As most of you know, DeAnna Rivas is retiring from her 10-year role as our NorCal chapter director, effective January 1, 2016. Lisa Brown has been handling public relations efforts for the chapter the past year and will be stepping into the big shoes that DeAnna leaves. We wish DeAnna the very best, and will miss her energy and care of our Norcal Chapter.

Lisa joins the chapter with a wealth of experience in the commercial real estate industry. She spent 10 years with NAIOP, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, as the executive/communications director. During that time, she managed all events from soup to nuts; developed and executed strategic branding initiatives; created and managed internal communications systems from the ground up; established a strong web presence to drive membership, volunteer support and awareness; managed consistent branding on the web/apps, and in messaging, collateral and industry events; supported the organization’s mission, vision and core values; ensured continued member satisfaction through all content and contact; and facilitated media, government and board relations through Capitol Hill appointments.

Lisa also has extensive experience with CRE companies in a consulting role, both from an operations standpoint and content communications perspective. She has worked with numerous clients such as ALM Media, Colliers International, Commercial Real Estate Women, First Cal, Marcus & Millichap, Morgan Stanley, Princeton Capital, Prudential California Realty, Tradeline and Trumark. Lisa held national communication positions with Marcus & Millichap, along with regional positions with Grubb & Ellis and and Coldwell Banker Residential.

She is very honored to be our new chapter director and is really looking forward to a great year. You can reach her at lisabrowncomm@gmail.com.