Suggestions
Simone Skopek Pertuiset
Technical Writer, Editor, Novelist
Simone Skopek Pertuiset is a well-known figure in the corporate real estate field, renowned for her expertise in energy efficiency, sustainability, and workplace productivity.
She has been instrumental in creating innovative programs and software solutions, such as JLL's SMART, GREEN+PRODUCTIVE WORKPLACE™ program and 4SIGHT resilience platform for portfolios, aimed at optimizing energy usage, improving workspace efficiency, and fostering human connection.
Simone's latest book, 'SMART GREEN + PRODUCTIVE WORKPLACE – A PRACTICAL DESK COMPANION FOR CORPORATE REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS,' has been highly recommended by industry experts for its insights into the environmental, social, and economic benefits of green corporate real estate practices.
With a background in B.Ed from McGill University, Simone has held various roles in organizations like APPA Leadership in Educational Facilities, Jones Lang LaSalle's Energy and Sustainability, and Public Safety Canada, showcasing her diverse skill set and knowledge in areas like content management, technical writing, energy management, and emergency communications.
Simone Skopek Pertuiset's work is recognized for its focus on well-being, sustainability, and productivity, making her a sought-after professional in the field of corporate real estate and energy management.
Highlights
Rethinking Carbon Neutrality on Campuses Carbon neutrality commitments have surged in US higher education, with 800+ campuses at the forefront. Yet, achieving net carbon neutrality goes beyond Scope 1, 2, and 3 reductions and typically involves purchasing carbon offsets. This article which appears in APPA’s Leadership in Educational Facilities Management Newsletter explores the challenges, strategies, and their alignment (and misalignment) with the national decarbonization agenda, amid concerns over reliance on accounting-based instruments.
CONDENSED RECENT AUTHOR INTERVIEW BY BOOK BLOGGER HEATHER BARKSDALE (heatherlbarksdale.com)
WHAT INSPIRED 'MANET AND THE LION HUNTER? ~ The idea stemmed from Edouard Manet's painting featuring 19th-century lion hunter Eugene Pertuiset, who was an ancestor. The painting played a pivotal role in Manet's career and the modern art movement. Exploring newspapers of the era, I was captivated by the technological and cultural revolution of the era, misconceptions about “taming” nature, colonialism, and the famous eccentric characters of the time.
ANYTHING YOU'D LIKE YOUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AND YOUR WRITING PROCESS? ~Growing up in the pre-internet era, we had little information about the lion hunter. However, exploring digitized 19th-century newspapers later unveiled him as a media darling and celebrity. His unique friendship with Manet stood out. This lighthearted novel, intertwining art, eccentricity, and adventure, became a delightful journey of research and storytelling. The mystery around the lion hunter's character and Manet's portrait added intrigue, creating a joyful exploration of art, eccentricity, fame, resilience, and joie de vivre
MOVIE CASTING DREAMS? ~ That would be a dream! Imagining an adaptation, I'd choose Johny Depp, Ricky Gervais, or Jason Sudeikis (from 'Ted Lasso') for their comedic talent and ability to portray charming eccentric characters, aligning with the lion hunter's essence.
HOW DO YOU COMBAT WRITER'S BLOCK? ~ I didn't encounter writer's block while working on this novel; everything seamlessly fell into place because the historical research laid a solid foundation for the elements of a novel: character development, a robust story arc, action, and themes of art, eccentricity, fame, and friendship unfolded almost effortlessly. While not an issue for this novel, in general, stepping away and engaging in a different productive activity helps reset the mind and recharge creativity - in my case, activities like baking, purging a closet, or working on a technical writing project.
ANY TIPS FOR ASPIRING AUTHORS? ~ Acknowledge the importance of marketing, especially in self-publishing. For me, the most uncomfortable aspect of marketing is social media – a universe I am not at ease with. However, I enjoy writing blogs, newsletters, and connecting with book bloggers and a supportive community of writers. Seeking honest reader and blogger reviews is a gratifying and informative experience.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE GENRE? ~ I appreciate 'well-researched, true stories well told.' Narratives must be thoroughly researched, well-written, and engaging without sacrificing the integrity of the research. This is the standard I strive to achieve in my own work.
ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS? ~ Two historical creative non-fiction projects are in progress. Also practicing audio book narration. Fun but not for the faint of heart.
