2024 Ones to Watch Industry Leaders: Charles Russell, Harris Beach PLLC

“Since 2008, Charles (Chip) Russell has led the Harris Beach commercial real estate practice group, which represents commercial developers, institutional lenders, corporations, partnerships, not-for-profits and other entities in the development, finance, sale, purchase and leasing of commercial real estate.” - Michael Magee, Business Development Specialist at Harris Beach PLLC.

In the last 12 months what accomplishment are you most proud of? I have worked collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team of attorneys to close on two distressed mall transactions. It is rewarding to see everyone use their time and talents in different and productive ways to accomplish a common goal. Not only did we achieve terrific results for our client, we also gave these distressed malls a new lease on life with a redevelopment plan which will transform the communities in which they serve.

Best advice for new leaders: Listen more and act on what you hear.

Best books, podcasts, or apps for aspiring leaders: I enjoy listening to the NPR podcast entitled “How I Built This”, a podcast about innovators, entrepreneurs, idealists and the stories about the movements they built.