Welcome back to REA, Sunday Hyatt

After a few years away, Sunday Hyatt has found herself walking back through REA Group's doors - this time with fresh eyes, new skills, and plenty of enthusiasm. From 2018 to 2021, Sunday worked in a number of Team Assistant roles across Melbourne and Sydney, supporting leaders in Product & Technology, Corporate Affairs, and PropTrack. She has recently returned to REA ready to reconnect with colleagues, embrace the new pace of work (hello, AI!), and dive back into the culture she'd really missed.

We sat down with Sunday to hear more about her experience returning to REA.

Sunday, what are you most excited about now that you're back at REA?

The people are one of the things that make REA what it is, working alongside so many talented and motivated people is really inspiring. Working as an assistant here allows you to experience different aspects of the business and gives you opportunities to get involved in a variety of projects along the way so that's something I'm reallyexcited about.

With your time away from REA, what did you miss? Did you discover any new skills or perspectives that you're excited to bring back to your role at REA?

During the five years I spent away from REA, I expanded my skillset by working as an Executive Assistant at two fantastic companies. After that, I decided to take a refresh and worked in disability support, as well as managing an Australian-owned independent jewellery label. I really enjoyed the change of pace, and it's made coming back to REA with fresh eyes genuinely exciting. What I missed most was coming into the office and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds, ways of thinking,and skillsets.

How would you describe your experience at REA?

I've been lucky to work in a role that I truly enjoy and find very satisfying. My role is all about supporting my leader and their team to be as effective and efficient as possible. Equally important is having a supportive manager behind me to help set me up for success and growth within my role. I'm grateful to have that support here at REA.

Does anything stand out to you as being different now to your last experience with us?

One of the biggest differences I've noticed is how much more connected and efficient things feel. AI tools have advanced in leaps and bounds since I was last at REA, and they're helping us in numerous ways. I'm still getting used to and adapting to these changes, as they're reshaping the way we work.

Are there any personal or professional goals you've set for yourself since your return to REA?

Since returning to REA Group, one of my professional goals has been to streamline our team's processes so day-to-day operations run more smoothly and efficiently. I'm also focusing on building strongworking relationships across different teams, as this helps me anticipate needs and provide better support. Personally, I'm a keen fitness bean and have been training for triathlons over the last 12 months. I took part in the REA Corporate Teams Triathlon last year raising money for Launch Housing, and it's got me buzzing to do another!

Any tips you can share on how you made your return back to REA? How did you start the conversation?

I was approached by my now manager about an opportunity at REA Group that had arisen and asked whether I would be interested in returning to my previous role. After some consideration, I decided to take the leap. Being a 'boomerang,' as they say, has been fabulous so far! I'd be lying if I said I wasn't slightly nervous-mostly about how I'd fit back in and whether I'd quickly get up to speed. However, from day one re-entering the Church St office, I felt completely at home and welcomed back with open arms. It's been wonderful reconnecting with familiar faces, while also meeting a new network of REA colleagues and building friendships along the way.

Sunday's return is a reminder that sometimes the best next step is stepping back into something you know - especially when you're bringing fresh perspectives and a heap of energy. REA Group might have changed a bit since she was last here, but the collaborative spirit and strong relationships that first drew her in are still going strong. With career goals lined up, a triathlon in her diary, and a real drive to support her team, Sunday's story is just getting underway.