Thank you for following along with our Boss in the Bay State series, a monthly blog post that highlights remarkable professionals throughout Massachusetts.
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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?
I am a commercial realtor north of Boston for Cummings Properties. My day-to-day is helping people find homes for their businesses whether it is office, retail, medical, laboratory or warehouse space. Having negotiated over 600 contracts and an avid networker, I have become an unofficial “connector” – if you need something, I probably know someone who does it! My portfolio spans nearly 300 businesses from Medford to Woburn to Beverly. Outside of work, most of my free time is dedicated to my hometown of Medford where I serve on the boards of the Friends of the Chevalier Theatre, the Medford Public Library Foundation (having raised over $6MM to build our new library) and am the incoming President for the Medford Chamber of Commerce.
What made you want to join the company you work for?
Cummings is unlike any other landlord in the country because a majority of our buildings are owned and operated for the sole benefit of Cummings Foundation, which means our clients’ rental dollars are donated back into the local communities. Cummings Foundation has donated nearly $500MM to impactful nonprofits operating and serving the communities where our employees and clients live and work. In 2023, I had the honor of serving as the chair for a grant selection committee and helped to disperse over $30MM to local nonprofits.
What do you love the most about owning a business in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts folks tend to have a deep sense of loyalty, and I believe if you serve your clients well, the relationships can last a lifetime. Over the last two years, a record-breaking thirty of my transactions have been referrals which is a testament to the power of relationships here and the importance of putting people first. As the sibling of a brother with Autism, I always approach all my deals with empathy and patience, and it has served me well and built a strong sense of loyalty from my past clients.
What are your favorite small businesses to support in Massachusetts?
Simple Sips for fresh & easy cocktail (or mocktail) mix! Elevated Lash & Skin Spa for all your aesthetics needs. Colleen’s and CB Scoops for my fellow ice cream aficionados. Raso’s for killer espresso martinis. Shopping wise, I love Covet and Revolve, which are both local high end consignment stores. I am an aspiring plant mom and love McCue’s in Woburn. Also, as someone who is at high risk for breast cancer, I love the mission of local nonprofits like Runway for Recovery and the Ellie Fund and encourage folks to check them out.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no. Embracing the unknown and putting yourself out there, particularly earlier on in your career can have massive dividends. Each ask I have made over my career – whether the result is a yes or a no – has built confidence in me. Learning how to speak confidently is a universal skill, too.
If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?
Managing an animal rescue and sanctuary – with an attached bookstore. I’d love to write a children’s book.
When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?
Reading and going to concerts (my family has been to over 100 shows, most recently Cheap Trick, Vince Gill and Electric Light Orchestra).
Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with you or find you online.