Farbman Group announced the addition of six new team members to its family of organizations. Spanning three states, the firm’s growth includes new additions in its home state, including Kristen Howton and Mike Freed, who join Farbman Group, as well as Doug Gurnee, who joins Apex Mechanical Solutions. Farbman Group’s expansion continues through Charlie Portis, who joins the firm’s Chicago office, as well as Julio Velazquez and Peggy Dunfee, who will expand the firm’s presence in Cleveland.

J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking has appointed Karen Purcell as Head of its Community Development Banking team, reporting to Michelle Herrick. Purcell will lead a team that provides financing for the creation and preservation of affordable and workforce housing, community development financial institutions, and tax credit equity investments.

Chicago-based general contractor Skender recently made several new leadership appointments.        Andy Halik was promoted to President from Senior Vice President, Brian Bukowski was promoted to Chief Operating Officer from Senior Vice President, Brian Simons was promoted to President of Indiana from Senior Vice President, and Ashlee Pforr was promoted to Vice President, Interiors, from Project Executive. Additionally, Jerry Ball is transitioning from President and CEO to Chief Executive Officer.

Steve Sise, Chief Operating Officer of Golub & Company, has been named president of the Chicagoland Apartment Association’s Board of Directors, a trade association representing thousands of apartment industry professionals, including owners and managers of buildings ranging from two-flats to the largest publicly traded real estate investment trusts.

Draper and Kramer, Incorporated, announced that Lacy Guice, leasing specialist, was selected as a 2025 Multi-Housing News Excellence Award recipient with silver recognition in the Leasing Professional of the Year category. Guice’s silver honor recognizes her role overseeing a 240-unit property, maintaining a 95% occupancy rate and 48% renewal rate.