Businesspeople

Developing Leader Spotlight: A Different Kind of ROI

“Give back and invest in people, and, more often than not, they will invest in you, too,” says Mindy Rietz, CCIM, an investment services associate with Prologis, Inc., This recipient of NAIOP’s 2016 Developing Leaders Award, exemplifies that motto, contributing her industry knowledge, creativity and passion to her work and volunteering. She is widely recognized as leading by example – with very successful results.

Mindy RietzIn her current role with Prologis, Inc., Rietz leads transactional due diligence related to the acquisition, disposition, financing, and fund contributions involving North American assets for Prologis REIT and affiliates; evaluates investment yields, NPV, IRR and profitability of potential industrial real estate acquisitions; and leads, directs and/or performs financial underwriting of North American property dispositions. Prior to joining Prologis, Inc., Rietz served as an investment sales associate in CBRE’s Minnesota Investment Properties Group.

Rietz joined NAIOP Minnesota in 2013 and became active in the chapter’s Developing Leaders committee, serving as chairman in 2016. She also served as a member of the NAIOP Minnesota Community Enhancement committee. In addition, Rietz volunteered with NAIOP Minnesota’s charitable partner, youth development organization Camp Fire Minnesota.

Outside of NAIOP, she volunteered with Second Hand Hounds, opening her home to rescue dogs in need until they are adopted into forever homes. She previously volunteered as a coach for girls’ volleyball and soccer teams. In addition, Rietz participated in an annual home build with Habitat for Humanity and as a Junior Achievement volunteer.

In 2016, Rietz relocated to Denver and became a member of NAIOP Colorado. NAIOP caught up with this inspiring leader to learn what fuels her drive to succeed.

NAIOP: What motivated you to get involved in commercial real estate?

Rietz: No two deals are exactly the same and market dynamics are ever-changing so I’m continuously learning something new and that keeps me energized and engaged. I really enjoy the tangible nature of the asset class and the endless opportunities of the industry.

NAIOP: What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?

Rietz: I find it rewarding to see challenging deals cross the finish line and to work with a great team.

NAIOP: How has being a member of NAIOP helped your career?

Rietz: NAIOP has provided respected seasoned professionals as mentors through the DL mentorship program. These mentors helped shape my outlook both professionally and personally, providing a knowledge resource, introductions and constructive criticism to push me to provide the best service possible to my clients. Some of these mentors have become my clients!

Taking a leadership role within NAIOP has given me great responsibility and the opportunity to further develop my leadership, public speaking and collaboration skills. I’ve cultivated strong friendships through the organization and a trusted network of peers looking to advance, learn and better their community.

NAIOP: What advice would you offer to other young professionals in commercial real estate?

Rietz:

  1. Find multiple mentors to help you navigate your opportunities and conflicts, and to also be your champion. Mentors are invaluable. Most NAIOP chapters have a mentorship program available to DLs, so take advantage of that resource.
  2. Get involved in your community, whether it is through NAIOP or a charity organization. Give back and invest in people, and, more often than not, they will invest in you, too.
  3. Take calculated risks.

This is part of a series of profiles of NAIOP’s 2016 Developing Leaders Award recipients, who have distinguished themselves through exceptional commitment and contributions to the industry. This prestigious award was presented at NAIOP’s Commercial Real Estate Conference 2016 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Watch this two-minute video to learn more about NAIOP’s Developing Leaders program. The recipients of the 2017 Developing Leaders Award have been announced; they will be recognized at CRE.Converge 2017 in Chicago. 

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