At Berkadia, our success is built upon the talent and hard work of a broad, diversely skilled team. From graphic designers to loan closing specialists to product designers, each of our people brings a unique background, perspective and expertise. Their work allows Berkadia to remain a leader in the commercial real estate industry.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on with Divyesh Agrawal, Senior Manager, Servicing Operations, who sits in our Hyderabad, India office, to learn more about how innovation is driving change, the importance of cultivating the next generation of CRE leaders and what advice he’d give his younger self.
How would you describe your role at Berkadia? What part of your role are you most passionate about?
My role is to support the Credit Administration and Client Relations groups of the India Operations and represent these functions for our clients, vendors, and other stakeholders. What drives me is participating in site-level projects, programs and strategic initiatives.
I’m passionate about serving and guiding the next generation of leaders by sharing the knowledge and experience I have gained throughout the years. What I find extremely gratifying is upholding the beautifully woven values driven, Berkadia Way culture that I am very proud of, as it shapes me as an individual and professional.
What drew you to Berkadia? Did you choose CRE or did CRE choose you?
I was not aware of Berkadia as an organization. A couple of my collegemates had joined Berkadia and they encouraged me to apply for a role with a testimony of the amazing learning experience they were having in just a couple of months of joining the firm. I was nervous during the hiring process but the interviewers at Berkadia made it such a comfortable, engaging and respectful conversation that I accepted the job eagerly and whole-heartedly. Ultimately, CRE chose me.
How has your time at Berkadia helped to accelerate your personal or professional development?
I have been fortunate to get exposure on multiple product types and servicing functions. This has provided me with a better background of the industry and to develop as a finance professional. Personally, and consequently professionally, the Berkadia Way approach to develop an outward mindset has had a profound impact on me. I have learned a way of life at Berkadia which will propel me always.
What is the biggest current challenge for CRE professionals in your sphere, and where are you seeing opportunities right now? What has surprised you recently?
The CRE industry is undergoing a much required and major evolution by leveraging innovation in every aspect of the deal lifecycle. As CRE professionals, identifying and capitalizing on these opportunities is not just a challenge but imperative to sustain. Berkadia is taking the reins in leading this digital disruption that is unlocking countless opportunities for its customers and employees. I am amazed by the groundbreaking advancements happening in transforming, or automating, aspects that were inconceivable earlier, like virtual property inspections and tours.
What advice would you give to a younger version of yourself coming into the CRE industry? What is the best advice you have received?
I would tell my younger self to nurture and develop an insatiable hunger for learning. CRE is an interesting industry with limitless possibilities. The work we do makes a real meaningful impact on the lives and success of our clients. We are fortunate to have inspiring leaders and knowledgeable powerhouses at Berkadia that present opportunities to learn and give back. I once received advice to try to make an everlasting impact and be a valuable contributor for the organization. This meant that I should always keep on expanding my industry and domain knowledge, irrespective of how high I keep growing in leadership responsibilities.
I strongly believe in and encourage everyone to challenge oneself constantly and become a better version of yourself. No matter what profession you are in or what drives you, there is always an ocean of knowledge you can explore and that is the only way we can truly grow.