Rick Amon

What is your role at Avison Young?

VP, REMS - I am primarily responsible for the project/construction management of capital projects and tenant improvements, and also manage the engineering department in Raleigh/Durham and Chapel Hill, NC.

How did you get into commercial real estate?

I was working my way through college and accepted an entry level engineering position to make ends meet. With each year of college passing, the Regional Director, Mike Biddle, felt that I had the potential to become a building manager. And, by the time I graduated, I was the general manager of a 1.5MSF mixed-use facility in downtown Atlanta. The short answer is that this happened quite by accident, but I love the business and have now been in CRE for 20+ years, and love it just as much as when I graduated college.

Share an example of a time you delivered economic, social and environmental value to your clients, colleagues or community?

When I represented TIAA-CREF, their Atlanta portfolio was underperforming economically. I was hired to implement a plan that would improve the operations and, by extension, make the property more competitive for our Landlord Rep team. In brief, I selected a building engineer capable of reprogramming the HVAC system, leading to a 31% reduction in energy. Next, I issued an RFP for every major contract (security, landscaping, elevators, and HVAC), achieved economy of scale pricing, and garnered a $288,000 annual savings. This combined with the $230,000 energy savings, produced a $518,000 bottom line increase and, when capped at 7%, a $7.4MM increase in value.

How do you see our Purpose reflected in your day-to-day work?

I specifically see the AY purpose reflected in the respect shown for people, no matter what title or position. There is always an acknowledgement of the efforts of not only a person, but a team of people working collaboratively.

How has Avison Young supported you in bringing Brand Purpose to life in your work?

The support and empowerment I have received from our Managing Director, John Linderman, has been unsurpassed. His leadership and mentoring have provided the foundation for me to better serve our clients and our team.