Inspiring Leaders in Our Changing Industry: Al Brooks, JPMorgan Chase

This summer, Connect CRE is producing a series titled, “Inspiring Leaders in Our Changing Industry” as a follow-up to last summer’s “Leading in Tough Times” series. We’ve selected leaders around the U.S. and across the commercial real estate spectrum to discuss significant changes in the industry and their organizations. In this installment, you’ll hear from Al Brooks, head of commercial estate at JPMorgan Chase.

Catalysts for Change: What are the essential elements for achieving significant progress within your organization and the industry as a whole? 

Success requires an incredible amount of hard work and commitment, and it is never guaranteed. To achieve success, it is essential to do right by your employees, clients, and shareholders. Consistency in delivering results for these groups, regardless of the market environment, is important.  

The focus should be on how to deliver and do the right thing for clients, rather than on barriers such as interest rates or macroeconomic factors. It is one thing to support clients and shareholders when the market is performing well, but the true differentiator is the ability to deliver during downturns. I am always proud of how JPMorgan Chase continually shows up and supports our clients during market volatility, demonstrating our unwavering commitment through the cycle.  

The Road Ahead: Looking forward, what critical changes do you foresee for the industry in the coming years? What advancements do you hope for? 

Affordable housing can’t be built fast enough. The housing crisis remains a significant challenge for both our industry and the nation as a whole. It is crucial that we explore how the public and private sectors can collaborate more effectively to increase the supply of both workforce and affordable housing nationwide. This issue is not confined to specific areas like New York City or Chicago; it is affecting cities across the entire country. 

I am incredibly proud of my team and the impactful work we are doing to support our communities through housing initiatives. However, our mission extends beyond just housing; we are committed to creating holistic communities that include essential amenities such as grocery stores, health clinics, and community centers. Our goal is to build vibrant neighborhoods where people can not only live but also thrive and work. 

Guiding the Next Generation: As we acknowledge the industry’s rising stars, what guidance can you offer them to become catalysts for positive change? 

Fully committing to your career is the best move you can make. Never remain stagnant; go beyond your daily responsibilities and immerse yourself deeply in the industry. If you can, enroll in additional courses to build a strong foundation. With this solid foundation, you’ll be able to adapt and navigate various roles within the industry. Whether you aim to be an active investor or work on the lending side, a wide array of career paths will become available to you with this comprehensive knowledge. 

I often remind my team that I began my career in the industry when interest rates were as high as 17.5%. CRE is inherently cyclical, and the market will eventually self-correct. The industry becomes fun, exciting and dynamic when interest rates are more accommodating.  

Click here to see the full Inspiring Leaders in Our Changing Industry series.