Article
Meet Michael Case, Elevating Office Leasing in Downtown Toronto
October 1, 2021 3 Minute Read
As summer ended and businesses refocused on a strong finish to 2021, CBRE hit the ground running with two key additions to the management team in the Greater Toronto Area. Daniel Reid is the new Managing Director in our Toronto North office and Michael Case is teaming up with Jon Ramscar to lead the Toronto Downtown office.
We recently caught up with Michael to hear about real estate opportunities, lessons learned over the years and advice for the next generation of sales professionals.
How do you see your mission to enhance tenant representation and agency leasing as Toronto Downtown's new Managing Director?
I’m loving every minute of this new role. My high-level vision for the Office Leasing Team is to build upon our culture of winning, increase adoption of our technology tools to better service our clients; and help our people elevate their careers and achieve their goals. Ultimately that is what success looks for CBRE and our clients.
You’ve worked in brokerage for years, what is it like to transition to CBRE?
I have always admired CBRE from a distance. There are a lot of great, talented people here including many of the future leaders of our industry. Needless to say, CBRE has kept me on my toes in competition my entire career, and I am thrilled to now be a part of the best real estate services team in the business.
What are the biggest challenges and opportunities in Toronto office leasing right now?
The challenges get a lot of airtime, but I do see plenty of opportunity. Every company in the city is currently re-evaluating their real estate needs. As groups adjust their office footprints, it will be hard to hit the bullseye in this dynamic environment. Some will shed too much space while others may retain too much. Workplace strategy has never been more important, and our advisors will help companies adjust and correct over the next few years.
Do you remember an early deal that had a big impact on your career?
Very early in my career I was fortunate to land a ~40,000 square foot mandate. I worked very hard on this deal for many months, and as we approached lease execution, I was feeling on top of the world. Plot twist: The deal then unexpectedly died, and the office requirement was cancelled. It was a heartbreaking experience, but it forced me to pick up the pieces, work even harder, and certainly made me appreciate this business even more. There is no replacement for hard work and determination. You’re going to have humbling experiences, learn from them. Even when things are going well, stay humble and focused on your clients.
What was the greatest advice you've received working in the world of real estate?
Your reputation is everything. Always be professional, do the right thing for your clients, and success will follow.
What is one thing your colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?
Dangerous question! I’ll have to go with my taste in music, which is on the “heavier” rock side, much to my family’s dismay. I am looking forward to experiencing live music again soon.
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