Manhattan, NY Asland Capital Partners' CEO and founder James Simmons III has been appointed chair of the board of directors for the Real Estate Executive Council (REEC), a professional trade association dedicated to advancing the interests of minority executives in the commercial real estate industry.
Effective January 1, 2025, Simmons succeeded Basis Investment Group CEO Tammy Jones as chair. Simmons has served as vice chair of the organization since 2019.
Gina Baker Chambers, president of MCB Real Estate, will serve as vice chair. Throughout her time on the REEC board, Baker Chambers has held several key leadership positions, including chair of the fundraising committee, chair of the nominations and governance committee, and chair of the board’s search committee.
“I am honored to be named chair of the Real Estate Executive Council’s board of directors,” said Simmons. “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Tammy Jones for her outstanding leadership and commitment during her tenure as chair, her dedication has been instrumental in advancing REEC’s mission. As I step into this role, I look forward to building on her legacy and working alongside our incredible members to continue fostering opportunities, expanding and deepening our partnerships across the real estate ecosystem, and empowering our executives to reach new heights in their careers.”
Recently named a “Notable Black Leader” by Crain’s New York Business, Simmons currently leads Asland Capital Partners’ investment committee and oversees the firm’s operations. He launched Asland in 2019 after more than 20 years in senior real estate investment management roles at Ares Management, AREA Property Partners, and Apollo Real Estate Advisors. Previously Simmons led the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation.
“I am deeply honored to join forces with James Simmons to advance REEC’s mission and unlock opportunities, cultivate connections and drive innovation across the industry,” said Baker Chambers. “We have a tremendous opportunity to leverage the expertise, unique experiences and perspectives that executives of color bring to the table.”
As president of MCB Real Estate, a nationwide institutional investment firm and developer with $3 billion in assets under management, Gina brings unparalleled expertise in strategic growth and operational leadership. Her prior role as senior managing director at Artemis Real Estate Partners saw her raise over $3 billion in institutional capital and spearhead initiatives like the artemis emerging manager platform, advancing opportunities for diverse operating partners. Baker Chamber’s dedication to advancing economic opportunity and leadership extends beyond REEC through her work with organizations such as the Toigo Alumni Endowment and Generation Hope.
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