JLL’s Dan Fernandes Leads with Integrity
By Dennis Kaiser
Dan Fernandes is a Senior Vice President and the National Leader of VetNet, JLL’s veteran-focused employee resource group. He’s also a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your military background. What do you most recall about your time in the service and how it shaped your life?
A: I am a Lieutenant Colonel (LtCol) in the Marine Corps, and have served for 24 years between active and reserve duty. My military occupational specialty is logistics, and I’m currently the Commanding Officer of a reserve unit based in NYC.
I joined the Marine Corps for many reasons. The most prominent is that I am a first-generation American. My dad immigrated from Portugal, and both my parents raised my siblings and me with a sense of patriotism. They instilled in us the belief that America is the greatest country in the world, that we should be thankful for our freedoms, and everyone should do their part. For me, that part was to become a Marine. Being a Marine has shaped my life in almost everything I do. Integrity is more than just a word to me. Marines put their trust in my ability and, as a veteran of the Iraq War, the gravity of what that means is not lost on me.
Q: Why did you decide to join JLL, and what is your current role?
A: I started working at JLL because I had transitioned into the commercial real estate industry, and JLL is a world-class organization of which I wanted to be a part. The inclusive and collaborative culture at JLL is fostered at the most senior levels in the firm, and it really makes a difference in the way we operate. Currently, I am a Global Account Director in our Corporate Solutions group. My job is to provide our clients with strategic guidance regarding real estate activity and management and then transfer that plan into tactical execution to help them achieve their business objectives.
Q: What advantage do those with military backgrounds bring to the CRE industry?
A: My military background has helped me a great deal. When I look back at some of the leadership training I participated in through the Marine Corps, it very easily transferred to the civilian business world. The ability to think creatively and act decisively – both in a timely manner – have certainly helped my civilian career.
Q: What advice do you have for others considering shifting into CRE roles from military service?
A: My advice for those considering a career in CRE is to absolutely get involved. It is an industry that encourages teamwork, and rewards a strong work ethic. I would encourage joining industry groups such as BOMA and IFMA, and utilizing resources that are available to learn more about the industry.
For comments, questions or concerns, please contact Dennis Kaiser
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