Behringer Resignation ComesSooner Than Expected

DALLAS-A diagnosis of a speech-impacting medical condition prompted Robert Behringer's sooner-than-expected resignation from his position as chairman of Behringer Harvard Holdings LLC. According to a press release from the local company, Behringer will assume the role of chairman emeritus. Behringer also stepped down as chairman of the board of four Behringer Harvard investment programs including REIT I, Opportunity REIT I, Opportunity REIT II and Multifamily REIT I.

The release notes that a leadership succession plan had been initiated some time ago, but was stepped up due to Behringer's medical issues. During September 2011, the company announced the following leadership changes:

• Robert Aisner took over the company CEO position from Behringer (who transitioned to the role of chairman). Aisner had been promoted from the position of president.
• Jason Mattox, formerly chief administration officer, was promoted to chief operating officer.
• Robert Chapman, who had been COO, remained with the company as EVP.

GlobeSt.com reported as far back in 2008 that leadership changes and promotions were put into place to both align personnel by fund style and to focus on different exit strategy options in the coming years.

“We expect this transition to be completely seamless and without disruption to our partners, clients and investors,” Aisner says in a release announcing the transition. “Robert's vision and leadership have had an indelible impact on Behringer Harvard. We are grateful for the foundation he has built and his enduring legacy. We also respect his sense of responsibility to the company and its future. We wish him all the best as he focuses his attention on addressing his personal priorities.”