Head of Network Performance, Stephen Mutton, congratulated Michael Ziegler and Melissa Burtt on the success of LJ Hooker Devonport.
The Announcement:
Just three years after opening, LJ Hooker Devonport has taken out the prestigious title of Business Owners of the Year at the network’s annual Night of the Stars Awards.
The office credited its dedicated staff for its outstanding contribution to the iconic real estate brand at the black-tie event recently held in Melbourne.
It was the first awards ceremony in LJ Hooker’s annual Night of the Stars, a series of awards ceremonies in each state that recognise and celebrate the network’s top performers.
Co-owners Michael Ziegler, Principal, and Melissa Burtt, Director, were thrilled to win the coveted award.
They opened their office just six months before the Covid-19 pandemic and in a short time have doubled staff numbers and created a new rent roll of 162 properties.
They are now planning on opening an additional office in Ulverstone.
“Winning Business Owners of the Year was a complete surprise – we are blown away and overwhelmed,” Mr Ziegler said.
“We were very proud that our hard work has been recognised by the LJ Hooker network across both Tasmania and Victoria.
“While we have won the award as business owners, it also reflects our amazing team who are incredibly passionate and diligent.”
General Manager Network Australia, Stephen Mutton, congratulated Mr Ziegler and Ms Burtt on the success of LJ Hooker Devonport.
“Michael and Melissa have a formidable partnership and created an office that delivers a high standard of service to their clients, supports its staff and has grown the business with a focus on data management,” he said.
“This award recognises the contribution made to the LJ Hooker Group, to their own business and the community. LJ Hooker Devonport has been fully engaged in all training events and they are always on the lookout for how to change and succeed.”
The return of the LJ Hooker brand to Devonport follows the tragic passing of former principal Kim Dougan who was killed in a motorbike accident in 2012.
Mr Ziegler had been scheduled to join the agency which was then sold to another franchise.
Eight-years later, together with Ms Burtt, they decided to bring Australia’s most iconic real estate brand back to the northern Tasmanian township.
Ms Dougan’s daughter, Kayla Traill, has joined their team as a property manager along with former staff member, Tennille Tueon.
“It is wonderful to have the connection with the original LJ Hooker Devonport and that also makes winning this award special,” Mr Ziegler said.
“The mantra of Sir Leslie Hooker has always resonated with us – that real estate is about people and not just property. We are aiming to do real estate differently with a focus on customer service and providing support for our staff.”
Source: LJ Hooker Group
