Each year, Midwest Real Estate News inducts a new class into its Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. Here is a look at the career of one of our new inductees, Adam Marshall, senior managing director with the Chicago office of Newmark.
During a commercial real estate career that has stretched nearly two decades, Newmark’s Adam Marshall has built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and dedicated industrial specialists in the Chicago market.
Marshall’s peers say that this industry veteran has an uncanny ability to close even the toughest deals. They also cite his in-depth knowledge of the industrial sector, commitment to his clients and relentless work ethic as just three of the reasons for his success.
It’s not surprising, given Marshall’s standing in the industry, that he now boasts a roster of loyal and satisfied clients. His clients know that Marshall will never be outworked, and that no one has a better track record of guiding clients to the best possible outcomes.
Marshall has his own thoughts on his career. He says that one way to stay busy in the commercial real estate industry is to always adjust to the changes in this business.
“Becoming familiar with change is an important attribute to be successful in commercial real estate,” Marshall said. “Also, being seen as a trusted advisor and developing strategies to stay ahead of the market while remaining focused on the most desirable outcomes is also important. Success requires attention to details, listening, reading, learning from mentors, getting involved with professional and civic organizations and enthusiasm and respect for the work we do every day.”
What has kept Marshall in this industry for 20 years? Marshall is one of the lucky ones: He not only excels in his profession, he also loves what he does.
“What I enjoy most is creating the best solutions and outcomes based on creative problem-solving, market expertise and long-term relationships for both clients and the commercial real estate community,” Marshall said.
Like all commercial real estate veterans boasting long careers, Marshall has faced challenges. The key, though, has been that Marshall has faced these challenges head-on. He didn’t hide nor run away from them.
“The greatest challenges in this business tend to occur in times of uncertainty,” Marshall said. “Whether it was the Great Recession, pandemic or global supply chain disruptions, these situations changed the momentum of the market. Staying optimistic and informed helps guide you through these periods of change, and there tends to be tremendous opportunity that follows.”
Marshall hasn’t hesitated to contribute to the commercial real estate industry, either. He has held board positions with the Association of Industrial Real Estate Brokers, an organization that he served as president in 2017; and the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors’ Chicago chapter, where he has been a board member since 2019 and for which he served as president in 2021.
In 2016, the Society of Industrial and Office Realtors rewarded Marshall for closing the largest industrial investment sale transaction of the year. Marshall also earned the Frank Mahoney Award of Excellence from the Association of Industrial Real Estate Brokers in 2008.
Outside of the office, Marshall says that he enjoys traveling to new places, sailing and spending time with his family and friends. He also supports several philanthropic organizations, including the Big Shoulders Fund and Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
