Tanya moved to NYC in mid-2015 with her husband Lee, who is also her business partner. The couple moved from Perth, where they still operate their IT company Royal IT, to launch their business in New York because they wanted to expand overseas.
Where do you live? Why did you choose that area?
Financial District. I love it because we across the road from the Battery Park and the river. It’s close to several subway stations and there is so much history and charm to the area.
Any advice for people moving to NY?
Study up on the process with renting. It can be confusing and frustrating if you are not organized and educated.
What do you do?
I lead the Operations at Royal IT in NYC. We are a boutique IT support and consulting company.
As a professional working in NYC, what are the differences to working in Australia?
Hustling much harder. A lot more networking is needed to develop solid relationships, and I also work longer hours.
What’s the biggest challenge or road block you’ve faced in NYC and how do you overcome it?
Launching a business from scratch is a very challenging task. Especially when you are only new to the country and city. There were so many lessons and learnings and it required a huge amount of strength and resilience.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given about living/working in NYC?The best way to grow the business and client base is to get out the door and meet people. Developing relationships and a strong network is critical.
Any advice for other professionals working in NYC?
Never give up. This city can have a way of breaking you down many times, but use it as an opportunity to grow. Also, it’s important in such a busy city to take time out for yourself, whether it’s a walk or reading a book. Downtime is important.
What do you like/dislike about living in NY?
I love that I never get bored, there are always so many things to do and see.
I dislike the winter – it’s far too cold and long.
What’s your ‘only in New York’ moment/s?
I was one of the judges at the Nathan’s Famous Hotdog Eating Contest in 2017. It was such a crazy experience, I am still in disbelief that the male winner ate 72 hotdogs in 10 minutes.
Three words to describe New York:
- Expansion
- Opportunity
- Intriguing
If you didn’t live in NYC, you would stay the night at…
The Williamsburg Hotel – just out of the city.
Favorite NYC brunch spot
Tiny’s in Tribeca.
What are your top 3 tips for friends visiting NYC?
Get all the touristy things out of the way in the first few days and then take time to explore each neighborhood. So many hidden gems!
Venture over to Williamsburg for the day or hire bikes and ride around Central Park.
Who are some Aussie ladies doing awesome things in NYC who are currently on your radar?
I always look up to good leaders such as Belinda Jackson, the president at AWNY who does a fantastic job. All of my Aussie girlfriends are doing awesome things and I love hearing their stories and updates on how they are progressing with their careers in NYC.
What things do you do to keep home sickness under control?
I skype my Mum once a week. Go back to Perth at least once a year. Surround myself with great company here in NYC.
What are your favorite ways to connect with Aussie culture in NYC?
Hang out with fellow Aussies regularly
Grill (BBQ)
Grab a coffee at Bluestone
Eat at Two Hands in Tribeca and the Australian Bar
What do you like about being part of AWNY?
I love meeting follow Aussies and getting involved in a range of different activities. I have also enjoyed being part of the Charity team and working on the annual Fall Gala event in support of The Dwelling Place of NYC.
AWNY | Australian Women in New York 