Marking the first non-family member leader in the company's more than 90-year history, Binswanger announced Jeffrey Hipschman as chief executive officer Aug. 12.
Effective immediately, the former and longtime CBRE New Jersey market leader succeeds David Binswanger at the Philadelphia-based full-service commercial real estate firm. The former CEO will transition to managing director and board member, meanwhile, joining longtime partner Jeff Binswanger in continuing to guide the business.
The transition in leadership is also significant in Binswanger's evolution from a family-owned to an employee-owned company , which began in 2017.
“There comes a time in any family business when a set of independent eyes can bring new perspectives that not only honor the legacy and values that have been created, but also imagine other horizons that were not prioritized,” commented David Binswanger.
Added Jeff Binswanger, “Mr. Hipschman brings great perspective from two of the biggest firms in the industry and his energy and personality are infectious. We can’t wait to see where he can take us.”
Hipschman's career covers more than three decades at the forefront of professional advisory companies from the financial services and commercial real estate sectors. Since 2009, he's served as senior managing director and market leader for CBRE's New Jersey offices. In the role, he was responsible for leading all services lines in addition to guiding industrial and logistics strategy.
Before CBRE, Hipschman led operations and technology intiatitves at Savills Inc. predecessor Julien J. Studley Inc. He began his career with stints at Salomon Brothers and Lehman Brothers as an equity trading systems specialist.
'An honor and special challenge'
Looking ahead, Binswanger says Hipschman plans to usher in a new era of innovation, collaboration and growth.
“I’m thankful to join the Binswanger team to aggressively focus on
delivering unique real estate solutions to clients across the country and around the globe,” Hipschman said. “With an energized employee ownership perspective and Binswanger’s distinct culture of creativity and collaboration, we look forward to growing our company and leveraging the deep expertise of our colleagues to the benefit of our clients and partners.”
The company's prowess covers multiple disciplines, including engineering, life sciences, aerospace, food and logistics. Hipschman will lead the company’s U.S. and global growth and expansion from its Philadelphia headquarters in addition to serving on the firm’s board of directors, Binswanger said.
“Following generations of Binswanger company leaders is an honor and special challenge," Hipschman said. "The family’s impact on the company, our industry, and the Philadelphia community is legendary and indelible. I’m thrilled to become David and Jeff’s colleague and protg in building the next chapter of the Binswanger legacy of unrivaled industry specialization combined with the personal perspective and devotion that only an employee-owned company can provide.”
Local CBRE changes
Separately,
CBRE also announced executive changes Aug. 12.
Following her promotion, Kelly
Conaway will serve as managing director for the greater Philadelphia region. The position includes oversight of Philadelphia, Delaware, southern New Jersey, the Lehigh Valley and Central Pennsylvania. Previously,
Conaway led the Northeast's marketing department for nearly 20 years, according to CBRE.
CBRE's announcement did not mention Hipschman or the New Jersey market leader position.
“During her tenure at CBRE, Kelly has gained recognition and accolades for her strategic leadership and has risen to Director of Marketing for the Northeast. As Director, she has supported business development, existing account management and brand expansion to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients. In addition, her keen focus on driving revenue growth and market share makes this move a natural progression,” commented Greater Philadelphia Market Leader Rija Beares. “Diane Weinberg and I look forward to working with Kelly to continue to drive growth in the region.”
At CBRE,Conaway serves as a mentor in both the EMPOWER and EMERGE mentoring programs. She is also active in the CBRE’s Women’s Network and Black Excellence, among others.
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