Challenge
Seth was hired as a COO for an aggressively fast-growing local commercial development firm with a broad range of property categories in its portfolio. The original role the organization had scoped called for a VP of Construction and Development, but Seth’s talents were so broad and deep, and the cultural fit so strong, our client realized how much more value he could provide in a higher-level role. Seth has done an admirable job being the “connective tissue” between various functions and needs of the organization. Here’s more on the organization’s lofty goals and Seth’s background:
Seth’s development group is in the process of developing both the Wetlab renovation of an existing warehouse on the inner east side, as well as a ten-story manufactured plywood panel biotech high rise adding 300,000 square feet of lab space to Portland. In addition, they are working on multifamily in Gresham, mixed-use on the Vancouver Waterfront, entertainment in Oregon City, and it is this diversity which appealed to Seth. Having spent the last ten years of his career in Portland focused on private sector development, he has a BS in Civil Engineering, his CCM, PMP and LEED AP certifications, is a past president of the Oregon Chapter of CMAA, and is passionate about being responsible for the design and construction teams focused on project execution. He’s worked with Business Oregon on HIOP grants as well as PhRMA and OTRADI/OBI to secure funds to produce a shared equipment to maximize the capital outlay of emerging, local ventures in this sector.
Results
There were several gaps that needed filling at the organization, namely needing further full cycle development and construction expertise, as well as expertise in multiple complex product categories. The team also benefited from Seth’s expertise in ensuring timely deliverables. The biotech offerings are “going off without a hitch” — they are pressing forward with finished permits and will have tenants on board soon. Timelines have been expedited or are on track. One property will be an attractive offering for those interested in capital gains deferral through the Opportunity Zone status. The impressive, complex mass timber offering (another opportunity zone) in Vancouver has ramped up and will break ground in February or March.
“Our goal is to produce great product and to be the development firm that firms nationally choose if they want to build in Portland – we are your ‘Go-To’ across a vast range of product categories.” Of course, the team is especially proud of their offerings in the biotech arena and plan to be a major player for sorely needed wet lab space in Portland.
Seth also has been an effective partner and mentor to others on the team due to his broad experience in full-cycle construction and development, and his thoughtful, diplomatic style.
Of Acumen, Seth states “you’re the first recruiters who I actually followed through with — everywhere else I’ve landed has been through word of mouth. You left me with a very positive impression – you folks know how to put the people together.”