Renée Auer and Wendy McNeil Women of the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer The Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association (GVHBA) has grown since 1974 to be the largest local association in B.C. Renée Auer and Wendy McNeil are members of the dynamic team, delivering serv- ices and providing support to more than 700 association members. As director of membership and sales, Auer uses her marketing background, business skills and re- lationship building abilities to attract members to the association and then ensures they remain as satis- fied members for the value and at- tention they receive. “I’ve been with the association 12 years, starting as member devel- opment co-ordinator,” Auer said. “Over the years I evolved the posi- tion, added responsibilities that met with my interests, such as on the IT side.” When she applied for the posi- tion, Auer says she had all the skills it required, except industry experi- ence. “I believe there isn’t anything you can’t learn if you want to. Those first six months I was producing but also learning as much as I could and I continue to learn today.” McNeil started her career with the association in 2001. She applied her education in psychology and marketing management but also lacked specific industry experience. “I started as co-ordinator of spe- cial projects and membership and evolved and changed my role with time,” McNeil said. “I have always found people both within the asso- ciation and in the industry to be helpful and respectful. People want you to succeed in your role because that helps them succeed. You also need a passion for learning, espe- cially if you are unfamiliar with the industry.” Auer says the ability to network, taking ownership of her role and re- sponsibilities and the ability to work as part of a small team – doing whatever needs to be done and working as part of a team – has been important. McNeil says adaptability, acces- sibility and problem solving skills are also important. The GVHBA is always working to provide added value to members, which requires flexibility and cre- ative thinking. Auer has noticed for instance a lot of flux in membership with older members passing along family businesses to next genera- tions. “The new business owners often have a lot of new ideas but may not have experience on the business side.” To meet the demands, the asso- ciation develops short workshops and seminars throughout the year to teach basic business skills including estimating and people management skills, designed to meet the time constraints and immediate educa- tional needs of business owners. Auer says she thoroughly loves her job and the value she brings to members. “There is only one other home builders’ association in Canada that has a dedicated mem- bership person on staff. The value this position brings to members – having someone focused solely on them – is both rewarding and impor- tant.” ————————— Continued on page 47 Renée Auer Wendy McNeil The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Summer 2014 – 45