Amherst, NY According to Uniland Development Co., Michael Montante will succeed his father, Carl Montante, as the company’s CEO. Carl, who founded the company in 1974, remains executive chairman of the family-run privately held firm. 

Michael has worked in various capacities at Uniland for 30 years, most recently as its vice president of development. Some of his projects in Western New York include Avant, Embassy Suites Buffalo, The Delaware North Building, Catholic Health Administration Building and Training Center, Citi and GEICO. His development team is also responsible for expanding the company’s developments into multifamily residential, retail, mixed use, hospitality and co-working. 

“After 30 years of working with my father and Uniland associates, I look forward to continuing to lead Uniland’s success into the future and expanding its footprint,” Michael said. 

Carl Montante Jr., Michael’s brother, continues his leadership role as vice president of strategic initiatives, marketing and human resources, and Laura Zaepfel, his sister, remains vice president of corporate relations. 

“Mike is knowledgeable in every aspect of real estate, its development and its management,” said Carl. “He is well known in the community. He has held leadership positions with several community organizations and national and regional real estate trade groups. He has worked by my side for several years and is well prepared for the role of CEO.” 

Michael’s leadership positions outside the company include serving as president of the Buffalo Renaissance Foundation Board, board member of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, president of Upstate New York Chapter of NAIOP, among others.

 member of the Business Advisory Council at Canisius College’s Richard Wehle School of Business, a Canisius College Trustee, and a board member of the Darwin Martin House. 

Carl remains active in the organization, and in the business and philanthropic community. He will continue to explore new business opportunities for the company and ensure that every associate embodies the guiding principles he set in place many years ago: Integrity, Professionalism, Excellence, Innovation, Customer Focus and Team Focus.