My first job in the commercial real estate industry occurred when First Capital Financial Corporation, a real estate syndication firm, was looking for a writer in its marketing department. The company was owned by one of Sam Zell’s umbrella companies.
With no previous experience in real estate, but waiting for my big opportunity, I interviewed for and was offered the job.
Single, in my mid-20s and working in Downtown Chicago. If that wasn’t enough, I could also say I worked for Sam Zell, no matter how faint or non-existent the dotted line.
At one point I had the opportunity, along with my boss, the vice president of marketing, to meet with Sam to talk about the firms’ real estate acquisition philosophy. Although I no longer have a copy of that brochure, I still consider it one of my career highlights. A big reason for that was the ability to meet with Sam. In his office. And I soaked it all in.
Sometime later, First Capital sent me to a conference in New Jersey. Along with a colleague, I stayed in what was referred to as one of Sam’s New York apartments.
We also met with Sam to develop materials for the launch of First Capitals’ Grave Dancer Fund, named after his well-deserved moniker.
What an introduction to commercial real estate.
Years later, while leading the Annual Commercial Real Estate Forecast for REjournals, we were fortunate enough to secure Sam as the keynote speaker. He took part in a “fireside chat” with Deb Cafaro. Attendance soared. Sponsorships climbed. During Sam and Deb’s chat there was no one milling around, looking for more coffee or taking a call. Everyone sat and listened, hanging on every word Sam had to say as the industry looked to bust loose after the Great Financial Crisis.
After they spoke, and before they returned to their dealmaking world, they graciously stopped for a picture. A little memento with an icon (or two) whose presence in my career has made a few decades in commercial real estate memorable.
Rest in peace, Sam, and thanks for the launching pad.