One never knows when a short-term arrangement will yield a long-term payoff. In Don Dreusike's case, his consulting gig with Urban Housing Group's Mission Bay project in early 2007 led to the creation of a new position there—vice president of construction—and Dreusike was just the man for the job. His primary focus will be building a construction team to support projects throughout California, where his Marcus & Millichap-owned firm is based. Dreusike, who holds a bachelor's in architecture from California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, previously was president of DWD Associates.

Q: What appealed to you about this job?

A: The opportunity to participate in the formation of a relatively new business entity and enhance the construction capability, credentials, and knowledge. In addition, I have always wanted to be part of a high-quality, well-respected owner/developer organization that allows me to use my many years of construction experience.

Q: What do you see as a significant challenge for the multifamily industry in the coming year?

A: Escalating construction costs.

Q: What are the big opportunities for multifamily firms?

A: The multifamily industry has an opportunity to raise the bar. As in most industries, improvement is continuous, which results in higher quality products that meet the needs of the ultimate users.

Q: What do you enjoy about working in the multifamily industry?

A: I enjoy the people. There is teamwork, collaboration, and a commitment to providing the best product at an affordable price. I am also excited about the interest in the industry from highly talented interns and graduates from our various universities.

Q: What's the best advice anyone ever gave you about your career?

A: Be honest—and there are no free lunches.

Q: How would you describe the multifamily industry in terms of career opportunities?

A: There are numerous career opportunities in multifamily as exemplified by the interest from our university graduates. Very informed, bright, and energetic talent is entering the multifamily industry and this will provide a solid basis for an exciting future.

  • Diana Reid has been named executive vice president and head of PNC Real Estate Finance, where she will be responsible for the firm's business units, which specialize in areas such as agency finance and low-income tax credit issues. Previously she was a managing partner at Beekman Advisors.
  • Karen Kossow, one of MFE's featured up-and-comers in July 2007, has been promoted to vice president of marketing for Kettler Management. In her new role, she will be responsible for strategic planning, marketing, and brand partnership development for Kettler's apartment communities.
  • Lane Co. has hired Jerry D. Davis as development partner for the firm's new Arizona and Southern California division. Davis is founder and president of Vision Residential Group and previously held executive-level positions with several companies.
  • Jacques Mebius has joined Cortland Partners as development director, a role in which he plans to explore several high-density projects. Previously he was senior vice president at Ultima Holdings.
  • Urban Housing Group has hired Joshua Roden as director of land acquisition for its regional office in San Mateo, Calif. He is responsible for exploring development opportunities in the Bay Area.
  • Stan Ponte has been appointed president of Coldwell Banker Previews International, where he intends to raise the visibility of the firm's New York-based luxury portfolio. Previously he was senior vice president at Stribling & Associates.
  • KKE Architects has hired John G. Deenihan as principal and director of operations for its rapidly growing Pasadena, Calif., office operations. Most recently, he was a principal and director for Rothenberg Sawasy Architects.