Q&A WITH RONALD S. ZECCARDI 
Senior Vice President, Project Management | CRESA
How long have you been a BOMA New York member and how did you first get involved with the Association?
I have been a BOMA Member since 2005. Ed Fallon, former BOMA New York President and good friend asked me to join. He explained that he needed my help, so I became a member and have been rolling up my sleeves ever since. In addition to becoming president of the association, I’ve assisted other former Presidents any way I can since 2005, including Lou Mantia, Tom Hill, and Jim Kleeman.
What is your favorite BOMA New York event and why?
By far, my favorite BOMA NY event is the Pinnacle Awards. The Pinnacles are the core of BOMA New York, as it exemplifies everything that we strive to achieve as a BOMA Member. Our membership is second to none and it’s evident by the quality of our buildings, and the mangers that operate them. We just celebrated the 50th year of the Pinnacles and it continues to evolve. Last year, we began to recognize building engineers and this year, we recognized the security and cleaning personnel that help maintain and keep our buildings safe, as well as emerging leaders – the next generation of the CRE industry.
You are a former president of BOMA New York, Chaired the Advocacy Response Committee, Co-Chair Codes and Regulation Committee, served on multiple committees including Professional Development, Preparedness, and Energy and Sustainability, as well as sit on a Pinnacles sub-committee. Through your efforts, you’ve given back so much to the CRE industry. How has your affiliation with BOMA New York benefited your career?
BOMA New York has had a tremendous impact on my career. The wealth of knowledge that is available and the ability to collaborate with the best-in-class CRE professionals is amazing. Each time I attend a committee meeting, I walk away with more value-add knowledge that I did not have.
Prior to CRESA, you’ve been privileged to work for a handful of high-quality brands; having touched millions of square feet throughout New York City and Boston. The list includes Helmsley Spear, NET Properties Management, Muss Development, and The Moinian Group. Is there a specific project throughout your career that epitomizes what you do best?
Over my career, I have been extremely fortunate to work on many projects ranging from simple tenant renovations, to developing buildings from the ground up. There are two projects that continue to resonate with me. The first was a collaboration with my dear friend and current BOMA NY Chair & CEO, Hani Salama, where we established the installation of the security system and mass antenna system at the Empire State Building after 9/11. The other career defining project for me was the redevelopment of One Penn Plaza in 1994.
At the recent New York City Council’s Committee on Small Business, you read a testimony – written by fellow board member, Laura Belt-Ponomarev – in opposition of the proposed commercial rent control legislation. Can you please summarize BOMA New York’s countering stance, as well as describe the testimony experience?
I have testified at City Council on several occasions. It’s always a learning experience and I encourage everyone to seize the opportunity to testify, or just witness a City Council Hearing.
With respect to the rent control legislation, our opposition is simply based on that it is a bad piece of legislation. To begin, the proposed bills are not legally viable as the Council doesn’t have the authority to regulate commercial rent and the proposed bills in their current form will not help small businesses, nor any property owner.
You’ve won three BOMA Presidents Awards & Outstanding Local Member of the Year; have managed dozens of professionals and just had your second grandchild. What advise do you have for young adults thinking about facility management and do you have any go to words of wisdom for professionals just launching their careers?
Regardless of where you are in the trajectory of your career, my advice is the same for all.
1. Try to learn something new every day.
2. Never be afraid to ask a question.
3. Take advantage of the experience and knowledge from building engineers and design professionals, as they are all willing to help you grow.
4. Lastly, and as Jim Kleeman always says, “This is your BOMA. Get involved.”
When you are not working, what do you enjoy doing with your spare time?
I try to spend most of my spare time with my best friend and wife Elaine. I also enjoy getting outside to play golf.
What’s your favorite movie?
I really enjoy the old classic movies. My favorite is Casablanca.
What’s your favorite book?
I enjoy reading Stephen King novels. My favorite is The Shining.
