The Yazlee team at George Smith Partners, led by Jonathan Lee and Shahin Yazdi was formed over three years ago. Since then, they have closed more than $250 million year-to-date in financings, despite economic volatility.

In one of the most historically difficult years in CRE, both individuals have shown a magnitude of class and talent, said one co-worker, and they are definitely ones to watch in the industry. "Recessions, no matter the cause, often act as a torrent of filtration- dictating who and who isn't – fit to survive into the next upswing. Jonathan and Shahin's tenacity to keep their team intact and look for creative innovation has been their bellwether of future of success."

Lee and Yazdi play two roles and wear two hats at George Smith Partners. One, they are a strong and consistent producing team. And, as managing directors, they also are responsible for company decisions and leadership. The pair also started an evaluation process of brokers where they sit down with producers quarterly and ask them how they can help them improve production. They also look for new revenue streams for the company. For example, they work to create new relationships with Life Companies, a capital type used by GSP brokers as well as look for new servicing fees for the company.