Jamestown US Starts New Year With Changes

ATLANTA-With the resignation of one of its general partners, Jamestown US has named Jeff Ackemann, Matt Bronfman and Lee Wright to head Jamestown’s American operations. Steve Zoukis, who served as one of the firm’s general partners for 13 years, has decided to start his own company.Ackemann, Bronfman and Wright have been responsible for day-to-day operations for the past several years during their tenure as managing directors, according to Christoph Kahl, general partner and the founder of the company. Zoukis will continue as a limited partner with Jamestown. In a company release, Kahl explains that the framework for the trio to take over the American operations was spelled out a few years ago. No other corporate changes are expected as a result of Zoukis’ move, Bronfman says.Kahl adds that the firm regrets Zoukis’ decision to branch out on his own and wishes him the best in his new career. Zoukis’ new company will focus on value-added and opportunistic real estate investment as well as development. Zoukis could not be reached for comment. “About four years ago, Chris and Steve decided to set up a succession plan and Steve has been spending more time in New York and other cities,” Bronfman tells GlobeSt.com. Even so, the timing of Zoukis’ decision surprised Bronfman, calling Zoukis a friend and mentor. “I would have preferred the succession plan not be implemented so soon.”Aside from structural changes, Bronfman explains that Jamestown is in the process of launching Jamestown Select, a fund focused on more opportunistic assets. He says that with a lot of money changing core assets, the firm believes it is a good time to look at development opportunities and raw land deals. Some of Jamestown’s well-known assets include One Times Square, the Fox News Headquarters at 1211 Ave. of Americas and the General Motors Building, all in New York City.