Happy New Year
Every year on this Tuesday after Labor Day, I reflect on the fact that this is, in many respects, the beginning of the new business year. By the end of summer, the year’s results are almost fully baked, and the rhythm of the new year begins as businesses kickoff strategic planning and budgeting processes for the year ahead. This New Year begins with a weakening economy, anemic job growth, global financial chaos, and a political season that promises to be critical in how we (hopefully) begin to address a new economic reality. On the real estate front, the general economic and social situation is worrisome to say the least, so prepare to batten down the hatches; it’s going to be a wild ride this year.

Tony LoPinto is the Global Sector Leader of Korn/Ferry International's Real Estate Practice and founder of SelectLeaders. The views expressed in this article are the author’s own.

WOLLBORG/MICHELSON
Sec Financial Reporting Accountant
(LOS ANGELES) The accountant will assist with the preparation of monthly/quarterly/annual financial reports as necessary, including the quarterly Supplemental Financial Report, earnings release and 10Q/10K; prepare supporting schedules, reconciliations and the supporting package for all reports; prepare reports required by lenders and/or joint venture partners; and take the lead on ensuring that the required SEC reports are prepared in compliance with XBRL requirements; among other duties.

WASHINGTON STATE INVESTMENT BOARD
Investment Officer – Real Estate
(OLYMPIA, WA) The officer will review proposed real estate partnership investments and recommend the pursuit or rejection thereof. Process includes strategy overview, market underwriting, key meetings with potential partners' senior management, document review, company background research, risk and financial structure analyses, on-site due diligence, etc.; prepare and present recommendations based on findings and conclusions; and build and maintain positive communications and relationships with the management teams of the partnerships assigned to him/her; among other duties.