YONKERS, NY—Former Manhattan Assistant District Attorney turned real estate executive Ayall Schanzer has been named president and CEO of Friedland Realty Advisors and will lead the rebranding and new direction for the 40-year old commercial real estate firm.

Before taking the helm at the former NAI Friedland, Schanzer also served as the Chief Strategy Officer of Salient Management Co. Schanzer will oversee its strategic direction and day-to-day operations. Company officials say he has already begun investing in the company's technology infrastructure, revitalizing its training program, and growing the company's ranks by recruiting top brokers.

The rebranded Friedland Realty Advisors announced Schanzer's appointment today. “Ayall Schanzer is the ideal leader to take Friedland to the next level,” says Bob Friedland, chairman of Friedland Realty Advisors. “His acumen and business intelligence are already charting a successful new course for our team of expert brokers.”

“I'm thrilled to join the Friedland team, and eager to build upon our 40 year record of success, renewing our commitment to bringing the best results to our clients,” Schanzer says. “Westchester and the surrounding real estate markets are poised for tremendous growth, and Friedland is in the vanguard.”

The firm has begun enhancing operating efficiencies and deepening its relationship with its various stakeholders, the company states. In the months ahead, Friedland will be upgrading its technology assets to better showcase its properties and aid the tenants, investors and communities the brokerage serves. Friedland Realty Advisors is also actively recruiting top talent to aid in its expansion.

Friedland, which has a main focus on industrial, retail and office properties, has facilitated a number of notable recent deals, including the relocation of tenants from the Citi Field redevelopment area in Queens, and the leasing of Citizen Watch Co.'s first global flagship store in Times Square.