Ashleigh Mavros

Meet Ashleigh Mavros

What is your role at Avison Young?

I’m an Internal Communications Specialist on the global communications team.

How did you get into commercial real estate?

I’m still new to the CRE space as my marketing and communications background has been mostly spread across tech, higher-ed and CPG work. I was attracted to AY as it seemed like an incredible opportunity to carve out my role in a growing, agile organization.

Who has been the most influential woman in your life?

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the women in my family. My mother, aunts, and grandmothers were all incredibly strong, brilliant women that brought out the best in me. They not only taught me how to be fearless and to speak up for myself, but also showed me how to lead with empathy and kindness. I’m especially thankful for the intense focus my mother and grandmothers placed on my education. Both my grandmothers grew up on dairy farms and while they were at the top of their high school class, they never had the opportunity to attend college. Both grandmas never missed an academic award ceremony or graduation of mine and would be disappointed if there was anything other than A’s on the report card. As a first-gen college student, I’m appreciative of the endless support my mother provided when choosing a college and figuring out financial aid. She encouraged me to attend Ohio University because of the renowned journalism program and today I’m a proud Bobcat alum who graduated with honors.

This year's IWD theme is Choose to Challenge. What do you choose to challenge or celebrate to help create more inclusion in your community?

I #ChooseToChallenge looking through an intersectional lens when it comes to women’s inequality and injustice. Solely considering white, middle-class, able-bodied women will fail to achieve equality for all women.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I’m oddly obsessed with the Fast and the Furious movie franchise. I’d rather read a book than watch TV in my free time, but I’ve watched those movies so many times I’ve lost count.

What women’s organizations would you recommend other women get involved with?

I’ve always found value in mentorship programs, both as a mentor as well as a mentee. I’m a Chicago Scholars mentor for high school students and I’m continuously inspired by their ambitions and ideas. I had some incredible mentors early on in my career, so it only feels right to pay it forward.