Cushman Joins Rock Creek as Chair

"I really view John as a partner who will help me source deals," Dahl tells GlobeSt.com. "It also allows us to compare notes as we figure out where we want to be investing." Because of Cushman's contacts in the industry and wealth of experience, Dahl says the chairman position is a natural fit for the Los Angeles-based Cushman. "It's more logical for me, now, to make a lateral move, and be more of a line guy," Dahl says.

Though Cushman is in Los Angeles, Dahl says there are no active plans to bring him to Jacksonville, where Rock Creek Capital is headquartered. "The one thing we have in common is that our offices are our cell phones, and we're always moving," Dahl acknowledges.

He also acknowledges he'd only met Cushman about a year ago, but, like many others, knew of him. Dahl and Cushman have many mutual friends. When the two men were finally introduced, Dahl's first response was how much fun it would be to work with Cushman.

"We already had the platform in place, and John likes land deals," Dahl explains. "A lot of John's friends and clients are land people."

Rock Creek Capital was launched in 1992 to acquire and maintain resource-rich land (such as timberland , land with water or land with mineral rights), then enhance value through repositioning, active management and resource enhancement. The goal, Dahl says, is responsible stewardship for the land and what's on it.

"Conservation is huge these days," Dahl goes on to say. "Many high-net worth individuals are placing conservation easements on their properties, or have land trusts all over the country. Thousands of acres are being permanently protected as a result." He notes that Rock Creek Capital is working on closing two large land transactions, but declined to mention specifics, noting he is still involved with negotiations.