What are the qualities of a good leader? In ordinary, pre-COVID-19 times, the answer would be easy. A sense of responsibility. The willingness to put the needs of the company, employees and customers front and center. Compassion. Smarts.
In the midst of a pandemic these qualities are just as important but it quickly becomes clear that other traits are perhaps even more important. The ability to lead when visibility into the future is cloudy and uncertain. Soothing and instilling confidence in those around you when you are feeling as frightened as everyone else. Grace under pressure.
When we first started sifting through the numerous entries for our Best Bosses nominations, the pandemic had begun. As we watched companies struggle to find their sea legs in this new normal, it gave us a front row view into how true leaders act during a crisis. We are confident that the men and women on the following pages meet this new criteria and then some.
KAREN BENOIT Kidder Mathews Over the course of her more than 30-year career at Kidder Mathews, Karen Benoit has contributed to the firm’s dramatic growth, by building a team of creative professionals and nearly doubling the firm’s locations and revenues in recent years. As SVP of marketing, Benoit oversees brand strategy and improves visibility and online presence through ad campaigns, websites and social media. She has launched and directed four re-brand campaigns for the company within the past 15 years. She is known as an individual who is full of company pride, as the firm’s growth and numerous accolades are often attributed to her optimistic leadership. As a well-respected professional and a known champion for employees, Benoit displays relentless advocacy and a passionate commitment to the success of others. She ensures that the work her team executes remains meaningful, by always explaining the “why.” Consistently striving to do what is right for all involved stakeholders, she inspires through example and teaches how to handle each situation with integrity and class. With a wealth of industry knowledge and strong interpersonal skills, she serves as a voice of reason at the firm, through her rational approach to problem solving. Setting a high-bar for her team to produce best-in-class products and services, she is able to flawlessly envision change, implement initiatives, evaluate circumstances and adapt plans accordingly, while fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Ensuring a positive and enjoyable work environment where employees are able to express themselves, she successfully instills the balance of work hard, play hard. She remains committed to helping each individual grow within their role and their profession.
THOMAS BISACQUINO NAIOP Thomas Bisacquino has served as the president and CEO of NAIOP since 1991. Within the role, he oversees the strategic direction of the association on behalf of its more than 20,000 members. As the organization’s primary media contact, Bisacquino has proven critical in advancing NAIOP’s industry role through its political action committee, while speaking frequently regarding longstanding issues and legislative priorities. While enhancing NAIOP’s bottom line, Bisacquino has secured many successes within his position. Well-respected by the entire membership, he continually provides a level of certainty by navigating each issue with assurance. Keeping a finger on the pulse of NAIOP’s membership, he frequently visits the association’s various chapters across North America to meet with members and participate in events. Involved in every aspect of the association as an effective and efficient leader, he is able to drive the organization forward while ensuring relevance within the industry. Known as an exceptionally approachable CEO, he constantly engages with staff while employing a people-first approach to business. Setting a tone of trust and respect, he has established an encouraging and entrepreneurial culture for the organization, where staff is empowered to propose new concepts and offer feedback. Treating each member of the staff equally while interfacing with all audiences, he utilizes a successful combination of strategic and tactical skills in order to offer knowledgeable guidance. Each staff member’s professional growth, as well as the organization’s low turnover rate, are often attributed to Bisacquino’s confidence in each individual. He cares for his employees on a professional and personal level, serving at various times as a boss, counselor, friend and cheerleader. He spurs innovation through his personable, fair leadership style, while guiding the association with a steady hand to ensure longevity and resiliency.
JOANN BLAYLOCK LMC JoAnn Blaylock established LMC’s property management division, LMC Living, upon joining the firm in 2014. With more than 25 years of multifamily management experience, Blaylock serves as president of the group, which has grown from three associates to 300 under her leadership. Playing an integral role in the firm’s rapid growth, Blaylock works to protect and promote the company’s culture while implementing sound leadership practices. Quick to embrace new ideas, she empowers her department to suggest new projects and offer differing opinions, while encouraging collaboration among teams and divisions. As a champion for her employees and a strong advocate for work-life balance, she invests in the personal and professional growth of each of her associates by providing invaluable professional development, as well as emotional support. Inspiring each staff member to work harder, she has created an opportunistic culture for associates to grow. Serving as a mentor, teacher, leader and confidant, she has assisted in the advancement of many employees’ careers by helping identify and cultivate individual strengths, while ensuring each associate feels valued and appreciated. Leading as a support system, rather than just a boss, she challenges each associate for the sake of growth and development. Described as a tough, decisive and fearless leader, Blaylock leads with grace and compassion towards people. She shies away from the spotlight in effort to give her team credit and showcase their specialties. She is never hesitant with praise and she is never afraid to roll up her sleeves and help with a project. Due to the invaluable professional lessons that she offers, numerous associates have followed her to various positions throughout her career to continuously benefit from her expertise. One associate claims, “Our careers are trusted with her guidance; our hearts better for having known her.”
STEVE BRAM George Smith Partners As one of eight principals at George Smith Partners, Steve Bram plays a critical role in leading the firm. He co-founded the company 35 years ago, shortly after he began his industry career. With extensive expertise in capital markets advisory, Bram offers guidance to clients and provides creatively structured financings. Having arranged more than $3 billion of financing across more than 200 transactions alongside his team, Bram stands out as an excellent mentor and a dedicated leader. Throughout his career he has gained decades of industry knowledge, which he taps into to mentor and groom young professionals as additions to the team. A testament to his management style and his consistency as a producer, Bram’s senior staff have remained by his side for more than 20 years. Inspiring his co-workers’ continued loyalty, he is known for treating everyone with respect while working towards the company’s collective goals. In representing the firm externally, his integrity and enthusiasm for the business shine through. He always searches for win-win opportunities; successfully accomplishing his personal goals while monitoring the big picture to ensure that everyone benefits. His management style showcases his impressive interpersonal skills, as well as his commitment to continued success. He deeply believes in his employees and serves as a skillful, charismatic mentor to all. His mentality to increase productivity proves beneficial to the firm’s staff, as well as its clients. Through constant efforts, Bram teaches by example while providing encouragement and imparting confidence in others to overcome challenges.
MICHAEL BRENNAN Brennan Investment Group The most notable and valued attribute of Michael Brennan, among colleagues and employees, is his ability to treat everyone with the exact same amount of fairness and respect. Able to relate to and appreciate each individual, across any level or industry, he is celebrated as a stand out quality for the executive. As co-founder, chairman and managing principal of Brennan Investment Group, Brennan serves as a self-proclaimed “player-coach,” a leader who directs from the sidelines, but does not hesitate to get into the action. Understanding that communication is key to employee engagement, Brennan makes it a point to visit and inquire with each department’s professionals, weekly, in office. In effort to offer complete transparency, he shares the company’s long-term goals, its philosophy, his economic forecast, market analysis and more, so that each professional has a clear vision and understanding of the company. He sets the tone and culture of the organization, while being extremely personable. As an inspiration for all, he leads the organization with strong work ethics, passion and boundless energy. He utilizes his industrial market expertise and takes time to educate his employees. Conducting work in a highly ethical manner every day, his influence among his staff is vast as his employees remain continually impressed by him. In addition to being personally involved throughout the ranks of his company, Brennan handles a current portfolio of 44 million square feet across 29 states. He ensures the drive of the company by fostering an open, friendly environment and instilling high expectations throughout. Brennan is described as genuine, approachable, easy-going, present and thoughtful. He intently welcomes new ideas while relentless in his desire to understand a deal or situation.
NICOLE CAPOBIANCO Greysteel Upon joining Greysteel in 2017 to lead to the transaction services support team, Nicole Capobianco was quickly promoted later that year to director, before being promoted to her current role of VP of transaction services in 2019. Capobianco was able to quickly rise through the ranks at the company due to her efforts and successes in driving growth and innovation. A proven motivator at the company, she has successfully streamlined processes and improved internal efficiency across the network to benefit clients. As a talented problem-solver, she creatively thinks outside of the box when generating a new system, and she has assisted in launching numerous nationwide projects for the firm. Always working with the utmost integrity, Capobianco is responsible for co-managing the corporate operations and transaction support functions of the company. Dedicated to her role at Greysteel, she is able to expertly leverage technology and informational insights to identify strategic opportunities. Clients and colleagues alike, appreciate her work ethic due to her continuous positive attitude, upbeat disposition and willingness to assist with any project. She continues to execute change that benefits everyone involved and she is known to work well with every personality. She creates seamless onboarding processes, personalized to each individual while offering a comprehensive look at the company. She collaborates well with team members and she often works hand-in-hand with various departments on projects to facilitate and manage production cycles. With the ability to provide constructive criticism, she has earned the trust of many by offering an ideal blend of facts and opinions, while maximizing productivity. Through an impressive approach to embracing change, she serves as a driving force behind many of Greysteel’s innovations within recent years.
TIFFANY ENGLISH Ware Malcomb Constantly igniting change, Tiffany English serves as a valued professional, a respected mentor and a champion for industry diversity. With experience spanning interior architecture, planning, design and management, English serves as Ware Malcomb’s first female designer to become principal. Responsible for business development and managing teams, she has grown the firm’s San Diego location to be a leading office in both size and revenue. Admired for her drive, passion, knowledge and quality interior design work, English holds the innate ability to collaboratively work with a team while using the strengths of each individual to improve client experience. Her leadership and dedication to her craft has earned herself and the firm numerous industry achievements. Dedicated to creating a more inclusive and diverse industry, English was recently selected to serve as president-elect of CREW Network, and in 2021, she will become president of the organization. Generous with her time in helping others succeed, she is additionally involved with various mentor programs; providing ongoing coaching and thoughtful guidance to professionals. She exceeds at identifying individual capabilities and pulling out the best in people. As an accessible, solution-oriented leader, she consistently offers her full attention to her mentees for a complete learning experience. She “sets the gold standard in leadership;” challenging and supporting professionals as an avid advocate and a transparent and honest leader. She provides direction and offers her deep knowledge base while allowing individuals to work through issues and challenges in order to improve performance and develop expertise. A master at building trusted connections, she continues to equip future leaders with the critical skills they need for success.
MIKE GALLEGOS SVN | Desert Commercial Advisors, SVN | Imbrie Overseeing strategic expansion, recruitment, deployment, compliance, budgeting, training and mentoring, Mike Gallegos manages various SVN offices throughout the West Coast. He additionally serves as managing director for SVN Imbrie Realty in Portland, OR and SVN Desert Commercial Advisors in Phoenix, AZ. As a commercial real estate coach for the company, Gallegos develops and implements training modules to educate those entering the industry, while traveling to assist top level executives. As an “SVN Elite” program alum and a previous broker himself, he utilizes proven strategies and relates his past experiences to successfully recruit, train and coach top performers, managing directors and new brokers. He works with advisors to help them grow individually and as a team, providing valuable, constructive, in-person training. As a life-long learner, with various industry certificates earned through continued education, he is able to generate and communicate clear terms and examples to aid his mentees and drive an upward career trajectory. A valuable asset to the firm and its employees, he has been instrumental to the success of all SVN offices; securing a proven track record of increased performance levels. Upon the first full year of implementing his training practices, the firm’s advisors closed double when compared to the previous year. In addition, SVN’s gross commission earnings have increased throughout each of the four years that he has been with the firm. Under Gallegos’s leadership and training, professionals within his direct offices additionally continue to be recognized as top advisors across the entire SVN network. Through his selfless values and tireless work ethic, he takes time to understand individual challenges and works together to create solutions. While providing expert industry knowledge, he embodies the company culture through his constant positive attitude.
MELISSA GLIATTA Thor Equities Upon joining Thor Equities as VP in 2003, Melissa Gliatta has since risen through the ranks to her current position of COO, which she has held since 2016. Within her role, she works to expand the company’s global business activities while overseeing all operational functions across the US, Europe and Latin America. Her leadership skills have enabled her to cultivate an experienced team of dedicated professionals, whom she directs in initiatives across all asset classes. She has played an essential role to the company’s success in building its $20 billion portfolio, and she has proven instrumental in some of the firm’s most successful transactions. While leading the disposal of all retail properties, as the company shifted focus toward life sciences and logistics real estate, Gliatta has additionally, notably opened the door for female leadership at the firm. As an advocate and champion for women in the industry, she is consistent with her values as a role model, while involved in various female employment initiatives; providing guidance and advice in effort to equip women with the necessary skills needed to succeed in the workforce. Gliatta is also greatly appreciated by her team as a whole. She offers constant encouragement and displays endless confidence in her employees. She endorses an open-door policy; opting for a desk in an open layout environment, where she is accessible and approachable at all times. She challenges her team to take chances, while constantly reiterating that taking risks is the best way to learn. A generous, humble and professional leader, she exhibits an infectious enthusiasm toward her work at all times, instilling an undeniable, positive impact on the company’s culture.
ADAM HOOPER RealCrowd While transforming online investments processes, Adam Hooper carries his innovative thought-processes from executing business concepts to implementing internal policies for employees. Serving as the co-founder and CEO of RealCrowd, an online platform which grants ordinary investors direct access to capital market investments, Hooper additionally serves as the co-founder and CEO of ReAllocate, launched in 2019 as a fintech platform with access to professionally managed, risk-evaluated, real estate investments. Within these two positions, he guides each firm’s strategy and vision. He directs growth, ensures that all needs are met and sets the overall tone for the companies. Implementing improved processes through online platforms, he additionally holds a track-record for instilling novel practices within his companies. As a leader, Hooper constantly displays an uplifting attitude in the workplace and imparts the importance of work/life balance among employees. He recently instituted a four-day workweek for his staff in an effort to offer flexibility and strengthen productivity. Instilling his devotion to each employee’s well-being, he welcomes and values individual pursuits and integrates ideas into the company’s culture for diverse perspectives, while respecting the impact on the group. While pushing each team member to reach their highest potential, he is able to add humor into every employee interaction. Through his positive demeanor, he offers a refreshing and valuable perspective to each situation, regularly providing lighthearted support throughout the highs and lows of the market. In order for others to benefit and learn, he openly discusses his personal, past mistakes; continuously instilling to strive for excellence, not perfection. He embodies transparency and integrity and remains committed to propelling the firm forward.
ADAM KAUFMAN ArborCrowd As a true advocate for real estate crowdfunding, Adam Kaufman’s passion and commitment to the concept is exemplified and imparted on to his employees, thus improving internal motivation and processes. Merging technology and real estate investing, Kaufman acts as an authority on the matter. As the co-founder and COO of ArborCrowd, he launched the platform to open an exclusive network of deals and reach a wider group of individual investors; striving to make real estate investing further accessible. Deeply invested in advancing crowdfunding’s long-term viability, Kaufman oversees corporate growth strategies within his role. Promoting due diligence and responsibility, he operates ArborCrowd to invest in one deal at a time. One of Kaufman’s greatest qualities as an informed leader is his level headed approach to business. His consistent demeanor and even-keeled attitude are appreciated by his workforce, as it sets the tone and provides a surefooted foundation for his team to operate from. Acting with poise and determination, he cultivates an internal culture that embraces teamwork to solve problems. Fostering group learning and strong relationships, he solicits input, facilitates a range of viewpoints and considers all opinions before proceeding with a decision. Additionally, he avoids micro-managing and provides employees with the freedom to independently execute their jobs, display their strengths and take charge of their roles. He is described as a rare boss that cares about the work that needs to be done, as well as the person doing the work. His contagious and authentic belief in the potential for real estate crowdfunding to better the lives of countless individuals, continues to drive success for the firm and its employees.
SHARI KISSEE The Capital 8 Group Upon co-founding the Capital 8 Group, Shari Kissee assisted in growing the company from the ground-up, expanding to more than $88 million in purchases in seven years. With extensive professional experience in development financing, Kissee gained experience while working for high-profile companies such as JLL, the Voit Cos. and Microsoft. In her current role of managing principal, she oversees all finances for the firm, including all property sales and acquisitions. Executing financial due diligence, essential to the firm’s track record of positive returns, she additionally oversees legal matters and manages lender relations as well as formal quarterly and annual reports for investors. Extremely detail-oriented, she actively seeks and examines data and billing statements in order to identify trends and potential issues. Displaying extreme professionalism while committed to high-standards, she offers transparency while implementing internal processes, and diligently prepares her team members for a higher-level of work. She encourages each employee to reach their potential and achieve personal accomplishments. Though never attention-seeking, Kissee is well-known within the industry as an intelligent and insightful expert. Exhibiting kindness and respect to all, her clear communication and direction allows her workforce to work efficiently. Making a direct difference in her employees’ lives and work by welcoming advice and seeking individual opinions, she routinely holds company-wide meetings and discussions to impart the firm’s purpose and ensure that every voice is heard. Proven as an impactful leader through her great strength and successes, she flawlessly executes her work while embracing change to remain nimble. She continually brings out the best in people, while implementing her mission statement at the firm of “doing well by doing good (in the world).”
JOHN KOBIEROWSKI ABI Multifamily Serving as the heart and soul of ABI Multifamily, John Kobierowski acts as equal parts leader, advisor, cheerleader and chief culture officer. Within his role as senior managing partner, he oversees everything from payroll and taxes to recruitment and employee reviews. As a visionary, he spearheaded a cloud-based, technology system for the firm to streamline processes and offer a competitive advantage. In addition to prioritizing technology, he builds on the firm’s successful reputation to expand its footprint. Motivating, supportive, ethical, honest, dedicated, consistent and enthusiastic are just a few of the adjectives used to describe Kobierowski. His entrepreneurial vision enables his passionate, constant search for new creative projects to improve the company. Committed to an open-door policy, he engineered the purchase and renovation of the firm’s current headquarters; creating an open environment with zero employee-barriers or information-barriers. Offering further transparency and accessibility, Kobierowski recently provided all company brokers with access to his calendar, and asked for everyone to schedule coffee, lunch or happy hour meetings; granting the opportunity for a dedicated, open dialogue to further ensure that each member is receiving the necessary support to succeed. Due to his accessibility and the generous amount of time that he offers to his employees, he is able to instill trust in his team’s ability to deliver, because he understands each employee’s skills and strengths. He mentors all brokers and staff and encourages colleagues to learn and grow within their careers, as well as within their personal life. He enforces a healthy work/life balance which generates favorable results that are beneficial to employees and clients alike.
JEFF LEE Capital One Multifamily Finance Leading the multifamily lending business for Capital One, Jeff Lee serves as president of Capital One Multifamily Finance. Joining the firm in 2013, as part of the bank’s acquisition of Beech Street Capital, which Lee co-founded, he now manages the company’s portfolio platform and agency platforms, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHA. In his previous role of VP and head of underwriting and asset management for Capital One’s commercial real estate group, he played a key role in expanding the firm’s business nationally, while successfully overseeing a $46 billion portfolio and strengthening relationships with credit and market leaders. He successfully cultivated the group’s diverse leadership team, while dealing with the rapidly-evolving multifamily sector. He utilizes his entrepreneurial mindset and background to implement best practices and inspire his team of more than 200 professionals. He consistently works hard to improve and innovate operations and client services. In managing his team, he remains open to a wide range of ideas and notions, while leading by example. Displaying extreme trust and respect for his employees, he delegates leadership processes and regularly solicits feedback and suggestions. An enthusiastic, engaging boss, Lee clearly and consistently communicates his expectations. He offers insightful advice and ideas to his team members in a helpful, non-overbearing manner. While ensuring the success of Capital One Multifamily Finance as a business, he remains deeply concerned for his employees’ individual professional success within the company. His transparency allows his team to serve clients and perform at a superior level. Demonstrating an inspirational leadership model to all members of his team, his level-headedness and practicality additionally proves beneficial to clients.
ALISON LEWIS Newmark Knight Frank A member of Newmark Knight Frank’s executive leadership team, Alison Lewis serves as chief administration officer for the firm. Providing guidance and oversight on corporate strategy, shared services and office operations, Lewis works to improve company services for employees by identifying efficiencies and leveraging technology. She was responsible for the firm’s 2020 rebrand and digital transformation, and she led exponential growth for the firm by developing strategic human resource initiatives to address evolving needs. In addition to evaluating social responsibility and sustainable practices, Lewis strives to foster a value-based culture that accommodates employees’ needs. Placing an emphasis on professional development and promoting talent from within, she has successfully secured a stronger bottom line for the firm. Through her holistic approach, she recently restructured and built-out the firm’s national public relations platform, and also cultivated a new in-house, branding team. Within the industry, she holds a reputation as a champion for diversity. She strives to bring more women and people of color into the workforce through various initiatives and mentoring. As a highly effective leader, she executes a rare balance of straightforward, strong and authoritative communication, while being thoughtful, kind and approachable. She excels in recognizing and motivating great talent in effort to bring concepts to life. Her vision allows her to set bold goals, as she provides her team with the space and ability to grow and thrive. Through transparency, humility and strong emotional intelligence, she cares deeply about her employee’s success, and equally about their well-being. Always prepared to offer her candid feedback, she is upfront, genuine and strong in her convictions, while refusing to sweat the small things. She continues to yield ideal outcomes, while generating welcoming, inclusive atmospheres as a tangible contribution to the firm.
MITTI LIEBERSOHN Avison Young Responsible for business development, recruitment, increasing revenue and building strategic industry relationships at Avison Young, Mitti Liebersohn works to elevate the firm’s position within the New York City marketplace. With more than 35 years of experience in representing premier corporations in transactions totaling more than 30 million square feet, he has been instrumental in negotiating countless, complex, leasing transactions throughout his career. Recognized nationally as an accomplished industry professional, Liebersohn now serves Avison Young as president and managing director of the company’s New York City office. Under his leadership, the firm has grown from 70 professionals to more than 140 professionals. He lives and manages by a principle he refers to as ‘WARE,’ which stands for warmth, appreciation, respect and empathy. A philosophy appreciated by everyone, he instills this standard when dealing with each of his team members, clients and community. While promoting a culture of collaboration at the company, Liebersohn regularly holds staff meetings to help brokers focus on reaching their professional potential, as well as their financial goals. Communicating with all employees from entry-level associates to principals, he provides tips on how to become a better producer and he shares his expertise on how to pitch, win and negotiate deals. As a constant support system, he is generous with his time and employs an open-door policy. Striving for all team members to succeed, he sets high productivity expectations and goals within the office, while offering encouragement and motivation, as well as a dose of humor, to get the jobs done.
TOM LONDRES Metro Commercial A member of the Metro Commercial team since 1988, Tom Londres continues to position the company as a premier, full-service brokerage firm. As CEO and president, Londres oversees a team of 85 professionals across the entire company platform. Through his clear vision and communication, he has created a high-level, service-minded platform. He continually seeks to improve practices and guide company leaders in doing what is right for clients. He has implemented numerous beneficial initiatives and practices at the firm. He created a library of self-help, self-awareness and best practice books in each office location and encourages employees to read, learn and improve. He established and implemented 20 working mantras, identified as the Metro Fundamentals, which define and solidify the company’s culture and core principals, in an effort to guide high-performance and generate ideal work-life balance. He developed an internal on-boarding and training program for new agents, he spearheaded a corporate culture workshop, he hosts work events in and outside of the office, and he additionally offers employees perks, such as summer hours and a coffee bar. His efforts keep spirits high and enforce a positive environment to boost productivity. He also led the company in a complete rebrand to adapt to the evolution and direction of the industry. In setting the tone for the company, Londres makes a tremendous effort to be available to all employees. Eager to receive new ideas, thoughts and processes, he communicates with his team constantly on a professional and personal level. In addition to one-on-one conversations, he sends out weekly company-wide emails, regarding the week ahead. He has successfully created and maintained an extremely productive, yet enjoyable work environment for the company.
DANA JO MARTINO Berkadia Having served the industry for 30 years, Dana Jo Martino lives and breathes commercial real estate. Joining Berkadia in 2001, she serves as a member of the firm’s senior management. Holding the title of SVP of the servicing division, she oversees several loan administration teams. She is known as an expert who is always willing to offer sage advice, a helping hand, real estate knowledge and professional guidance. Eager to take on challenges and embrace change, Martino is never content with the status quo. She consistently seeks best practices and willingly spends countless hours educating herself on how the new processes work, to analyze and improve upon them. She relies upon and often learns from her team of experts, while mentoring them on interpersonal growth. She constantly looks for teachable moments through every question that arises so that she can impart her knowledge and benefit all involved parties. An extremely knowledgeable individual, she gladly shares her expertise and industry sources with anyone who asks. Setting aside what she needs to accomplish, she always finds time for others. Acknowledging the importance of recognizing her teams’ needs, she prioritizes one-on-one meetings with staff members. Her leadership style assists professionals in becoming more independent. Though always available and willing to help, she empowers team members to put in the work themselves and conduct research before coming to her. She empowers and motivates her team to achieve higher goals, while reminding them of their worth and value. While her leadership style is often mirrored by others, Martino additionally serves to mentor and encourage both young professionals and women within the industry by utilizing her existing network to find opportunities for inclusion, training and development.
KYLE MATTHEWS Matthews Real Estate Services In 2015, Kyle Matthews launched Matthews Real Estate Services as a solution to combat the dated practices of brokerage. Bringing change to the age-old industry, Matthews offers a fresh perspective through his dedication to innovation and creativity. As chairman and CEO, Matthews has cultivated a creative organizational structure and a successful company culture. Through every stage, the firm has experienced a more than 200% growth rate in both revenue and employees. Matthews implemented a clear, founding vision across each level of the organization, so that every employee and broker immediately understood their role. Currently overseeing the firm’s nationwide expansion, Matthews focuses on growing platform services to better position agents and provide best possible services. He shifts and adapts to industry changes while coaching his team to perform at the highest level. Aiming to help others succeed, he places a strong emphasis on career advancement within the company. Agents at the firm receive a tremendous amount of training through a two-year mentorship program and countless other resources. His leadership style is described as combining the tenacity of a founder with the guidance of a career manager. Matthews deeply cares about the success of others. He listens to his employees and constantly motivates them to push the envelope and create innovative strategies. Taking time to travel to the company’s numerous office locations, he communicates with employees across every area of the business. His management style is complimented by his emotional intelligence, as he strongly values each employees’ time, needs and opinions, while inspiring them to strive for exceptionalism, professionally and personally. He leads by example and serves his team with integrity, purpose, compassion and gratitude.
AMY MOYER Stan Johnson Co. Amy Moyer’s role within Stan Johnson Co. has evolved and grown alongside the firm throughout the past 16 years. Originally hired to lead the human resources division, Moyer was promoted to SVP of operations, appointed to the firm’s executive committee and invited to become a shareholder partner, all within last year. She has since been promoted to the position of managing partner. Throughout her time with the company, she has successfully overseen all departments across the corporate platform. She is widely respected throughout the company, and her management style and follow-through are deeply appreciated among employees. She can be counted on in times of crisis as a steadfast, professional companion. She supports the growth of every person that she works with by challenging them to take on responsibilities outside of their comfort zone. As a reliable leader, she holds herself and her team accountable, and has an incredible ability to manage and deliver projects and deadlines. Holding the company’s culture to its highest intentions, she empowers her team and trusts them with responsibility. She encourages her employees through coaching, mentorship and constant support, while providing the freedom to make decisions, develop ideas and implement new strategies. She shows up without hesitation and is always available and willing to offer a helping hand to ensure projects cross the finish line. An excellent communicator and a voice of reason, she regularly provides honest feedback. She serves as a key driver in bettering the firm through innovation. Constantly seeking meaningful ways to foster engagement, she is quick to embrace ideas that bring employees together across departments and across the country.
HOLLY NEBER AEI Consultants A truly talented culture-maker, Holly Neber is responsible for cultivating an atmosphere of integrity, respect and trust at AEI Consultants, while setting clear performance expectations, providing consistent guidance and connecting visions with daily tasks. As CEO of the firm, Neber personally embraces the culture and values that she has helped build and implement. She joined the firm as an entry-level project manager in 1999 and earned the position of CEO in 2016. Within her current role, she guides the firm’s revenue growth and increases its capabilities. She implements a workplace vision that cultivates meaning and connection for its employees, while recognizing that unique, individual contributions and strengths are essential to the company success. She continually introduces new services as a direct result of client feedback. As a strong leader, she motivates the team through positive reinforcement and enforces a collaborative environment in effort to value the input of each team member. Deeply committed to the professional development of each employee, she prides herself in learning as from her team, as they learn from her. Both technical and personable, she possesses a deep knowledge of industry trends and intricacies, while able to connect with professionals on a personal level. She executes her work with honesty and transparency and is always the first to celebrate the success of a team member. As a champion for diversity, Neber acts as a role model for building a culture of inclusion and support. In addition to serving as the president of CREW Network in 2019, she established an internal leadership program at the firm to offer female colleagues support and opportunities.
JAY OLSHONSKY NAI Global Jay Olshonsky is a true champion for his employees. As CEO and president of NAI Global, he executes his work and implements company practices with fairness and equality in mind. Driving deeply collaborative operations, he supports and directs the firm as a fellow team member. He asks for others’ opinions before providing his own, and he is always open to hear new ideas and suggestions. Within his position, which he has held since 2012, he is responsible for all operations at the company. He serves as a leader and a teacher; constantly educating staff on new technology, economic changes and more. Each day, he enters work with a smile on his face while greeting everyone. Cultivating a collaborative atmosphere, he refuses an office and instead sits in a cube, like everyone else. He engages in daily conversations and assists everyone in generating relationships. He manages the company in a hybrid-type fashion, ensuring that everyone has their hands in several projects. Constantly seeking ways to motivate his employees, he welcomes innovations and proposals across all departments. As a professional and personal mentor to employees, Olshonsky always allows younger professionals to take on big responsibilities. Furthermore, he is a large advocate for diversity. He strongly prioritizes diversity efforts within the office to support all ages, races and genders. He additionally sits on the board of the company’s Women’s Alliance. He supports the idea that if your staff is happy, then there will be exceptional motivation to do great work. With this in mind, Olshonsky ensures an enjoyable work environment, every day.
WILLIAM PROCIDA Procida Funding & Advisors William Procida founded Procida Funding & Advisors 25 years ago, in 1995. As president and CEO of the firm, he is well-known for his industry expertise. Since the company’s inception, Procida’s core beliefs have remained the same: work as one cohesive team, teach by example, and help others first and the money will follow. Holding a true passion for the business, Procida is involved with every aspect of the company, while maintaining a healthy balance of freedom for employees. Though he remains actively involved in operations, Procida affords significant responsibility and opportunities to his employees. He provides the ability for everyone to work independently by placing emphasis on learning through action. His greatest desire is for his employees to succeed. Through his innate ability to influence and lead, Procida unwaveringly conveys a clear and direct path to success. His management style focuses on the concepts of open-door communication and roundtable decision making. Valuing the opinions of his team, he welcomes input and stresses the importance of everyone voicing their opinions, so that informed decisions can be made. He is always willing to shoulder the blame for mistakes made by himself or his team; an attribute that has garnered him respect from colleagues, employees and investors. Procida has cultivated a youthful, high-energy team that embraces the company’s culture. He fosters communication among each department to ensure a level of understanding and cohesion that evolves with each team member addition. He remains accessible at all hours and invests time with each professional to ensure that everyone is reaching their potential.
ERIC RICHTER Phillips Edison & Co. Leading his team with an extremely personable approach, Eric Richter serves Phillips Edison & Co. as SVP of property management. Originally joining the firm in 2001, Richter now oversees a team of 38 professionals and executes day-to-day operations for the firm’s national retail portfolio. Instilling full trust in his team members’ ability to make the right decision, he encourages each employee to be a creative problem solver. His supportive attitude positively impacts those around him, as he demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to the business, and each team member, on a personal and professional level. He is quick to distinguish individual needs and efficiently provides appropriate recommendations and direction. Frequently connecting with each employee, providing undivided attention, he ensures individual success by turning mistakes into lessons and skills into strengths. Though the majority of his large team works remotely, in demonstrating an impressive personal touch to leadership, Richter remembers each team member’s spouse’s name, child’s age, and/or a fun piece of information or update on their life. Furthermore, he promotes spending valuable time outside of the company in order to strengthen team morale and office engagement. As an open-minded team player, he collaborates on how to achieve goals and company strategies. Through an open flow of thoughts, ideas and information, Richter builds trust, welcomes feedback, creates room for candid conversations and forms a closely-bonded team. Serving as a motivating mentor for the entire company, he not only encourages employees to develop, he helps them do so. Additionally, in an effort to create a more inclusive team with differing points of view, he executed his goal in cultivating well-balanced departments of women and men at the firm.
CARLETON RISER Transwestern Development Co. A greatly admired and highly-respected professional, Carleton Riser’s success as president of Transwestern Development Co. is often credited to his straight-forward work ethic. Executing with a humble, servant-leader attitude, Riser’s knowledge of the industry, specifically the development side of the business, remains unsurpassed. Understanding the challenges in developing new projects, he is responsible for the day-to-day management of the company and additionally works with regional development officers on project execution and business development. While respecting the fluid nature of the business and navigating the economy, he understands the nuances in securing ideal financing for new developments. As a valued partner, his foresight has led great success for the firm and his vision has led impressive growth, even in times of uncertainty. He is able to succinctly outline goals and direction as a steadfast leader of the development group. He surrounds himself with knowledgeable teams that he is able to rely on to execute deals throughout the country. As a constant, friendly-face within the office, Riser displays an open-door communication policy to offer an environment of trust and transparency. As the leader of a diverse group, he values the differing perspectives and contributions made by each team member. He continually facilitates open discussions on new ideas and pursuits, and consistently recognizes his team’s hard work. He exhibits personal integrity, high intellect, a sense of humor and genuine care for his team, as well as the entire company. He executes on clear strategies to relentlessly pursue development opportunities, and he additionally mentors younger professionals, sharing knowledge and guidance as they begin their careers and learn to navigate the work.
LOUIS ROGERS Capital Square Louis Rogers is the founder and CEO of Capital Square where he oversees the company’s nearly 50 employees as well as all firm strategies and functions. He has blazed the trail for tax-advantaged real estate investments, creating new opportunities and approaches in the space for more than three decades. In 2019 alone, he led the firm to complete nearly $500 million in transaction volume. Throughout his career, he has syndicated billions of dollars of commercial real estate and has become a nationally recognized authority in structuring securities offerings. But more than that, according to Mike Waddell, president at Capital Square, he has many positive attributes that have served him well during his career. “As one of the true pioneers in the securitized 1031 and alternative investment industry, Louis’ vision and passion for this business, along with his visionary leadership, has helped establish Capital Square as a premier national 1031 sponsor. His passion has also created strong growth opportunities for Capital Square employees and has also generated new employment opportunities for people within and outside of our community.” Rogers also possesses a very positive, “can-do” attitude and sets a strong example for the firm’s employees, he said. “He has a propensity to focus on solutions to problems rather than unduly find blame. He treats team members and customers with great respect, and he is ever mindful of doing what is best not only for our investment customers, but our employees as well.”
ROD SANTOMASSIMO The Massimo Group Rod Santomassimo has enjoyed a successful career in the commercial real estate brokerage business as a broker, owner, manager and senior executive with local, regional, and international brokerage firms. He began his industry career in 1989, after graduating from Washington and Lee University; and earned his MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University, where he has frequently appeared as a guest lecturer and facilitator on a variety of personal marketing topics. As founder and president of the Massimo Group, Santomassimo is a frequent guest on podcasts and a popular speaker, is a two-time recipient of the Duke University, Fuqua School of Business Impact Alumni of the Year Award; is the author of three books, one of which is an Amazon best-seller and is still highly acclaimed in the commercial real estate industry. Santomassimo is still very much involved in the day-to-day operations of his company and is continually improving existing programs, while also developing new program ideas to better support the industry. He created the Massimo Group based on his family values and has truly built a culture of ‘family’ within the team, said one employee. “Ideas are encouraged and welcome from all and Rod is not afraid to try new things in an effort to serve our clients to the best of our ability.” Strategically placing each member of the team in a position to leverage their strengths, he has established a productive organization that impacts the achievements and satisfaction of the firm’s clients and has led to the expansion and success of the company.
MARK P. SEALY Sealy & Co. Mark Sealy’s enthusiasm and eagerness for knowledge is contagious. He is constantly bettering himself, motivating others to better themselves, and bettering the company because of his extreme thirst for knowledge. Those thoughts about Sealy, the president of Sealy & Co., are according to a fellow broker in the industry. Sealy’s business-sense is also unmatched. Those who work with him daily say that he is someone who truly cares about his work, his community and his people. “It is clear early on in a relationship with him that he is a family man who values and holds in high regard those who are close to him. As a man, he is compassionate and caring, and as a business owner he is insightful, analytical, deliberate and eager,” said one employee. Sealy joined the company in 1981 and currently oversees enterprise-critical functions through the company’s COO and CFO. He has been responsible for corporate level operations which include brokerage, investments and asset and financial management. Sealy has significant experience in the areas of underwriting, acquisitions, structuring, syndication, financing, re-development, property management, and dispositions. He also encourages employees to utilize the technology provided to collaborate openly with one another and himself. He welcomes in-office visits, phone calls and emails, and makes time to communicate with everyone despite his busy schedule. “Mark is constantly seeking out new technology, software, and processes to enhance the company, its processes and communication and is excited by the prospect of the unknown and future goals.”
JON SILBERMAN NAI Partners As managing partner and the largest shareholder of NAI Partners, Silberman has been responsible for leading the significant growth of NAI Partners from a small, narrowly-focused company, to a fully-diversified commercial real estate and investment firm with more than 160 people, and offices in Houston, Austin and San Antonio. From a client representation perspective, he is primarily focused in the areas of tenant representation and corporate services. Silberman’s leadership strengths come from his analytical background coupled with a creative problem-solving approach. Rather than the typical “it can’t be done” outlook, his approach is “it can be done” and he works diligently to find creative methods and structures to assist his clients in reaching their real estate objectives. Silberman has vision and sees no limit to what NAI Partners can achieve. “A true entrepreneur at heart, Jon is never afraid to roll up his sleeves and do what it takes to achieve our goals,” says his team. What makes Silberman a great boss is his drive and humanity. “Always leading with integrity, he is honest to a fault, is firm but fair, and challenges people in the right way.”
MICHAEL SOLEIMANI SAB Capital As a founding member and managing partner of SAB Capital, Michael Soleimani serves as the driving force behind the company and guides the firm in vision, dedication, work culture and commitment to success. With a decade of professional experience, he boasts an undeniable, impressive track record in managing real estate transactions throughout the US. In commercial real estate, a leader is defined by their track record and over the last five years, he has closed $1.9 billion in real estate transactions, with an emphasis on net lease, across 37 states. Furthermore, his colleagues say he provides the type of guidance and support that one can only hope to find. Soleimani has represented his value with such a high level of consistency that his colleagues trust in his decision making and leadership. He has also played a heavy hand in the development of brokers newly entering the business. His leadership and ability to problem solve through situations with his team is what separates him from the rest. “Time and time again, we have been able to get through challenging situations with Michael in the driver’s seat. We trust him to lead by example and set a higher standard for how deals get done but also for how people are developed into mature and successful business people.” When running into obstacles, he focuses on solutions, rather than problems.
JULIA SOSA LandQwest Commercial Julia Sosa is the principal of LandQwest Commercial’s Orlando office. With more than 20 years of experience in the commercial real estate industry, she currently is responsible for the day-to-day operations of new business development and recruiting industry experts to join the LandQwest Commercial team. She is the former EVP of Real Property Specialists and co-founder and co-owner of the Retailer One on One event. Now called RetailLIVE!, the event is a commercial real estate trade show that has more than 200 national retailer exhibitors and an attendance of more than 3,500 people. Sosa’s abilities in both creating business opportunities and developing her team to their fullest potential make her a great leader and mentor. Her work ethic and industry expertise motivates staff and agents alike to continually improve. Even more so, she supports her entire team and leads by example in all aspects of her role. Her colleagues say she is always willing to teach and mentor others, eagerly grooming them for success. “Her growth mindset encourages everyone to be equally forward thinking and contribute new ideas. Furthermore, she provides leadership and support to foster innovation and ingenuity.”
SEAN SPELLMAN CA Ventures Sean Spellman, chief development officer of CA Ventures, has more than 20 years of experience in the commercial real estate construction and development industry. Over the course of his career, he has been involved in the successful delivery of more than $10 billion worth of real estate development. His experience includes a wide range of commercial real estate asset classes and spans the United States, Europe and Latin America. He started in his role as chief development officer for CA Ventures in 2017. He is a member of the executive leadership team, as well as the firm’s investment committee and oversees the firm’s development and construction services platform, which includes 38 full-time employees around the world. In his role, he is responsible for the development and construction activities for the entire global platform, including the student housing, multifamily residential, industrial, office and medical office/life sciences divisions. He plays an active role in determining CA’s risk management, pre-development, entitlement and construction implementation strategies. Spellman is a leader who creates a value system for his team, where he perceives issues as challenges instead of problems. That way, if you encounter an obstacle, it will not derail you, said one colleague. Rather, “you work with him to find a way to overcome it, by finding partnerships on the team to discover a solution, or take a look at it from a creative point of view. Whatever your approach, he is always encouraging you to find a way to move things forward. Which is unquestionably a great quality in a leader and a boss.”
GARY STACHE CBRE Capital Markets Gary P. Stache serves as an EVP with CBRE Capital Markets, Investment Properties, based in Newport Beach, CA. He has been specializing in investment sales with CBRE for more than 38 years and heads the Investment Properties – SoCal/Phoenix team, which is a 25-person team plus a five-person financial underwriting team. Widely recognized as a leading investment properties expert, he has represented numerous institutional and private investors in the acquisitions and dispositions of their assets. Since 2015, the team has been involved in the sale of more than 221 investment transactions valued at more than $3.2 billion. The team has ranked in the top 5 nationally, out of 92 investment property teams every year for the last 12 years. But make no mistake, Stache doesn’t rest on his laurels. He constantly works and pushes his team to find new and innovative ways to get ahead of the competition and to deliver better solutions to clients. Stache’s colleagues refer to him as a humble human-being and suggest that he is friendly, approachable and generous with his time and resources. “He’s great to work with, is fair and is constantly pushing to be the best and encourages his team to be so as well.”
ANTHONY DELORENZO CBRE Capital Markets Anthony DeLorenzo is an EVP with CBRE Capital Markets, Investment Properties, based in Newport Beach, CA. He has been specializing in investment sales with CBRE for more than 38 years and heads the Investment Properties – SoCal/Phoenix team, which is a 25-person team plus a five-person financial underwriting team. Widely recognized as a leading investment properties expert, he has represented numerous institutional and private investors in acquisitions and with the disposition of their assets. Since 2015, the team has been involved in the sale of over 221 investment transactions valued at more than $3.2 billion. The team has ranked in the top 5 nationally out of 92 Investment Properties teams every year for the last 12 years. But make no mistake, Stache doesn’t rest on his laurels. He constantly works and pushes his team to find new and innovative ways to get ahead of the competition and to deliver better solutions to clients. Stache’s colleagues also call him a humble human being and say he is friendly, approachable and generarous with his time and resources. “He’s great to work with, is fair and and is constantly pushing to be the best and encourages his team to be so as well.”
BEN TEXLER Coastal Ridge Management Ben Texler serves as the president of Coastal Ridge Management and is a partner of Coastal Ridge Real Estate Partners. He is responsible for directing all aspects of the management operating platform and oversight of the $2.25 billion multifamily portfolio. Within his role, he is responsible for the long-term strategic growth of Coastal Ridge. Through the continual refinement of the company’s operational platform, and the associates who support the organization, he is constantly defining, developing, executing and assessing the corporate and operational strategies, plans and procedures. As a fearless leader, he inspires and motivates not only his leadership team, but associates throughout the organization to drive towards operational excellence while fostering a collaborative environment. He lives the five attributes of leadership every day, according to colleagues. His communication and management style are always clear, concise and to the point, while being kind, open and honest, said another colleague. “He takes time to slow down to make sure associates understand, and buy into the directive, and is consistently using communication to motivate and inspire associates.” While Texler has been a part of Coastal Ridge’s exponential growth since the very beginning, he also focuses on helping others grow within. According to one property manager at the firm, he makes you feel valuable and heard—not an easy task. “I have never worked for a company where a partner took that much stock in you as an employee. I would not be at the place I am in my career without him, his vision, and his dedication to excellence.”
ROBERT G. THORNBURGH Kidder Mathews Robert Thornburgh’s highly successful and respected career stems from more than 25 years of faithful service to his clients, the industry and community. His reputation for being a passionate, highly-respected leader and tireless advocate for commercial real estate is well documented. Thornburgh is currently the regional president and shareholder with Kidder Mathews. As a member of the company’s executive leadership team, he is directly involved with the firm’s overall vision, growth and strategic planning. In addition to his role at Kidder Mathews, he most recently served as theglobal president of the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors in 2019. During the four-year commitment, he traveled the US and abroad, serving as a champion of ideas for the betterment of the CRE industry. He also is an existing member of the board of directors for CREtech. His breadth and depth of experience in commercial real estate are the direct result of his focus on integrity, innovation and transformational, service-oriented style of leadership. Other areas of focus for Thornburgh include mentoring of the next generation of real estate professionals, and seeking real diversity programs that have a true positive impact. A recent example was his development and extensive work to have SIOR as an organization committed to supporting an annual program that introduces a career in commercial real estate to high school aged minority honor students. His colleagues say that his drive and tenacity to not only develop but execute strategic goals is unparalleled in the industry. “He is the example of how to frame an organization’s broader purpose and most importantly, help motivate people to work together toward achieving it.”
KEN URANOWITZ Gebroe-Hammer Associates Gebroe-Hammer Associates’ co-founder Morris Hammer took a gamble by hiring a teenage sales representative 45 years ago—and it paid off. The inexperienced sales rep was Ken Uranowitz, then 19 years old, who has since risen to the role of president at the company. He began his CRE investment brokerage career selling in New Jersey’s Essex County and the Oranges, and has set industry records for sales ever since. Uranowitz oversees the company’s mentorship program, where he works with newcomers and helps guide them as investment brokerage professionals. He also helped with developing the company’s expansion plan, taking Gebroe-Hammer from a New Jersey boutique firm to a nationally ranked investment firm, focused on multifamily properties. Having learned under Hammer’s mentorship, Uranowitz helped establish the company’s broker training program, which helps new brokers learn by working alongside experienced multifamily brokerage professionals who have been with the firm for 20 years—with this tutelage, new brokers are able to close deals within 12 to 24 months of joining the firm. He continuously reminds his team and mentees that brokers must work hard and keep going despite early failures, and often rewards successes with anniversary milestones and awards such as Salesperson of the Year and Deal of the Year at the company. Uranowitz’s leadership style of embodying old-fashioned hard work while incorporating industry trends has shaped Gebroe-Hammer into its current nationally-ranked status as an investment firm with a culture of strong teamwork, hard work ethic, and focus on closing the deal.
RICK VILLEGAS Avanath As Avanath’s VP of construction management, Rick Villegas manages more than 275 projects per year and completed more than 50 renovation projects in 2019. In addition to overseeing renovations, which range from flooring upgrades to new clubhouses, Villegas has steered the company to construct high-quality multifamily developments in areas that lack affordable options for renters. Due to Villegas’ leadership, the company has reduced its environmental impact in its developments with measures such as utilizing LED lighting in common areas and apartments, and upgrading to high-efficiency water fixers. Additionally mindful of the health of residents, Villegas also develops clubhouses and wellness centers within the company’s senior citizen communities as part of the company’s Activate Health and Wellness project, which promotes active lifestyles. As a project manager, Villegas is known for delivering completed projects on time within the budget. Described as “unflappable, ”despite unforeseen challenges, his strengths lie in regrouping his team to focus on different aspects of a project when another part stalls unexpectedly. He often gives credit to the team effort, encourages team members to support each other, and provides guidance while allowing employees freedom to grow. Mentees have called to his attention to detail, such as when he points out new details on a site inspection that could result in cost savings for the company. Through fostering this culture of support, Villegas’s team members continue to thrive and learn from his leadership.
ANTHONY WESTREICH Monday Properties After acquiring Max Capital Management Corp. in 2004, Anthony Westreich established Monday Properties. Under his guidance, Monday Properties has closed more than 60 property transactions, which total $13 billion in capital value and 28 million square feet, as well as leasing more than 10 million square feet of office space. The company now serves as a real estate investment firm that operates and develops properties in high-demand markets. Previously, Westreich was a 50% partner at Max Capital and oversaw all asset management, property management, construction management, leasing and development. While at Westfield, he also developed more than 5,000 townhomes and condominiums during a joint venture with Washington, DC-based builder Eakin/Youngentob Assoc. Westreich’s company policy values the importance of giving back—employees are given up to eight hours of paid time off per year to volunteer in the community. Westreich himself volunteers with Monday Night Hospitality, Ronald McDonald House and City Harvest. As a leader, he has fostered a corporate culture that values the entrepreneurial spirit in a relaxed setting. His open door policy means employees are often invited for a cocktail and conversation at the end of the day. He believes in listening to feedback from his company’s professionals, never micromanaging and providing opportunities for his team to grow.
YUEN YUNG Casoro Group As CEO of Casoro Group, Yuen Yung is responsible for the overall leadership of operations including business development and investor relations. Yung specializes in structuring investments that are suitable, attractive and efficient for high net-worth individuals, family offices and institutions. With Yung at the helm of Casoro Group, the company has successfully achieved more than $1 billion in multifamily transactions. He brings a wealth of experience across a broad range of disciplines, among them: finance, investment management, capital raising, wealth planning, venture capital, portfolio management, alternative investments, commodities, strategic planning, leadership and training, sales, and organizational structuring. As a young businessman and entrepreneur, Yung developed 27 commercial retail sites—proving himself a force to be reckoned from the earliest stages of his career. He is known as a leader that has done a lot to uplift the company. “He has painted a vision and, through his hard work and servant-leader mentality, given us the tools and knowledge to know that we can accomplish our goals,” says one colleague. He is kind and caring, a man of great integrity and is the type of leader that you read about in leadership books, said one co-worker. He understands that a great company starts from within and has invested much of his time sharing his knowledge in leadership development with everyone in the company, no matter what position you hold. “He practices what he preaches and always refers back to the principles he has taught us. He sees our potential and has given us an environment where we can grow.”
STEVE ZSIGRAY JLL Head of Midwest property management, Steve Zsigray has more than 30 years of experience in leasing and managing commercial real estate and has held his current position since early 2006. From 2002 to 2005, he served as division director for Texas and Louisiana, overseeing the leasing and management of a 10-million-square-foot office portfolio in Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and New Orleans. From 1999 to 2001, he was a regional manager for Dallas, responsible for property management and construction management services. From 1995 to 1998, he served as regional manager for the state of Tennessee, overseeing a 4-million-square-foot office portfolio in Memphis and Nashville. Compassionate, supportive and ethical, leader, mentor and friend, have all been used to describe Zsigray. He is a driver of change and embraces the newest technology that the industry has to offer. He has been an instrumental force in the “experience as a service” movement within JLL’s property management business, while encouraging his employees to work hard to keep their buildings up-to-date with the latest apps, security and sustainability technology available. His colleagues say that he motivates, trusts and empowers his management team to execute on the strategic initiatives that have been established for the firm’s client and its people. “He supports the training and development of people on all levels within his organization and is the first to celebrate the success and contributions of individuals and teams with passion and sincerity.” He also stands for fairness and equality and can be counted on to do what is right, even when it is the hardest decision. He takes the time to know each and every employee, who they are, what they do and what building they work at. This is true for not only managers, but for the administration support staff too. He frequently takes time to meet with up-and-coming talent to provide guidance and answer questions.