Simmons, Longest-Serving Member of REEC Board, to Lead Efforts in Empowering Executives in CRE as New Chair
Asland Capital Partners, a leading owner and operator of multifamily, mixed-use, and retail assets in revitalizing sub-markets throughout the U.S., announced today that CEO & Founder James H. 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, Mr. Simmons will succeed Basis Investment Group CEO Tammy Jones as Chair. Mr. Simmons has served as Vice Chair of the organization since 2019. “I am honored to be named Chair of the Real Estate Executive Council’s Board of Directors,” said James H. Simmons III, CEO & Founder of Asland Capital Partners. “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, Mr. 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 Mr. Simmons led the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone Development Corporation.
Asland currently manages a $1 billion+ portfolio, focusing on multifamily, mixed-use, and retail assets in emerging submarkets of major U.S. cities, with an emphasis on revitalizing undervalued communities. Over the past decade, Mr. Simmons has been instrumental in managing and structuring diverse real estate transactions, including portfolio and single asset acquisitions. He serves on the boards of Regency Centers, (ABC) and Scion Health (as Chair of the Compliance Committee) as well as several nonprofit boards. Mr. Simmons has also invested in many early-stage companies across proptech, fintech, healthcare, and sports. A dedicated mentor to first-generation college students, he frequently speaks at industry events.
Founded in 2003, REEC has grown to include over 200 members, primarily senior executives and rising stars in the commercial real estate sector with at least ten years of experience. Its members are professionals with careers spanning investment, management, leasing, financing, and property development. REEC hosts annual retreats, roundtables, and other networking events nationwide to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. Additionally, the organization awards grants to regional real estate groups that align with its mission, as well as providing scholarships and job placement opportunities for aspiring industry professionals. At its core, REEC is committed to promoting opportunities across all facets of the real estate industry.
Gina Baker Chambers, President of MCB Real Estate, will serve as Vice Chair. Throughout her time on the REEC Board, Mrs. 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 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.
