1. How did you first get introduced to BOMA New York?
My first introduction to BOMA New York was very early in my career when my Senior Manager from Shorenstein Company paid for my membership. We were nominated for a BOMA New York Pinnacle Award and worked together to compile the book and facilitate the tour of 200 Park Avenue. We were competing for the Renovated Building category in the over 1 Million SF category and I am happy to say we won the award! It was very exciting.
2. Do you hold any leadership roles with BOMA New York?
Beyond the extensive involvement with multiple committees over time, I have also held several leadership roles with BOMA New York. I served on the Pinnacle Journal Sales Sub-Committee and also chaired the committee for the past four years. The proceeds of which both fund the event and the associations other initiatives, and I currently chair the Technology Committee. Additionally, I sat on the Board of Directors for a year and a half while with Cushman and Wakefield. I am officially serving on the Board of Directors again effective this year as a Senior Manager with Boston Properties.
3. What does being Chair of the Technology Committee entail?
The newly formed Technology Committee is a key initiative and will help keep BOMA New York’s members up-to-date and relevant in our industry. In the last year, we tackled several significant tasks including facilitating a complete revamp and modernization of the website, which looks fantastic and developing an APP, which is being rolled out now.
Next steps for the website include the addition of a Members Only section and expanding and developing website content such as white papers to provide our members key resources.
Moving into this year, our team will also be very focused on educating our members on new and cutting-edge technology. With this in mind, we developed and recently kicked off our Tech Byte education series with a live presentation of a facial recognition building access program. We had great feedback on this fascinating new capability and several buildings are implementing this technology with great success.
4. Is there a BOMA New York initiative or program you’re particularly excited for this coming year?
In the last year I was involved with the BOMA New York Long Range Planning sessions. I am very excited to see the plan put into action and come to fruition and hopefully exceed expectations.
5. How do you feel your position at Boston Properties helps you as a BOMA New York member or Chair of the Technology Committee?
As one of the premier REITS in the world, Boston Properties sets a Class A example for the industry on how to effectively own and manage commercial properties. Boston Properties has been a huge supporter of BOMA New York including the fact that Tom Hill of our executive management team is a recent former president. As a member - having the support of your firm helps to maximize the experience. I believe that one of the key things BOMA New York brings to its members is a tremendous diversity of owners, assets and people. Based on my position at Boston Properties, my role on the Board of Directors and Chair of the Technology committee, I intend to continue to bring forward my experience and the best practices of our firm to the Association.
6. What is your favorite part about being a BOMA New York member?
My favorite part is the ongoing kinship with so many dynamic and talented association members.
7. What has been your favorite BOMA New York event this year and why?
The Pinnacles is an all-time annual favorite for me! It’s not just a great party, it’s also a recognition of excellence amongst my industry peers in multiple building categories. It is important to honor the tremendous hard work and talent found within commercial real estate.
8. Do you feel that being a BOMA New York member provides you with certain benefits or opportunities?
My involvement with BOMA New York has pushed me to come out of my comfort zone and propelled me to tackle tasks I would have never believed could be in my wheelhouse. It has made me a stronger leader and manager. Also, being able to contribute my 30+ years of experience and mentor many young association members is very gratifying.
9. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry?
Take a step back from your day job and look at the bigger picture. Get involved in our industry by joining an association such as BOMA New York and stretch yourself a little further by donating some time to one of the many charitable and philanthropic organizations out there. It’s important to balance real estate with the bigger world around you. Give back and always pay it forward.
