Quest has been a proud supporter of TEMi for over a decade, supporting professional development initiatives including webinars, forums and major events.
The Quest team also supports our community through the TEMi Expert Mentor program, offering guidance in their field of expertise to TEMi Talent Members, as well as mentorship to junior practitioners.
Pictured below is Farah Mehrudeen, one of many Quest team members you can reach out to if you are interested in learning more about corporate accommodation, or mentorship within the TEMi community.
Farah specialises in the Health, Retail, Finance and the Automotive sectors. We recently interviewed her to find out what corporate accommodation trends she’s seeing in these sectors. Read on for her insights.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself
Farah: Hi, my name is Farah Mehrudeen, and I am a National Account Executive at Ascott Australia based in Melbourne. In my portfolio I cover a vast range of industries and locations nationally, including, Health, Retail, Finance and the Automotive sectors. Within these sectors, I often see a need for mobility services with clients relocating to new cities, regional locations and even countries.
Having previously had a background in mobility relocations services, I understand the need for extended stay accommodation and the impact it can have on employee experience. Part of my role is to understand the specific challenges and impacts in the industries I work with and see how I can provide my clients with the support they need to look after their employees. I really enjoy being able to provide support and solutions to our key stakeholders.
Q: What trends are you currently seeing in the Health, Retail, Finance and the Automotive sectors regarding long stay corporate accommodation needs?
Farah: There is a growing demand for flexible and tailored long-term accommodation. In Health, there’s an increase in relocations for healthcare professionals needing extended stays, often requiring comfort and convenience in key required areas.
Retail brands expanding into new regions or undertaking shop fit-outs are also relocating employees for training or projects, with a focus on making employees feel at home.
In Finance, employees in leadership or specialised roles are being relocated for projects, leading to a demand for accommodations with both work and leisure amenities. The shift to remote work is also influencing Finance, with a preference for accommodations that support work-life balance.
In the Automotive sector, global operations and supply chain demands are driving the need for serviced apartments. Companies prioritise accommodations that offer comfort and convenience, with easy access to amenities for relocating employees, enhancing their overall experience during assignments and relocation.
Q: What are the key factors that corporate clients in your sector are looking for when choosing accommodation for their employees who are relocating or teams working on long stay projects?
Farah: When clients choose accommodation for relocating employees, key factors include location proximity to the new work site and access to amenities that support a smooth transition. While cost and budget are important, they are weighed alongside service, quality, safety, client feedback, and available amenities, ensuring a smooth and positive experience for employees.
Corporates are increasingly focusing on their ESG credentials by partnering with accommodation providers that prioritise sustainable practices. This approach supports the rising demand for environmentally responsible solutions and helps them achieve their sustainability goals.
Q: How do you build and maintain long-term relationships with clients in these sectors in such a competitive market?
Farah: Maintaining long-term relationships relies on providing value and solutions that meet client needs. I regularly connect with clients to provide updates and gain insights into their challenges, which enables us to offer effective support and build trust. By concentrating on solutions and proactively addressing challenges, we nurture a strong, solution-oriented relationship with our clients.
Q: What advice would you give to Talent Mobility Specialists when sourcing long-stay accommodation for employees?
Farah: When sourcing long-stay accommodation for employees, it’s essential to approach the process with empathy and understanding. Consider the individual’s needs and what will make them feel comfortable and at home in a new location. Always ask yourself: “Would I feel comfortable here if I were in their shoes?”
At our Quest and Ascott properties, we focus on delivering a unique, supportive experience, ensuring guests receive the comfort and personalized care they deserve throughout their stay. Our staff is always ready to assist, providing the attention and service needed to make each stay as seamless as possible.
Connect with Farah on LinkedIn
