Connect Q&A: Pamela L. Westhoff, NAIOP SoCal 2020 President

Connect Media had the distinct pleasure of getting an exclusive overview of what to expect from the tenure of NAIOP SoCal’s new President for 2020, Pamela L. Westhoff of Sheppard Mullin. The following are her responses to a series of questions regarding the chapter’s 2020 agenda and current priorities for the year to come.

Q: What top issues will drive NAIOP So Cal’s 2020 agenda?

A: As the third largest NAIOP chapter in the nation with more than 1,100 members across Los Angeles and Orange counties we strive to be a leading voice in Southern California real estate and the CRE industry at large. For 2020, our chapter priorities include:

– Maintain our leadership in addressing legislation affecting the real estate industry.
– Expand our role as a leading government affairs resource to the Southern California real estate industry and our members.
– Increase the diversity of our chapter membership and leadership by reflecting gender, race, and sexual orientation as a priority in our committees, educational events and speaking opportunities.
– Expand opportunities for the chapter’s Developing Leaders, a national focus on professionals 35 years and younger, by reaching more of the next generation so that they have the knowledge and network to build their careers.

Q: Who are the key officers of NAIOP So Cal in 2020 and what will they be addressing?

A: This year, I’m fortunate to have an incredible team of premier real estate leaders on our Executive Committee and in Chair positions.

Immediate Past President Jeff Moore, President-Elect Rob Antrobius, Chapter Secretary Justin McCusker and Past President Jim Camp are leading a committee to position our Chapter for future resilience and growth through a search for our first Chief Executive Officer.

Legislative Affairs Committee Chair Stephane Wandel has perhaps the toughest role as he guides a dedicated and hard-working group of real estate professionals committed to defeating the split roll property tax initiative and working effectively with our coalition partners and neighboring NAIOP chapters to fight the numerous ballot measures and initiatives that threaten our industry.

Sponsorship Committee Chair Mike Hodges is working to increase our valued Chapter sponsors and to ensure they gain from their investment in NAIOP SoCal.

Programs Chair Lillian Kuo and Programs and Education Liaison Fran Inman lead efforts to provide quality educational programs and outstanding networking opportunities for our members.

Real Estate Challenge Chair Eric Paulsen is undertaking an ambitious effort to stage a new Real Estate Challenge event in Orange County, and Ryan Gallagher is leading a team that will make this year’s Night at the Fights the best ever!

Q: What engages you personally about CRE and what issues will you prioritize in your role as President?

A: The best part of being involved in NAIOP SoCal is the people. Our Board and our membership is comprised of top industry leaders, united in a goal to make all aspects of the Southern California real estate community the best it can be. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be involved with an energetic, committed and creative group of people who love this industry like I do. NAIOP So Cal is the future of Southern California real estate and I am glad to be a part of it.

For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Chris Egger