Leadership & Management

The firm has appointed CBRE-veteran Gary Jaye to direct overall investments and serve as executive managing director.

"The best lesson I have learned is to be patient," says Michelle Abramov, managing director of RIPCO Real Estate LLC.

"You want to create a work environment where employees feel trusted – a place they want to go to (and stay) when they come into the office," says Deb Donley, founder and CEO of Vocon.

The firm has promoted EVP David J. Harrington to the position, where he will oversee company operations.

"My advice to get a foothold in the industry is to take any available position that will get you in the door," says Mindy Mcilroy, president of Terranova Corp.

CRE players require a special skill set that is not easily achieved.

"I always advise younger people to find a mentor early in their career, who will give honest feedback and support," says Marcy Moneypenny, Avison Young principal and managing director.

"My job is not necessarily about the details or even the specific outcomes, but to guide my team at Hill West to do great work," says David West, founding partner of Hill West Architects.