Over the past week global markets have roiled on the heels of Fed Chairman Bernanke's comments that the Fed will begin to temper its actions as markets begin to stabilize and evidence a more significant recover. The Fed's rather benign and preemptive signals sent stocks and bonds into a free fall, and ever since, pundits are predicting a whole range of signals from the onset of a global recession to a temporary and critically needed correction. As an interested observer of global monetary activities, the lack of clarity and chronically unsettled markets concerns me in terms of the impact these gyrations have on our world of human capital. Since 2008 we have witnessed the contraction of employment in the real estate industry, the slow, choppy recovery, and the rebuilding of many organizations continues to move slowly and strategically. Most real estate companies have learned to do more with less on the professional and administrative front. Yet, we have observed aggressive strategic hiring as companies continue to position for recovery, albeit slow, and emerging opportunities that are offered-up by national and global market adjustments. So what's the net, net? I foresee continued hiring for new initiatives and strategic opportunities, but bulking up organizations and teams is so passé.

Tony LoPinto

ROSS STORES, INC.
VP, Corporate Properties
(NEW YORK CITY) This position will be based in New York and will support the operational and strategic property activities associated with the Northeast buying offices. Responsibilities include: internal relationship management, external vendor management, space planning, project management, facility management, budget preparation, cost management, workplace safety and operational efficiencies. A minimum of 10 years of experience in real estate project or facility management required. Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture or project management; Master's degree preferred.