Vice Chairman

Commercial Real Estate is never the same, it is constantly changing and plays a crucial part in a company’s operations — especially in how it affects its ability to retain and attract talent. I got into the business 29 years ago, and in my career I have learned that I truly love crafting creative solutions that solve my clients’ needs, including: leasing, sales, subleasing, and real estate consulting for the technology industries.

In 1994 I formed The High Technology Facilities Group, Vancouver’s only full-service tenant representation team to focus exclusively on serving BC’s technology sector. Over the last 25 years the industry has exploded, and working alongside the groups that make Vancouver the leading tech city it is today, has been an incredible journey. My clients are hugely passionate about their industries and pull out all the stops when it comes to growing their businesses. Finding commercial space for tech comes with its own unique set of challenges, and I get a real charge from sourcing and negotiating the perfect solutions that help my clients take their companies to the next level.

When I’m not tackling complicated transaction structures, I love travelling –it gives me a break from the 24/7 “deal noodling” I do while in the city. Whether it’s hitting the slopes in Whistler, taking in art and architecture, racing my kids up the Grouse Grind, or road-riding in Europe with my wife, having that “out of market” downtime helps me recharge and think creatively about the projects I have on the go.

Executive Vice President

Working in commercial real estate allows me to combine a fascinating network of relationships with complex and creative skills. My favorite part of my career is earning the role of trusted advisor to clients; assisting them with future strategy and planning for their success. I believe that my clients know and trust my involvement because I am personally vested in their success and the success of our work together. This is not just a job to me, it’s about building relationships and creating real estate solutions that leave the market wondering “how’d they pull that off?” I love seeing the tangible results of my work – being able to walk around my city, and tell the story of what I had a hand in creating, gives me tremendous satisfaction.

Having been part of Vancouver’s tech community for over 20 years, I am more excited than ever to witness the city’s growth as an emerging leader in the international tech community. With Vancouver producing game-changing tech and talent at such an unprecedented rate, it’s been hugely exciting to have a role in helping the industry’s key players take their companies to the next level.

I believe that a person’s growth is only limited by their mindset, and a big part of what drives me is the fact that I will always have more to learn, more friends to make, more people to mentor, and more stories to tell.  I feel fortunate that the people I’ve met have been as passionate about their work as I am about what I do, and that makes this journey a very rewarding road to be on.

Outside of the office, I channel my competitive energy into racing; I try to sign up for something every year. In the last 30 years, I have competed in over 200 races – from half marathons, to Ironman Canada and most recently and again, the BC Bike Race –a 7-day mountain bike stage race along the west coast from Cumberland to Whistler. I’m the father of two in a family of outdoor enthusiasts, who love mountain biking, skiing, boating, trail running, camping and hiking.

Associate Vice President

Over the last few years, I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing people to help them find the perfect “home” for their companies. A lot goes into choosing the best commercial real estate work space. As an advisor, I inspire companies to look at their space differently by creating a tailored plan to maximize vision and value from their office, warehouse, lab or flex space. Whether it’s attracting and retaining talent, enhancing employee wellness, or showcasing company values and culture, I design flexible leases that align with my clients’ goals – because contracts can be rigid, but a business isn’t.

Vancouver is experiencing a new wave of development … a lot of positive press, strong economic growth and active investment in the region. The tech industry has become a major part of Vancouver’s story, and we are now on the map as a global tech hub with global companies arriving, and a record number of local startups continuing to grow. The real estate sector has shifted gears, with new office towers expected to appear in downtown beginning in 2020, Mount Pleasant’s establishment a tech hub, and Gastown and Yaletown growing as attractive transit oriented hotspots.

Staying connected through partnerships with local organizations and hitting the street to support my friends in the tech community are a big part of what keeps me motivated. Creativity and innovation are at the heart of why I do what I do, and this resonates with my clients which I can also call my friends.

When I’m not working, I’ll be seen out on the ski slopes, surfing on our rugged west coast (and occasionally warm weather destinations), shooting hoops or taking quiet cabin weekends whenever possible. Being by the water –specifically Vancouver Island– is my favourite kind of getaway.

As a member of The High Technology Facilities Group at CBRE, I specialize in advising B.C.’s tech/startup ecosystem by helping companies find workplace environments that enhance corporate culture and attract top talent. From productivity to engagement, recruitment and brand reinforcement, your workplace should directly contribute to business results. I am able to understand your unique requirements and will take the time to develop custom real estate solutions that will support your business’ success.

My role gives me the opportunity to work with some of the creative minds of founders and executives that helped build and shape our tech industry. I value maintaining strong relationships in this community by attending events, partnering with local organizations and regularly keeping in touch with my connections.

When I am not at the office, you will find me taking advantage of B.C’.s beautiful outdoors, spending valuable time with friends and family or on the field playing sports.

Senior Coordinator, Client Services

I have been with The High Technology Facilities Group for 13 years and while the work is never-ending, the creativity around me and the energy from the team is inspiring. My role, and what I do best, is keeping the engines of the team running smoothly. My mission each day is to ease their workload so that they can focus on what they do best – industry leading commercial real estate deals. Prior to moving to Vancouver I spent 10 years organizing events for CEO’s in the investment banking industry, so I was familiar with demanding work environments when I switched over to commercial real estate. I thrive on fast-paced industries.

When I’m not in the office, I’m with my family and encouraging my two young children to be the strongest they can be; or pounding the sea wall in my runners – it’s what clears my mind and keeps me sane.

Marketing Coordinator

With previous experience working at the BC Tech Association and Deloitte, I bring a unique approach to The HTFG’s marketing activities. Serving as the bridge between bold, creative ideas and a practical business approach, I strive to produce the highest quality of work in branding, design, social media, website development, and more. I currently hold a Bachelors in Business Administration (Honours) Degree specializing in Marketing from Simon Fraser University and in the process of completing a 2D Design (Graphic Design) Certificate from Emily Carr University of Art + Design.

Outside of work and my studies, I’m often found trying restaurants around Vancouver, admiring or creating works of art, stretching out into a yoga pose, exploring the hikes around BC, or planning my next big adventure (I’ve visited 30+ countries and counting)!