Chapter 135: Hannah's Business Acumen
In the Cooper Group sales department conference room, Hannah sat at the head of the table, flanked by the sales manager, supervisors, and key employees. She glanced around the room, her gaze settling on Mary.
Mary, along with Roger and Wayne, had recently taken bereavement leave following Jane's death. Her leave was still technically ongoing, yet she was already back at work. Their eyes met, and Mary quickly explained, "My sister's funeral is over. Staying home only makes me sadder, so I came back early. Perhaps busy work will help me cope."
Hannah nodded curtly, offering little response. Mary, sensing Hannah's distant demeanor, felt compelled to guess at her thoughts. Hannah's recent forceful dismissal of Mason Porter and Maxwell Watson had sent shockwaves through the company. No one anticipated these influential figures would be compelled to resign. Maxwell, a company shareholder, was now relegated to receiving dividends only, excluded from decision-making.
Mary's father, upon hearing this news, had been distraught. Roger, who had previously cultivated Maxwell's support for a top leadership position, was particularly incensed by his abrupt and unceremonious dismissal. He felt it unacceptable.
But the situation was irreversible. Roger, along with Mary and her brother, had arrived at the office early, fearing Hannah would seize control during their absence. They were determined to prevent Hannah from consolidating her power and wresting control of Cooper Group from their family.
Mary, arriving at the building that morning, saw Hannah and Oscar alight from a car. She hesitated before approaching, momentarily captivated by Oscar's striking appearance. His reputation had previously been less than stellar, overlooked by discerning women of his social circle. However, his marriage to Hannah seemed to have elevated his status, eclipsing even Charles' reputation. Charles' wedding scandal had dealt a significant blow to his image and adversely affected the Sawyer family's stock. In Mary's eyes, Charles now paled in comparison to the charismatic Oscar. Despite a past fondness for Charles, Mary's feelings were now…complicated. She gritted her teeth. The evident affection between Oscar and Hannah that morning, unmistakable and genuine, ignited a pang of jealousy. Mary couldn't understand Hannah's seemingly effortless success, her privileged life, so starkly contrasting with her own.
"Today's meeting addresses sales issues, focusing on two projects," Hannah announced, her voice commanding attention. "The abandoned 'Huatan' subdivision and the Light Building acquisition."
The room fell silent.
"Let's begin with the 'Huatan' subdivision," Hannah continued. "We contracted Radiazer Construction, a previous partner, but the owner absconded with funds, leaving the police with no leads. The site is now abandoned. However, its prime location in Kensbury City makes completion highly lucrative. The construction company's disappearance derails our plans, impacting this year's sales turnover. I will propose alternative plans to the board to ensure the project proceeds. Everyone should be prepared to commence marketing immediately."
Hannah's words were met with rapt attention.
"The Light Building presents a more significant challenge," she stated. "Rose, what's the current status?"
Rose stepped forward, presenting slides displayed on a screen. "The building's completed, a twelve-story structure with nearly 1,000 units. Currently, only 20% are occupied, with less than 130 operating profitably. Many have closed due to significant losses and will terminate their contracts. Cooper Group invested two billion, yielding only 20 million, resulting in a loss of 1.88 billion. Our plan projected recouping expenses within three years, with a 30% profit margin within five, a total revenue of 2.6 billion. The current situation makes this impossible."
Rose concluded her report.
Hannah turned from the screen. "Which department handled investment and business acquisition for this project?"
"Group A," Mann, the manager, responded.
"Why this dismal performance?" Hannah asked.
Mann explained, "The project faced challenges. First, large-scale residential demolitions and a cancelled subway station negatively impacted customer traffic. Second, our aim to create Kensbury City's premier high-end mall attracted few first-line luxury brands. This 'butterfly effect' dissuaded other brands. Third, high construction costs resulted in high rental rates, deterring many potential tenants."
Hannah nodded. "Mann, I'll accompany you this afternoon."
"Understood," Mann replied.
"I'll assign tasks and set our goals," Hannah declared, her tone firm and unwavering. The room was completely attentive, awaiting her instructions.