"I am looking forward to working with the national management team and the successful real estate group in Chicago, and to further grow Avison Young's presence in the Chicago and global marketplace," McKiernan says. "I am very impressed by Mark Rose's vision for global expansion and his focus on a differentiated client service model. The company and its brand are well-positioned for accelerated growth, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to be a principal in a private company that has a strong ownership structure, a continuing growth agenda and an enviable track record of providing quality real estate services."

McKiernan's responsibilities in his new role at Avison Young will include management of the Chicago office, recruitment of additional professionals, and direct client service. McKiernan began his real estate career two decades ago as an industrial broker with Grubb & Ellis, and went on to serve as sales manager of the Chicago/O'Hare offices, executive VP and area manager of the Great Lakes Region, and president of the eastern region. Before beginning work with Grubb in 1989, McKiernan worked in the publishing industry, having earned a BS in communications studies from Northwestern University.

"He is a results-oriented individual and his professional business profile and strong sales and management background will be instrumental in the success of the company's real estate activities in the Chicago marketplace," Mark Rose, chair and CEO of Avison Young, says. "The Chicago office marked Avison Young's first location outside of Canada, and the appointment of Michael represents another step in the company's expansion strategy to continually add new dimensions and resources to the company and to grow beyond Canadian borders. Our goal is to continue providing first-rate services to our clients by recruiting the best in our business."