Program Speakers
Get inspired by the innovators and visionaries leading the conversation in commercial real estate and technology. Our Real Estate Conference Speakers represent the forefront of CRE, automation, smart buildings, and digital strategy. Scroll down to see who's speaking at Realcomm 2025 and why you won't want to miss a single session.
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Joseph Aamidor is an experienced product leader and expert in smart buildings, real estate technology and facility operations. He provides product and market strategy guidance to building owners/operators, established building management firms, technology providers, investors, and early-stage innovators. Previously, he served as Director of Product at Lucid Design Group and was a product manager at Johnson Controls.
Warren Adair is responsible for leading the LMH Information Technology (IT) team in designing, developing, and implementing organizational information systems and software applications. Adair is Security+ and CISSP certified and brings over 25 years of experience, expertise, and leadership to this role.
Aaron Altscher is the VP, IT at Carr. Aaron leads IT innovation efforts and is the architect and developer for Carr’s Data Analytics, IoT, Machine Learning/AI, and Hospitality platforms. Aaron’s 2022 focus is on IT innovation around data automation and the return to work movement.
Vijay Anand, VP for AI & Data at MRI, leads the creation of top-tier AI-based real estate software, leveraging over 20 years of experience in product development at the Big 4. Harnessing AI, ML, data, and analytics, he builds insightful solutions that address customer problems, all while pioneering in product strategy and delivering cloud-based global solutions.
Stuart is an award-winning digital innovation and transformation leader recognized for strategic leadership. As the founder of Bay Tech Advisors, Stuart is an advisor to various PropTech startups and VCs and he provides Digital and Technology advice to firms across the real estate, private equity, and investment management industries. Stuart is currently on the board of the US Proptech Council and was previously an Innovation & Technology leader at CBRE, where he led their technology and smart buildings work at Google.
Dan Arenovski is the Head of Security & Crisis Management, Animal Health US at Boehringer Ingelheim, where he focuses on creating a safe and secure environment for employees, contractors, and visitors. He serves as a key liaison with local, state, and federal law enforcement and leads the development of policies and procedures related to access control, surveillance, guard services, crisis response, workplace violence, investigations, and more. With over 40 years of experience in corporate security and both civilian and military law enforcement, Dan brings deep expertise and leadership to his role.
Farukh Aslam is the Chief Executive Officer of Sinclair Digital (SD) a low voltage design and consulting company developing Digital DC-Microgrid Buildings. In 2019, Aslam successfully developed the Sinclair Marriott Autograph Hotel which is widely considered the most diverse PoE and DC Microgrid project in North America. From the completion of the Sinclair Hotel, Aslam created SD to bring expertise of the sustainability and cost benefits of a DC building infrastructure to the marketplace. Since its inception SD has been involved in several design build projects and continues to evolve DC infrastructure in buildings.
Ghazi Atallah is the Founder and CEO of Picacity Ai, a global player in enabling Real Estate Districts and Cities with an innovative Digital Platform that helps deliver improved Sustainability, Safety, Operational Efficiency and AI Driven insights for faster and smart decision making. Ghazi is an entrepreneur with a strong executive corporate background in leading global technology companies. He was previously the Founder and CEO of NXN, a leading smart districts consulting company. During his tenure at Cisco, he held a number of senior positions including Managing Director and Vice President for Cisco’s Service Provider business in emerging markets.
Marlena Badway has fifteen years of experience in commercial real estate focused on strategy and business transformation. Marlena has deep real estate domain expertise, having worked with global Real Estate Owners and Investment Managers operating portfolios across all asset sectors and several geographic markets, including the United States, Europe and Asia Pacific.
Gary Bailey serves as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Phillips Edison & Company (PECO), one of the nation’s largest owners and operators of grocery-anchored shopping centers. With over 25 years of experience in information technology and 18 years in commercial real estate at PECO, Gary leads the company’s strategic IT initiatives with a focus on innovation, operational excellence, and digital transformation. In his role, Gary oversees the development and implementation of cutting-edge IT solutions that drive business growth and efficiency. He is responsible for ensuring the security, scalability, and resilience of PECO’s technology infrastructure, while aligning IT strategy with the company’s long-term goals. Gary is recognized for his forward-thinking approach and commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within the IT organization.
Jim Baldwin is the founder and CEO of Domatic, a company that is revolutionizing how to build smarter, healthier buildings. With over 30 years of experience in software and hardware design and development, he has led and contributed to innovative projects at Apple, Microsoft, Intel, and several startups.
Chris Barbier leads Yardi’s Investment Suite, collaborating with clients and teams to deliver real estate investment solutions. With 25+ years in software, finance, and professional services, he brings expertise in product management, consulting, and portfolio accounting.
Jeff Beavers is Executive Director with National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). With more than 30 years in the information and communications technology (ICT) industry, Jeff began his telecommunications career in the U.S. Air Force. He has served in various design and consulting roles in many types of industries, including the Department of Defense, municipal and federal government, K–12 and higher education, healthcare, sports and entertainment, data centers, and utilities (broadband, water, energy, wind and solar). Jeff is a Registered Communications Distribution Designer and has the OSP Designer credential. He is a recognized subject matter expert and past President of BICSI, a global professional association supporting the advancement of the ICT community.
Porter Bellew is SVP, CIO for Federal Realty Investment Trust. He is responsible for the Trust’s information and technology strategy, services, operations, and team. Porter has over 35 years of experience in real estate across all product types.
Ted Belville is a Lead Communications Engineer for Enterprise Technology at The Walt Disney Company. He started his Telecommunications career in 1975 when he joined the United States Air Force Communications Service (AFCS) later Command (AFCC). Since the USAF, Ted has held critical roles in Banking (South East Data Processing), Defense (Martin Marietta Data Systems), Manufacturing (Timeplex), and then again as a Defense Contractor at Grumman and Northrop. He is a BICSI/RCDD, has worked for The Walt Disney Company for 27 years and will have 50 years of experience in telecommunications this year.
As Webinars and Program Manager at Realcomm, Sarah Bemporad is responsible for conducting real estate tech webinars and managing the educational content for online seminars and conferences. Previously, Sarah managed investor and corporate relations at Paramount Group, a fully-integrated REIT headquartered in New York.
Howard Berger has over 30 years of experience in technology and commercial/investment real estate. As Realcomm's SVP Programs, he manages its US and international conferences and CIO programs. Previously, he was with The Jamesan Group, which specialized in strategic technology consulting for the commercial real estate industry and prior to that, he was with TRW Real Estate Information Systems where he developed real estate information systems for the mortgage, appraisal and title insurance industries.
Don Bleaney, Chief Product Officer at PremiseHQ, leads the company’s product strategy and innovative AI-driven initiatives. With a robust background in commercial real estate, coupled with over 17 years of consulting expertise with premier real estate firms, Don is a leader in process automation and strategic enhancements. His profound industry insights fuel PremiseHQ’s mission to pioneer advanced, AI-enabled solutions that optimize operations and boost efficiency in the real estate industry. Under Don’s leadership, PremiseHQ empowers organizations to leverage AI for not only achieving sustainable growth but also securing a significant competitive edge in the market.
As the Vice President and General Manager of Autodesk Tandem, Bob Bray is leading Autodesk’s newest business initiative to transform the built asset lifecycle with Digital Twin technology and solutions. Bob has significant experience developing new products and markets, managing distributed development teams, running successful open-source projects, and evangelizing products and technology. In his 20+ year tenure at Autodesk, Bob held a number of key leadership roles in AEC product management, engineering management, software architecture, and software development.
Clayton Broemsen is VP of IT Infrastructure for Cousins Properties, a REIT based in Atlanta, GA. He is responsible for all aspects of Cousins’ IT Infrastructure as it applies to the Corporate Office and Property Infrastructure including Networks, End User Devices, Security, Data Centers and Disaster Recovery.
Joe Brown is responsible for enhancing technology, innovation, resiliency and sustainability, driving value across KingSett's real estate portfolio of over $16 billion of assets under management. He began his career consulting on energy projects and building commissioning and has spent the last 15 years in building technology and operations through various roles.
Charles Buscarino is a recognized leader in the design and implementation of integrated smart building systems. He founded The Clarient Group (TCG) in 2002 and under his leadership, TCG has developed innovative solutions for more than 100 clients and 55 million square feet of properties, including many well-known signature projects.
Scott Cardenas serves as Managing Director and the Chief Technology Officer for Bridge Investment Group. Over his career, Scott has worked globally implementing enterprise solutions to drive innovation, business efficiency and standardization. Prior to Bridge, Scott worked as the Chief Information Officer for the City and County of Denver. He oversaw the implementation of a new ERP platform, which served over 13K employees and 23 lines of business. In addition, Denver also implemented a new CRM platform that interfaced with over 700K residents, which improved overall communication and engagement.
Alex Chouinard leads NOKIA's Private Wireless Strategic Markets function for the US Region. He and his team work directly with industry sector leaders to create innovation solutions and business outcomes. Alex brings a strong track record and over 19 years of experience in IT/Cloud, Telecom, and Security from leading various Territory, Technology, and Structured Finance functions. Alex’s mission is to create value for partners and real estate clients using NOKIA’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) technology. Leveraging the NOKIA DAC One Platform approach for Cellular Coverage Extension + Private 5G + Edge Application solutions, Alex and team are able to generate new revenue streams, cost savings, and solve complex challenges.
Scott Cochrane is President and CEO of Cochrane Supply & Engineering, overseeing six branches throughout three states and one in Canada. He is an advisory council member for multiple industry manufacturers such as Honeywell, Johnson Controls, and Tridium.
Joe Consolo is an industry principal with more than 20 years of business leadership experience. He has expertise in business development, operational excellence, sustainability and team leadership. Joe worked in multiple industries, including the energy, commercial, oil and gas, semiconductor, and medical fields. He started his career at Yardi in 2016 and has been instrumental in leading our growing energy business.
Derek is a values-centered entrepreneur who is passionate about the environment and making bold leaps in energy efficiency through system integration. He is a subject matter expert in building controls and intelligent DC Nanogrids, and contributes to industry working groups to promote efficient building technologies. As founder and CEO of LumenCache, he is leading the collaborative effort to globally change the standard for power distribution in buildings making them smart, safe, efficient, and resilient.
Michael Coyne oversees operations strategy and initiatives at AvalonBay Communities, the nation’s largest multifamily REIT. He and his team help drive innovation across AvalonBay’s operating model – including leasing, maintenance, and resident experience – by incorporating new digital products, capabilities, and ways of working.
Jon Crosier started his career at the intersection of technology and business operations, always focused on driving measurable outcomes through data-informed decision making. Over the years, Jon has led cross-functional teams through large-scale transformations, built enterprise data platforms, and championed data governance frameworks. These experiences, combined with a passion for turning complexity into clarity, led to his current role as CTO at Kilroy Realty, a publicly traded REIT, where he is responsible for technology strategy, data architecture, and innovation enablement across the organization.
Ricardo Cruz leads Business Development at Diald, an AI-powered platform that streamlines the underwriting and due diligence process by enabling teams to make smarter, faster investment decisions. Before joining Diald, Ricardo worked at Antani, a commercial real estate firm based in Mexico, where he specialized in strategic growth and cross-border dealmaking across Latin American markets.
Andrea Curley is currently a Director for Yardi. She is a seasoned sales executive and relationship manager with over 20 years experience building and leading sales operations and client relationship efforts. Background includes managing complex sales processes, growing existing business and demonstrating intricate system software.
Mardos Davidian is a seasoned professional with over 17 years of experience in the IT/OT space, specializing in network infrastructure and connectivity solutions. His expertise spans both on-premise and cloud deployments across a range of enterprise infrastructure platforms. Since entering the real estate sector in 2020, Mardos has been a key driver in the deployment of Passive Optical Networks (PON), delivering robust Gigabit and XGS-PON solutions that support both building operations and tenant services. His work continues to sit at the intersection of technology and real estate, enabling smarter, more connected buildings
Edi Demaj is one of the Co-Founders of KODE Labs and is a key contributor to the vision and roadmap for the company. He is responsible for helping bridge the gap between technology, product and other areas within the company. Prior to KODE Labs, he was the Co-Founder of Rocket Fiber, top three fastest internet providers in America and a Managed Services provider.
Etrit Demaj is a co-founder of KODE Labs and a key contributor behind its vision and product roadmap. With over 15 years in the real estate industry, he developed a deep understanding of the untapped potential of data in the built environment. Recognizing the need for a smarter, more connected future, he co-founded KODE Labs alongside his brother, Edi Demaj, and friend, Gentrit Gojani. Together, they built a cloud-based, vendor-agnostic smart building operating system that transforms how buildings are managed. Under his leadership, KODE has accelerated the adoption of cloud computing and data engineering in real estate, enhancing the experiences of those who live, work, and interact with the spaces it powers. In recognition of his contributions, Etrit was honored with the Entrepreneur of The Year® 2023 Michigan and Northwest Ohio Award.
Drew DePriest is a Director of Real Estate Operations Technology at McKesson. Prior to joining McKesson, Drew worked as a Facilities Management Technology for a large technology client at CBRE, where he previously led Digital Solutions globally for the firm's workplace experience platform, Host. Prior to CBRE, Drew headed the global Collaboration Services team at Aon, led business development at workplace technology startup Comfy (acquired by Siemens), and spent 12 years operations and business development at building automation firm Automated Logic.
Shawn Devroude is the co-founder and COO of MarisConnect, a global iSupplier and logistics provider serving the renewable energy, oil and gas, fiber, and data center sectors. He is a retired FBI Senior Executive, having served as Deputy Assistant Director for both the Cyber Operations and Counterintelligence Divisions. His work focused on protecting U.S. infrastructure and technology from foreign threats, particularly those from China. He also led the FBI’s Hybrid Threat Center, overseeing national security cyber operations. Before joining the FBI, Shawn was a state trial prosecutor with the Delaware Department of Justice.
Traci Doane is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in Corporate Real Estate and Facilities Management technology solutions. She has led teams advising on and implementing solutions across various domains, including Workplace Experience, Portfolio and Space Management, Leasing, Construction, and Property Management. Traci's expertise spans leadership roles in private equity, private investor-backed, and public companies, complemented by extensive experience in global mergers and acquisitions.
Michael Dugent is the Global IoT Director at Nozomi Networks, a leading provider of OT and IoT visibility and cybersecurity. In his current role, Michael focuses on enabling digital transformation through secure IoT implementations, helping organizations adopt connected technologies without compromising safety or security. With over a decade of experience in industrial control system (ICS) cybersecurity, Michael has developed a well-rounded expertise in securing critical infrastructure environments. His career spans pivotal roles at prominent organizations such as Industrial Defender and Lockheed Martin, where he honed his skills in critical infrastructure protection and the integration of IT and OT cybersecurity strategies.
Jeff Ewing directs 5Q’s Security Operations and Architecture Services. Throughout the first portion of his 25+ career, Jeff provided management consulting and technology advisory services to C-Level and IT Leadership across all real estate verticals. As a trusted consultant, he has executed projects for clients around cloud transformation services, process automation, infrastructure design and data governance. Since obtaining a CISSP in 2012, Jeff has been instrumental in cyber security solutions such as secure cloud applications development, maturity assessments and remediation, awareness training programs and the development of cyber security policies and procedures.
Brett Fisher is the Senior Director of Product Management for Workplace Service Delivery, and is tasked with defining and executing on the roadmap for the platform. Previously, he was a Senior Manager at Deloitte Consulting, with responsibilities in leading the IWMS practice. Brett has a decade of experience in leveraging technology to enable the Corporate Real Estate (CRE) function. He has led real estate technology strategy engagements, inclusive of technology system selection and modernization programs. He has relationships with real estate leaders, orchestrated the relationships with a variety of technology partners, and is a published thought leader, commenting on the future of real estate technology.
Robert Fitzgerald is the Regional Technology Director for JLL Technologies. In this role, Robert helps clients shape their digital transformation strategy. He and his team provide advisory and consulting expertise to clients to help identify, select, implement, and sustain workplace technologies, bringing fit for purpose solutions that deliver targeted business outcomes supporting workplace experience, portfolio optimization, operational efficiency, and carbon footprint reduction. Prior to his current role, Robert held several leadership roles with Nokia Workplace Resources helping transform their portfolio, organization and digital landscape globally.
Greg Fitzpatrick is the Business Development Leader for IoT and Integration at Cochrane Supply and Engineering, where he supports end users, consulting engineers and systems integrators in the area of IoT, Integration and Enterprise Software. With over 25 years in the Building Systems and Controls business, he helps clients match new technology for Smart Buildings through specification writing, technology presentations and design assistance. Greg is also Executive Director for the Real Estate Cyber Consortium (RECC) focused on promoting cyber security awareness for operational technology.
David is the Industry Principal of AI at Yardi, where he works closely with the sales team to help clients understand how Yardi’s solutions align with their business needs. A real estate technology, AI, and IT guru with deep sales expertise and entrepreneurial roots, David brings decades of experience bridging the gap between technical innovation and real-world application.
Susan Gerock currently serves as SVP, Information Technology and CIO for Elme Communities, formerly known as WashREIT. She has over 25 years' experience in various technology roles spanning manufacturing, consulting, application service provider and commercial real estate organizations. Her specialties include ERP selection and implementation, project and change management, and cybersecurity. She is also a proponent of the use of social media and the overlapping relationship between technology and marketing.
Patrick Ghilani is the Chief Executive Officer of MRI Software, he has spearheaded productivity and client experience improvements while leading all client operations, including Professional Services, Client Support, and SaaS hosting. Patrick has led corporate growth initiatives targeting both geographic and innovative product expansion. With over 20 years of experience in the enterprise application arena, he has successfully managed both the strategy and operations of sizeable technology product and services organizations, serving multiple global industries, including over 10 years in the Commercial and Multi-Family Real Estate verticals.
Amanda Gibb has over 17 years’ experience in the commercial real estate space, leading technology teams for the past 10 years at Westfield, Starwood Retail, JLL, and now Bedrock in Detroit, MI. At Bedrock, Amanda works to deploy a fit-for-purpose application tech stack for the vertically integrated real estate company, including M&A, property management, leasing, development, construction, marketing, HR, legal, and accounting, across all asset types and classes. As CTIO she leads multiple technology teams, including Infrastructure, Applications, Building Controls, Data & Analytics, and Help Desk, working closely with the CTO and Innovation teams. The teams focus on projects that improve operational efficiency, cost savings, tenant experience, innovation, and data quality/insights.
Dave Glazer is the principal of Glazer Design, a horizon scanning and futures research lab. He honed his data and trend analysis skills in the Canadian Federal Government, where his reports reached all levels of government, including the Prime Minister’s Office. Dave has also played a key role in bringing a number of high-tech and clean-tech ventures to market in Canada. He is a former VP of Data Strategy and Innovation for Kroll, and previously led emerging trends, innovation and IT/digital strategy research and advisory as part of the CIO practice at Info-Tech Research Group.
Ilene Goldfine is the Chief Digital Strategy Officer for Hines. She oversees the Global Digital Strategy Office, which uses technology and data to empower Hines employees, engage clients and partners, optimize operations and continuously transform our products and services. Previously she served as head of the Business Technology Group after having worked on several of the firm’s investment funds and in the financial/accounting functions across the firm.
Fred Gordy is a Smart Building industry expert and thought leader with 20 years of experience in secure control system development and implementation for Fortune 500 companies throughout the US and abroad. He is one of the first in the Smart Building industry to address the inherent risk that control system technology poses.He has authored and participated in over 100 articles on building control cybersecurity with industry magazines as well as the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, and Healthcare publications. In addition to publishing articles, for almost a decade he led control system cybersecurity workshops and has been a passionate speaker and teacher on the subject of building control cybersecurity.
Margaret Guelzow is passionate about the intersection of data, enabling technologies, business process and people's behavior through the lens of occupiers, investors and tenants of real estate. She has 20 years' experience in real estate data, technology and operations with a demonstrated ability to scale divisions, drive agility and optimize operational performance while delivering on business growth and cost-savings objectives. Currently thriving at Cherre, with previous experience including CBRE and WeWork.
Arv Gupta is an Operating Executive with extensive General Management background in Retail /Consumer Products and Services, known for building and transforming organizations to drive significant sales growth and value. Accomplished in leading business units within multiple consumer industry sectors, including iconic consumer brands, driving "turnaround" performance, by gaining organizational commitment for revitalized business directions. Arv is currently the Senior Vice President of Operations Services, at Cadillac Fairview Corporation, with a mandate to drive national operational efficiency and effectiveness, while maintaining a standard of excellence in client experience across all properties.
Cara Haring is a Senior Analyst in the Verdantix Real Estate & Built Environment practice. Her current research agenda focuses on digital transformation across the asset life cycle, proptech investment strategies, and retrofit financing. Prior to joining Verdantix, Cara worked in commercial real estate lending at Citizens Bank and sustainable real estate consulting at Resource Energy. She brings experience in commercial real estate portfolio management/underwriting, ESG reporting, and sustainability strategy.
Jack Harnett is a Vice President at Brookfield Asset Management, where he leads Brookfield Real Estate's Business Analytics team. Jack holds a leadership position within Brookfield's AI Value Creation Office and has successfully implemented Generative AI solutions that have enhanced efficiencies across Investments, Finance, and Operations.
In his role as EVP and Chief Strategy Officer at NTrust, Mike Harrison oversees the company’s strategic initiatives, leveraging his expertise to enhance NTrust’s cutting-edge solutions for the real estate industry. His passion for financial operations, data, and the real estate industry aligns seamlessly with NTrust’s mission to empower clients with advanced tools and data insights. Mike has over 30 years in the real estate industry. He excels in strategic planning, financial operations, business transformation, and technology, with a proven track record of driving innovation and bottom-line success.
Jason Heymann is a strategic marketing leader with a diverse background spanning entertainment, brand strategy, and commercial real estate marketing. Looking to return to his familial roots in commercial real estate, Jason transitioned into shopping center marketing leadership, bringing his expertise in storytelling, audience engagement, and omnichannel strategy to the industry. As Senior Director of Marketing at CBL Properties, he leads national marketing strategy for 50+ shopping centers, spearheading AI-driven digital innovation, strategic brand partnerships, and high-impact campaigns that drive measurable business growth.
Edward M. Hinchey Jr. joined Fisher Brothers in 2021 as Senior Director of Technology, a role in which he provides direction on strategic solutions and leadership to address current and emerging challenges and capitalize on technological opportunities. Fisher Brothers is an owner, developer and financer with a robust portfolio across the United States. Fisher Brothers currently owns and operates 7.5 million SF of commercial, over 1 million SF residential and 200,000 SF of experiential retail assets in New York City, Washington, DC, Las Vegas, Miami and Orlando. Lionheart, an asset management affiliate of Fisher Brothers, operates in 11 cities.
Brett Hitt is Co-Chairman of HITT Contracting, one of the nation's largest general contractors with annual revenue exceeding $8.6B. As a third-generation owner of the 87-year-old business, Brett's leadership philosophy emphasizes the critical role disruption and innovation play in driving meaningful industry transformation. Known for his bold strategic vision, Brett has advanced the company through commitments in sustainability, technology, and construction materials and methodology. The firm is deeply committed to developing the next generation of builders, evidenced by their investments in organizations and institutions that advance careers in construction. In 2024, HITT announced the founding of the National Institute for Smart Construction, in partnership with Virginia Tech.
Russ Holton leads the Building Management System design, integration, project management, commissioning, retro commissioning, functional testing, service and support for the Bedrock Detroit and the Bedrock Cleveland Real Estate Portfolio. The portfolio currently has 55 commercial and residential sites approaching 15 million square feet of integrated properties.
Ali Hoss is the Head of Sustainability & Asset Optimization, Canada at Colliers, where he leads the enterprise-wide strategy, operational transformation, and sustainable investment planning for a commercial real estate portfolio spanning 100 million square feet across Canada. He collaborates closely with some of Canada’s largest pension plans and institutional investors to develop and implement strategies that align financial objectives with sustainability priorities, driving value creation, asset resilience, and risk mitigation. Ali is a Forbes magazine contributor, certified energy manager, author, speaker, and university guest lecturer in engineering and sustainability.
As the leader of one of Hepta Systems’ fastest growing departments, Jason Houck is in charge of the design and implementation of smart building networks. He has over fourteen years of experience implementing and servicing Building Automation and Security Systems. His responsibilities include project management, programming, network design, and verification of building systems for both retrofit and new construction projects. Jason also has an extensive IT background which allows him to fully appreciate the importance of a properly designed network.
Victor Iaccino is Vice President, Operations at CT REIT where he oversees the property management and operations teams. Victor has over 15 years experience in the commercial real estate industry. Prior to joining CT REIT in 2016, he held a number of roles at Canadian Tire Real Estate Ltd within their development and operation groups.
Michael Izzo is the firm’s Senior Vice President, Carbon Strategy responsible for leading Hines’ efforts to assess its carbon emissions and develop the strategy to set and achieve the firm’s science-based targets. He engages regularly with the firm’s global teams to provide strategic leadership and ensure continuity and the successful progression on the firm’s strategy and commitments and help lead the industry’s carbon emissions response.
Daniel Jackson is a Managing Director and Chief Technology Officer at Starwood Capital Group. In this role, he directs the technology strategy, and has global responsibility for all IT initiatives and platforms for the firm and its affiliates. He previously served as SVP of Technology Services for Highbridge Capital Management, JP Morgan’s alternative investment manager. Dan started his career in technology while serving as a tactical electronic warfare analyst/cryptanalyst and Korean linguist within the Military Intelligence branch of the U.S. Army.
Thomas Jacobs is a dedicated Security Engineer at COPT Defense Properties. He has been with the company since 2014 serving as an IT Support Technician and Systems Administrator prior to his current role. With a strong focus on enhancing security measures and protecting critical infrastructure, Thomas has made significant contributions to the organization. His expertise includes implementing advanced security protocols, conducting thorough threat assessments, and developing robust security solutions to safeguard the company's assets.
Sandy Jacolow is the SVP, CTO at Empire State Realty Trust. He oversees technology innovation supporting Property Management, ESG, and PropTech activities. He also runs ESRT’s IT and OT Cybersecurity programs working closely with the Information Technology and Compliance teams to monitor and mitigate risk associated with today’s cyber threats. He also serves as Chairperson of the REBNY (Real Estate Board of New York) Cybersecurity committee.
As SVP, CIO, Colin Joynt oversees the platform, implementation, and services team at BXP. He brings more than 20 years of IT experience, particularly in the application space, and most recently at NavigatorCRE, an industry leading asset management and reporting solution built on Microsoft technologies. Prior to NavigatorCRE, Colin held SVP of Information Technology roles at Retail Properties of America (RPAI) and Kite Realty Group.
Arjun Kaicker is an Architect and Workplace Consultant with over 20 years experience specialising in innovative workplace design and technology, business and user needs evaluation and most recently, AI driven workplace optimisation. As Co-Head of Workplace Strategies at Zaha Hadid Architects and previously as Head of Workplace Consulting at Foster + Partners, he has worked on over 200 office projects in over 50 countries, including headquarters for Apple, Bloomberg, Comcast and HSBC.
Prabin Kanel is the Chief Information & Digital Officer at Beacon Communities LLC, where he oversees information systems strategy with a focus on innovation, digital transformation, data governance, cybersecurity, and telecommunications. Prior to joining Beacon, he served as a consultant to a digital biotech firm, shaping strategies for digital transformation and information security. He was also Chief Technology Officer at Framework Homeownership, where he led the development of digital homeownership tools and managed infrastructure, enterprise applications, cybersecurity, and business intelligence.
Tom Karounos, Global Head of Building & Hospitality Technology, leads strategic technology implementation and operational support for Tishman Speyer’s global real estate portfolio. With 25+ years of IT experience, including seven at Tishman Speyer, he brings extensive technical expertise and leadership across diverse enterprise environments. A key member of Tishman Speyer’s IT Leadership Team, Tom collaborates closely with the firm’s venture capital, construction, engineering, and property operations teams to drive innovation and efficiency.
With a career spanning over 12 years, Bart has built a reputation for utilizing innovative technology to fulfill the dreams of home builders and buyers. As the Corporate Sales Manager at LumenCache, he has spearheaded initiatives to make homes and buildings smart from the start. Bart also serves as the Outside Sales Manager for SunFarm Energy, Northwest Florida's Certified Tesla Solar Roof Installation partner. He is dedicated to fundamentally changing people’s relationship to energy, working hard to create a more affordable, intelligent, and sustainable built environment.
Akram Khalis (AK) serves as MHT’s CEO and Co-Founder of MHT's Inspextor smart building platform. As an entrepreneurial executive who currently holds three US technology patents, AK's background in technology, product, and general management allows him to bridge the gap between engineers and businesses to bring high quality solutions to market efficiently. Well regarded as an innovator and thought leader for his work developing PoE systems for lighting and smart building automation, AK has scaled and accelerated the growth of innovative technology for more than a decade.
Wayne Kim is a seasoned tech entrepreneur with 20+ years experience in leading digital infrastructure and cloud services ventures. As founder and CEO of Andorix, SirtNet and KIGA Labs, Wayne has pioneered Backup and Disaster Recovery as a Service, Media & Entertainment Collaboration platforms, and Intelligent/Smart Building Platforms across North America. He has also been instrumental in securing $80+ million in funding for Andorix and continues to drive innovation in the smart building industry.
Willie Kopp is the Head of NAM Enterprise Campus Edge Business, CNS Cloud and Network Services at Nokia. With over 15 years of experience in sales leadership, Willie has made significant contributions to the Networking and Wireless sectors. His journey began at Cisco Systems, where he developed cutting-edge Sports and Entertainment Solutions and most recently led the Americas Industrial IoT Sales. As a visionary leader, Willie has held key roles, including Director of Sales, IoT Americas, and CTO of Cisco Sports and Entertainment Solutions.
Jonathan Kroll is the Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Visitt, where he transforms complex operational challenges into intuitive, human-centered solutions. With a background rooted in entrepreneurial thinking and over a decade of experience working alongside building operators and property teams, Jonathan brings a hands-on approach to real estate technology. An early advocate for AI, Jonathan is passionate about using emerging technologies to empower—not replace—property teams. He focuses on reducing complexity, improving visibility, and enabling smarter service. His mission: to build technology that truly serves the people who use it.
Ken Kurz brings over 20 years of leadership and operational experience in cybersecurity, network technologies, information systems, risk mitigation and remediation, and technical project management to COPT. Supporting COPT as CIO since 2016, he has prior experience as the CISO for the University of Delaware, CISO for the University of Oklahoma, and CIO for the US Naval Academy Alumni Association & Foundation. He has also held various technical and leadership positions within the Department of Defense.
Kapil Lahoti serves as Chief Digital Technology Officer for CBRE's Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) business. In this capacity, Kapil and his team are responsible for developing digital strategies and delivering technology solutions to meet the needs of CBRE’s GWS business which includes Facilities Management, Project Management and Management Consulting. Kapil has more than 20 years of experience driving business value through transformative technology initiatives.
Sabine is a seasoned leader in strategic product management, currently serving as Senior Director of Product Management at Acuity Intelligent Spaces, where she drives the development and execution of Atrius DataLab’s product strategy. With over a decade at Google pioneering cutting-edge technology for workspace optimization, cybersecurity, sustainability, and operational excellence, she has a proven track record of advancing digital transformation in the built environment. A recognized industry leader, Sabine is committed to revolutionizing real estate through automation, AI, open-source collaboration, and standardized protocols, enabling fully integrated intelligent spaces that are safer, smarter, and greener.
Thano Lambrinos has over 15 years’ experience in the construction and building technologies space, and leverages digital transformation learnings across vertical markets to drive innovation and change in commercial real estate. At QuadReal, Thano works to deploy advanced technologies that redefine the way buildings are designed, built, managed, and how the occupants experience their environments. As Senior Vice President, he leads the Digital Buildings, Customer Experience & Innovation teams, and is focused on the development and execution of the digital strategy across a global real estate portfolio.
Todd Landry is a trailblazing technology strategist and wireless pioneer with decades of experience at the forefront of wireless infrastructure, enterprise architecture, and technology innovation. A visionary leader, Todd has built and launched game-changing product and service portfolios that have transformed the IT and communications landscape. Renowned for his ability to turn bold ideas into reality, he has a proven track record of driving breakthrough strategies, delivering cutting-edge solutions, and shaping the future of wireless connectivity.
Cecilia Li has more than 20 years of experience as a proven technology strategist and business transformation expert. She is currently the SVP, CIO of Urban Edge Properties, a REIT that focused on management, acquiring, development and redevelopment of retail real estate in urban communities. Urban Edge owns 73 properties totaling 17.2 million square feet of gross leasable area.
As an information technology leader, Michael MacMahon has more than 18 years of experience pioneering and managing complex IT solutions. Through a history of collaboration with Fortune 500 companies, he is accomplished in providing technology consulting, training, strategic fiscal planning, and implementation.
Archie Mahalingam is QuadReal's Director, Digital Buildings & Systems currently managing deployment of smart building innovation projects across its portfolios. He has worked as a mechanical consultant on the designs of new mechanical systems as well as a contractor on the deployment of building systems. Archie previously also led a team that deployed one of the largest commercial building automation projects in Canada.
Tammy Mahan is a Systems Analyst at Stanford University responsible for data integrations, ETL processes, and other data pipelines. She also administers the University’s main historian. Over the last 20 years, she has held multiple data and engineering roles across a variety of sectors, specializing in the design, implementation, and support of big data systems.
Nardo Manaloto is Managing Partner at Qubits Ventures, a global VC firm investing in early-stage startups advancing quantum technologies and next-gen computing. With 25+ years in AI, deep tech, and ecosystem development, he helps accelerate commercialization at the intersection of quantum, photonics, advanced materials, and AI. Nardo collaborates across academia, industry, and government to build innovation pipelines and is a dedicated advocate for ethical, impact-driven tech.
Hazel Mann is principal for Zetta Advisory, an organization that help real estate investment management firms transform with practical technology solutions. She is an entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in real estate operations and technology, specializing in translating emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain and IoT for practical applications in the future of work.
As the VP, Enterprise Architecture, Cybersecurity & Integrations, Marcel Marra is responsible for developing and executing the overall cybersecurity strategy for the organization, as well as overseeing the full lifecycle of planning, designing, and sustaining the company's enterprise technology solutions. With over 20 years of experience in the IT field, Marcel has worked across a variety of industries, giving him a deep understanding of the unique technology and security challenges faced by different sectors. This expertise enables him to drive business innovation while keeping organizations secure, a passion that fuels his work.
Joseph Martino has responsibility for Primaris’ overall Information Technology strategy. He has over 20 years of experience in Information Technology, Digital Transformation and Technology Operations. Joseph was previously consulting on ERP and major Digital Transformation projects and prior to that, Global VP of Information Technology at a market leader in connected vehicle and sensor technology.
Ted Maulucci is the CEO of SmartONE Solutions, a company at the forefront of creating digitally connected, smart living spaces for multi-unit communities. Under Ted’s leadership, SmartONE has become a leader in providing safe, efficient, and innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of developers, residents, and property managers. Prior to founding SmartONE, Ted served as CIO for a leading Toronto-based real estate developer, where he pioneered the development of the first smart community in the Greater Toronto Area. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including being named Private Sector Canadian CIO of the Year in 2016.
Mike Maxfield is SVP of Application Portfolio Management and PMO at Brookfield Properties, where he leads digital strategy and enterprise project management across North America. He focuses on optimizing systems, streamlining workflows, and aligning technology with business goals to drive efficiency and data-driven decision-making. Prior to joining Brookfield in 2012, he led product initiatives as a Senior Business Analyst for a global pension and benefits provider. Mike also serves as Chairman of the Board for OSCRE International and actively contributes to industry advisory groups focused on innovation and data standards.
Erin McDannald is CEO of Elevated and a visionary at the intersection of biology, technology, and design. She leads the development of intelligent building systems that support both human and planetary health. Her upcoming book explores how environments influence well-being, drawing from personal experience and scientific insight. Erin champions a future where design fosters resilience and sustainability—bridging natural rhythms with built environments to help people and places thrive together.
Zachary Menzer is the Vice President of Enterprise Initiatives at White Oak Partners, where he plays a key role in shaping and executing the firm’s strategic priorities across functions. With over a decade of experience at White Oak, Zachary has held roles spanning project management, operations, capital markets, and market research —gaining deep cross-functional expertise in the multifamily real estate investment space, including on-site leasing and management experience. Zachary Menzer is the Vice President of Enterprise Initiatives at White Oak Partners, where he plays a key role in shaping and executing the firm’s strategic priorities across functions. With over a decade of experience at White Oak, Zachary has held roles spanning project management, operations, capital markets, and market research —gaining deep cross-functional expertise in the multifamily real estate investment space, including on-site leasing and management experience. Zachary’s diverse experience and long tenure with a high-growth platform offer a unique lens on scaling operations, aligning strategy with capital goals, and driving innovation in institutional real estate.
Rob Murchison has over 20 years experience in strategy consulting, sales and design of technology to real estate developers and commercial businesses with expertise in networking, and software and data base applications. He is currently a Principal and Co-Founder of Intelligent Buildings, LLC, founded in 2004 to help customers manage risk, enhance occupant wellbeing, and improve performance.
Steven Nardini is Head of US Sales at Fifth Dimension, where he focuses on revenue growth and scaling high-performance teams. He previously led sales at proptech unicorn Placer.ai and held leadership roles at EXP Realty and Star Real Estate Agency. Blending deep real estate experience with tech expertise, Steven is known for his data-driven mindset, operational excellence, and ability to execute in fast-paced environments. He’s passionate about building elite sales teams that consistently deliver.
Josh Neutel is a 3rd year PhD candidate at Stanford studying Energy Science & Engineering. He has received his master’s from Stanford in Environmental Engineering, and a bachelor’s from the University of Southern California (USC) in Chemical Engineering. He is interested in the cross section of sustainability, data science, and innovation, and appreciates hands-on work with real-life applications. At Stanford, Josh collaborates with building operators to help make buildings on campus more energy efficient and flexible with a data-driven approach.
Devon Newton is a highly respected real estate professional with over two decades of experience in property management, currently serving as Vice President at Stiles. Her career spans successful operations in South Florida with an expanding strategic focus in the Carolinas. Devon now spearheads new business development in South Florida and the Carolinas and is responsible for building key customer relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and maintaining a thorough knowledge of current market conditions. Her dynamic creativity and strategic planning provide innovative solutions and services to existing clients and new business prospects.
Jacob Nicosia is a highly accomplished Technology Leader with extensive experience in managing large-scale technical projects and implementing cutting-edge technologies. He has deep expertise in intelligent building and smart real estate industries, excelling in project management, leadership, data governance, and automation system development. Jacob has a proven track record as a cross-functional SME in various sectors, including sustainability, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, power generation, and building energy analysis. He is passionate about delivering ROI-driven business value and value-added solutions to clients in both private and public sectors.
Simon Okunev oversee the strategy and execution of Tishman Speyer's Global Information Technology function. He has 25 years of experience building and leading teams, as well as developing and implementing innovative technologies and systems.
In his role as leader of Information Technology at Thompson Thrift, Don Oldham provides advisory, orchestration and integration services to advance the cause of innovation in obtaining business value from technology. He and his team are tasked with discovering new technology opportunities, reducing the cost of doing business, adding efficiency to business processes and providing secure, customer focused access to technology. They improve efficiencies through the development and implementation of innovative technologies. Don has over 24 years of technology experience within the real estate sector finding, implementing or developing new solutions to solve business problems.
Clint Osteen is Sr. Director of IT and is responsible for directing Granite’s information services and telecommunications across the portfolio. Prior to joining Granite, Clint spent 10 years in consulting, providing commercial real estate companies technology and business improvement services.
Chris Panto is a technology executive with over 30 years’ experience in helping customers navigate the world of IT. In his current role at MetroNational, Chris is responsible for providing leadership in the areas of cybersecurity, innovation, technology infrastructure, and corporate governance. MetroNational is a privately held real estate investment, development, and management firm with a portfolio that includes over 10 million square feet of commercial, retail, restaurant, multifamily, healthcare, and hospitality assets.
Marc Petock, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Lynxspring since 2012, leads corporate strategy, product vision, and brand development, including JENEsys Edge®, Onyxx®, and E2E™. Previously VP of Global Marketing at Tridium, he helped position Niagara as the industry’s open platform for smart buildings, growing its adoption from 18K to 475K instances. A recognized industry leader, Marc is an advocate for open standards, semantic tagging, data modeling, and OT cybersecurity. He is a frequent speaker, published author, and recipient of multiple industry awards. Marc also advises Realcomm and co-founded Project Haystack, where he serves on the Board.
Gaël Pirlot is Vice President at Inglett & Stubbs, an ENR Top 50 electrical contractor specializing in Data Centers, Healthcare, Commercial, Military, and Modular Construction. Over his career, Gaël has led complex projects spanning data centers, professional sports stadiums, and remote power generation facilities. His early involvement in hyperscale development revealed the disruptive potential of modular construction, not just in speed and scalability but in reshaping delivery models across industries. That insight led him to spearhead the launch of Inglett & Stubbs Modular, a strategic initiative focused on advancing offsite construction and redefining how electrical infrastructure is built.
Jeremy Poteet is the EVP of Technology at JBG SMITH where he leads a team of business minded technologists responsible for technology and innovation based transformative initiatives. He has over 20 years in real estate technology across many asset types in the real estate space and is passionate about the adoption of technology and leading others in solving complex process, technology, reporting, and organizational challenges.
Alireza Pourhashemi is the VP of the Project Management Office and is accountable for the successful delivery of enterprise projects. He aligns initiatives with organizational goals and ensures projects contribute to the overall business objectives. He provides leadership to the PMO team and adopts a culture of collaboration, empowerment, and accountability.
As Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Ashly leads PeakMade’s corporate marketing and property-level sales strategies. She oversees the Digital/Web Marketing, Customer Experience, Communications, Creative Marketing, Sales Strategy, and Hands-on Services teams to ensure a cohesive, innovative approach that drives brand success. A PeakMade veteran of 14 years, she began her career on-site in Huntsville, TX. Ashly is also dedicated to creating an inclusive, empowering workplace. She chairs Peak Link, the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, and is a founding member of The W Collective, a networking forum supporting women in student housing.
As VP of Information Technology at Woolbright Development, Luis Ramos is responsible for the corporate technology strategy, which includes the IT infrastructure and enterprise application platforms. Additionally, he is also responsible for implementing technology solutions toward the company’s existing business processes and helping create new efficiencies throughout the company's business model. Since his arrival in 2004, his team has been responsible for the constant development of various industry-focused proprietary software applications and tools. These award-winning technologies have fundamentally changed the way commercial real estate has been done at Woolbright.
Chris is a practiced Smart Building professional with 15 years of industry experience. An industry native, he began his career designing and programming control systems, then later moving on to support the Niagara Framework. In 2024, Chris joined JLLT as the Data and Network Architecture Lead on JLL’s Smart Building Advisory team bringing expertise in operational technology infrastructure and integration. He focuses on clearly defining the problem first, then aligning use cases that make technology work for the client.
Jay Richard-Yu, VP of Tech & Innovation at Jamestown, is a visionary leader dedicated to infusing the “wow” factor into Jamestown’s premier mixed-use properties and vibrant communities. With an unrelenting passion for the intersection of creativity, technology, and discovery, Jay champions elevating digital marketing, pioneering proptech solutions, and avant-garde innovation to craft unforgettable experiences that both delight and inspire. He drives innovation at Jamestown, ensuring its assets remain at the forefront of commercial real estate technology. From immersive LED screens and interactive kiosks to EV operations and advanced AV/IT solutions, Jay's initiatives enhance experiences, boost NOI, and improve efficiency. He continuously pushes technology’s boundaries to elevate guest and tenant engagement.
Cheyo Rogers is Co-CEO of Elevated, where he leads strategic growth and innovation in space automation. With experience across startups and Fortune 500 companies, he has delivered smart building solutions that merge lighting, controls, and analytics. Cheyo brings deep expertise in engineering, business, and tech leadership to help clients optimize performance and occupant experience.
Nick Romito is the CEO and co-founder of VTS, commercial real estate's leading leasing, marketing, and asset management platform. Under Nick’s leadership, the proptech unicorn just launched VTS Market, the CRE industry’s first integrated online marketing platform that enables landlords & their agency teams to market and lease their available space remotely for the first time. VTS manages more than 12 billion square feet of office, retail and industrial assets across 35 countries by more than 700 landlords and brokerage firms which includes CBRE, Blackstone, LaSalle Investment Management, Hines, Boston Properties & JLL.
Neil Ross is a seasoned technology and product leader with deep expertise in smart buildings, real estate innovation, and digital transformation. Spending the last 10 years in smart buildings at a few of the largest enterprises in the world, Neil has worked on the owner/operator, product and solution vendor, and technology platform provider sides of the business and has a proven track record of aligning emerging technologies with business outcomes. He is a trusted advisor, mentor, and thought leader in the smart buildings and proptech.
L.D. Salmanson has extensive experience founding, advising, and investing in leading private technology companies. Prior to founding Cherre, he served as Executive Director of Oppenheimer’s Private Shares Group, after Oppenheimer acquired GreenCrest Capital, a firm he co-founded to enable pre-IPO transactions in some of the largest private technology companies in the world, including Facebook, Twitter and Uber.
Jeannie Schneider is the SVP & CTO for Hines. She is responsible for all corporate and global real estate technologies, strategy, and standards. Jeannie has established a reputation as a versatile, strategic leader who has a very deep knowledge of real estate and how technology can transform the industry and Hines to create more value.
Andy Schonberger is currently Vice President of Client Services at Intelligent Buildings helping clients with advisory, site assessments and managed services. He has 15 years’ experience in facilities management and technology, ranging from large industrial to commercial office where he has held engineering, project management, advisory and hands-on implementation roles for organizations including Earth Rangers, Cisco Systems and the Canada Green Buildings Council (where he was Past Chair of the Toronto Chapter).
Brian Schwartz has over 20 years’ experience in information technology and is currently responsible for end user computing, cybersecurity and privacy at Macerich. Brian’s responsibilities include supporting the cyber efforts through property-based technology as well as corporate based infrastructure. Brian is passionate about leveraging technology to create value and enhance customer experience.
Bill Sechen is Managing Director at Harrison Street and is a member of the firm’s Management Committee. Bill leads initiatives focused on the technology, data, process and information security needs as well as leading initiatives for M&A activities.
Kenny Seaton is the Director of Central Plant Operations and Strategic Energy Projects for California State University, Dominguez Hills. He manages a team responsible for heating, cooling, and maintaining approximately 1.5 million square feet, as well as overseeing Central Plant equipment. In July of 2024, they installed the largest heat pump project on the West Coast (630 tons). This system reduced the university's Central Plant gas usage by 95%. Kenny's efforts have helped reduce GHG emissions by over 70% since 2018.
Justin Segal is an operations executive and entrepreneur specializing in real estate investment and management, startups, and technology. He is the founder of Stemmons Enterprise, a universal operations platform that allows companies to operate with pervasive data and unparalleled agility. He often speaks on topics involving enterprise data, analytics, and user experience.
Having spent most of his career within the Distech Controls organization with 15 years of experience in the industry, Ryan Sen most recently served as Director of Sales where he was in charge of the sales channel for the entire Canada. He has previously held a multitude of management roles within the organization. Ryan has also performed Business Development for the Distech Controls Energy Services division and briefly supported the Canadian Market in a Regional Sales Management role.
With 20+ years of experience in technology and innovation, Michael Sherwood drives NVIDIA's business growth initiatives in alignment with company goals. Formerly the City of Las Vegas’ CITO, he led collaboration and workforce development to build smarter, more sustainable communities through cutting-edge advancements.
Tom Shircliff is a co-founder of Intelligent Buildings, a smart real estate service firm founded in 2004. Intelligent building provides services for technology strategy, vendor risk management and portfolio decarbonization.
Sarabjit Singh leads Five Rivers IT in delivering industry leading Cybersecurity, Compliance and IT solutions. He brings over 22 years of leadership experience in the IT services industry spanning several verticals. With an engineering pedigree, Sarabjit brings together a unique combination of technology expertise and business acumen providing a 360-degree perspective to their clients. His focus at Five Rivers IT is helping their clients realize their strategic vision with practical solutions.
Steven Song is the founder and CEO of Diald, an AI-platform that streamlines real estate underwriting through automated investment memos. He previously founded SCAAA, an international architecture studio, and Axle Companies, a real estate investment firm focused on hospitality.
Jonathan Spooner brings a trove of experience in technology, innovation and marketing to the Stacks+Joules team. Having led innovation teams at Intersection (a division of Alphabet) and launching multiple high-tech businesses, he has a wide breadth of knowledge. His entrepreneurial passion has led him to plan, budget, oversee and lead all sizes of businesses across the span of his career.
Mike Sroka is the CEO and Co-Founder of Dealpath, the real estate industry’s leading deal management platform. Prior to Dealpath, Mike spent over a decade growing venture-backed software companies, including Fanhood (acq. by FOX), Zynga, and OneSeason (acq. by Cantor Fitzgerald). He started his career at Hudson Advisors, managing agent for the Lone Star Funds.
Helane Stein is EVP, CIO of Brixmor responsible for the overall technology vision, strategy, systems and infrastructure that support business operations. She leads the implementation of transformational solutions that drive organizational efficiency, increase productivity, enhance collaboration and deliver results. Brixmor owns and operates a high-quality, national portfolio of open-air shopping centers. Its 632 retail centers comprise of approximately 64 million square feet of prime retail space in established trade areas.
Nicholas Stello is the SVP, Digital Infrastructure for New-York based Vornado Realty Trust. His responsibilities include leading the company's IT initiatives as they relate to in-building cellular, networking, cyber security and smart building connectivity. Vornado’s unique assets have enabled Nick to both differentiate and increase the value of its properties by structuring innovative agreements with national cellular carriers and other related technology providers.
David Stifter has spent over two decades at the nexus of real estate, technology, and finance. In 2020, he founded PredictAP to address a gap in the real estate AP automation market with an AI-powered invoice capture solution. He previously served as Managing Director at Digital Bridge (formerly Colony Capital), overseeing data architecture, process improvement, and accounting and finance transition projects for major acquisitions.
Luis Suau is the Chief Business Officer at Sinclair Digital. With 40 years of overall IT experience; ,26 of them at Cisco, Luis previously worked as a Technical Leader in Cisco's IOT Business Unit and was a key member in developing Cisco's Digital Ceiling and Digital Building Solutions. Luis helped to engineer the highly innovative Marriott Sinclair Hotel which leverages the use of Lithium-Ion Energy Storage, Digital Electricity, POE and USB-C. After its completion in 2020, Luis left Cisco to pursue his passion of expanding the scope of Digital Building Systems with a goal of developing a Building as a DC Microgrid.
Nada Sutic is the Vice President, Sustainability, Innovation and National Programs at Epic Investment Services. In this role, Nada is responsible for strategy and implementation of sustainability, digital building transformation and numerous operational programs with a focus on implementation through building operations and performance across the company’s diverse portfolio. With 15+ years of experience in commercial real estate, focused on sustainability, operational excellence and property management, Nada leads with a drive for successful implementation and critical measurement.
Rob Teel is responsible for product development, support and implementations of Yardi's Commercial Property Management and Investment Management suites. Rob joined Yardi Systems in 2003, and he has nearly 20 years of property and financial systems implementation experience.
Brian Turner, CEO of Buildings IOT, is leading the disruption of how mart building systems are viewed, maintained, and reported. For more than two decades, he has worked with some of the world’s largest property owners and facility managers in developing lasting strategies for complex integrations and enabled solutions to the problems found, fuels his passion for making smart buildings as they should be to show the world what they can be.
Yael Urman is Silverstein’s Chief Information Officer and oversees the company’s technology initiatives and strategy. Its Technology Group transforms creative ideas into customer products and services that do not exist anywhere else. The team partners with startups and entrepreneurs from its own Silvertech Ventures to experiment and leverage new technologies while supporting young companies. The Technology Group uses its diverse background, working alongside industry leaders, to translate ideas into practical functions. Yael has previously held various leadership roles in Energy, IT services, Biotech and Pharma.
Brandon Van Orden is SVP & CIO for Cousins Properties Incorporated based in Atlanta. He is responsible for Cousins technical vision and all aspects of the Information Technology organization including people, strategy, development and operations. Prior to joining Cousins in 2016, Brandon was VP of Global Applications for Novelis and prior to that he was with GE Energy for 12 years where he held a number of IT leadership roles increasing in responsibility after he graduated from the GE Information Technology Leadership Program in 2003.
Tim Vogel is Vice President of Connected Solutions at KMC Controls, leading the vision and execution of cloud connected, cyber resilient building automation platforms such as KMC Commander and KMC Dome. Since 2016, he’s driven global OT/IT channel strategies and partnerships across IoT, energy, and PropTech verticals. As an advisor to the non-profit Building Cyber Security, Tim drives discussion and promotion of cyber resiliency frameworks for critical infrastructure.
Travis Vokey is SVP, Technology & Innovation of Allied Properties REIT, an owner-operator of distinctive urban workspaces in Canada’s major cities. In this role he is responsible for the strategy and delivery of technology investment and innovative solutions. With a diverse industry background from the Canadian Forces to BlackBerry and more, he brings a user-centric perspective to challenge the status quo and deliver real results across the organization.
Bob Voss is a Distinguished Engineer in Panduit Corporate Research and Development, driving technological innovation. Focused on industrial and building automation, his expertise spans shepherding of groundbreaking technologies such as Single Pair Ethernet and Fault Managed Power. Bob plays a key role in setting global engineering standards in IEEE, TIA, NEMA, ODVA, and NFPA, as well as nurturing strategic technology partnerships. Bob is the chairman and one of the founders of the FMP Alliance.
Goutham Vulpala is currently AVP, Enterprise Applications at Phillips Edison & Company. In his current role, Goutham manages a team responsible of enterprise application architecture, development, and data analytics. Previously, he was with Citibank where he was the application development group manager responsible for ATM application development and customer survey data analytics. Goutham also was with Cincinnati Bell where he held various senior positions in IT.
Donny Walker leads Newcomb Boyd's Intelligent Building Systems group. He has over 20 years of engineering, project management, and partner-in-charge responsibilities in communications, security and integrated building automation systems. His experience includes aviation facilities, health care buildings, judicial facilities, advanced technology developments, military installations, data centers, mixed-use developments, performing arts facilities and college campuses. With prowess designing technologically sophisticated campuses, his background encompasses over 150 projects specializing in an integrated design with network-enabled systems.
Andrew Weakland is the Director of Systems Development for W. P. Carey, a net-lease REIT focused on providing long-term sale-leaseback and build-to-suit solutions for companies in the U.S. and Northern and Western Europe. Andrew specializes in bringing emerging technologies into the real estate space to drive competitive advantage while maintaining the cohesiveness of the overall enterprise technology footprint.
Alex Welk has spent the last thirteen years in the facilities industry, building and leading large multi-site maintenance and managing service programs for brands like 7-Eleven, ExxonMobil, McDonald’s, Michaels, and more. Alex has been instrumental in streamlining processes, driving program value, expanding relationships, growing revenue, and saving his customers millions of dollars. Before facilities, he owned and operated several successful entrepreneurial start-ups and held roles in advertising and print marketing. Alex is an industrial engineer by trade and a passionate process improvement enthusiast.
Marguerite Westbrook is VP, Technology at EDENS, a nationally leading retail real estate owner, operator and developer. She oversees creating value for the company by improving user productivity through collaboration and data analytics, as well as automation and integration of EDENS’ systems. She is responsible for providing solutions, direction and leadership to align the technology strategy with the company's goals and objectives.
Jim Whalen serves as SVP and CIO/CTO responsible for the direction and implementation of technology and applications at Boston Properties, a fully integrated real estate investment trust and one of the largest owners and developers of Class-A office properties in the United States. Over a 27-year IT career, Jim has supported real estate operations ranging from residential, construction, public housing, commercial office and retail.
Justin Williams is a veteran network engineer and OT/IT cybersecurity architect with over 20 years of technical leadership experience. He specializes in designing secure network infrastructures, converged OT/IT security architectures, and digital infrastructure solutions for intelligent buildings. His expertise spans enterprise networking, OT security frameworks, cybersecurity resilience strategies. Justin leads initiatives defining network and cybersecurity standards and best practices for digital infrastructure in smart building environments, with particular focus on securing operational technology and network systems against emerging threats.
Alex Wolkomir leads McKinsey’s global efforts to harness digital, analytics, and design to transform the real estate sector. He advises developers, investors, operators, and proptech firms on digital strategy, innovation, AI adoption, product development, and operating model redesign. With a passion for reimagining the built environment, Alex also works at the intersection of real estate and financial services, helping clients optimize data use and modernize transaction ecosystems, including payments and mortgages.
Terry Wood is SVP of National Facilities Design and Construction at Kaiser Permanente. He is accountable for a $16 billion capital program that plans, designs, and builds new hospitals and medical office buildings and maintains the mission readiness of Kaiser Permanente’s 100 million-square-foot real estate portfolio including more than 1,100 facilities. Terry oversees Kaiser Permanente’s pathbreaking renewable energy and decarbonization efforts. These focus on reducing energy intensity and pursuing green power opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Before joining Kaiser Permanente in 2015, he led HPs Corporate Real Estate Globally.
As Managing Partner, SVP of Strategy & Business Development, Lisa Woods is responsible for developing Realcomm's strategic relationships with the technology companies that participate in the company's conferences, seminars and CIO events. Prior to joining Realcomm, Lisa spent 10 years working with building owners and managers, providing technology solutions in telecommunications, access control and security.
Jay Wratten is the Executive Digital Lead at WSP in the U.S. and the global smart places lead for WSP. Jay’s appointment is aligned with WSP’s global initiative to accelerate their shift to delivering digital-first solutions across its own and client's businesses. In his Digital lead role, he is responsible for ensuring that WSP in the U.S. establishes a clear digital strategy supported by a robust digital leadership structure, demonstrates excellence in applying digital tools to project delivery, and continues to strengthen revenue and margin through our digital offerings. Additionally, Jay ensures the company is aligned globally to drive their digital strategy forward by sharing digital expertise and best practice between regions.
Leon founded Bueno in 2013, with a vision of using technology and his engineering expertise to improve building energy performance. His vision has seen rapid growth and success. Prior to Bueno, Leon worked as an Energy Efficiency Consultant in the Australian commercial property sector and was involved in the development of the world’s first legislated Building Performance Standard (NABERS).
Founder of Realcomm Conference Group, an education organization that produces Realcomm, IBcon and CoRE Tech, the world's leading conferences on technology, automated business solutions, intelligent buildings and energy efficiency for the commercial and corporate real estate industry. As CEO, Jim interacts with the largest companies globally pertaining to some of the most advanced and progressive next generation real estate projects under development.
Paul joined Yardi in 2012 with a background in digital marketing and a focus on driving innovation to meet the needs of property management companies and their customers. He works closely with Yardi’s clients to improve the multifamily rental experience. This includes introducing new technologies and concepts such as AI bots, virtual leasing assistants and additional use of artificial intelligence and automation for ID and income verification. His contributions have been instrumental in the early and ongoing success of the RentCafe suite of products. Prior to joining Yardi, Paul spent five years as a General Sales Manager at For Rent Media Solutions. Earlier positions included working as a Community Director with UDR and as a Property Manager for The Related Group of Florida, TGR Management.
With 18 years of experience in deregulated energy markets and sustainability, Seth Zuskin is an industry veteran committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions (and creative funding). Having worked across various sectors, he possesses deep expertise in energy procurement, project funding, and carbon reduction strategies. Seth has successfully helped businesses navigate the complexities of deregulation while optimizing energy usage and costs. Passionate about environmental impact, he integrates sustainable practices into energy management strategies, driving both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. With a track record of delivering results, Seth continues to lead initiatives that contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.


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