The organization: The National Association of Industrial Office Properties represents industrial and commercial real estate professionals and White heads the affiliate that serves Northeast Florida.
What he’ll do: Oversee and direct the local activities of the chapter. “We currently have approximately 300 members,” said White.
How was he selected/elected? He was nominated by a committee of five recent past presidents and elected by the general membership.
When are meetings and what happens during them? “We meet every other month. In addition, there are other special events. We have six luncheon meetings that feature a guest speaker and a panel discussion, a holiday party, a sponsors-only event and an annual awards banquet.”
His business: He is CEO of Commercial Jacksonville.
Goals for 2008 as president? “To become involved in the movement to defeat the Hometown Democracy Initiative. I’d like to continue the growth of the Developing Leader Group, a 35 year-old and younger group within our chapter and to provide stimulating, well-attended luncheon meetings.”
The goal of the “Developing Leader” program is to involve real estate professionals with NAIOP in the early stages of their career, benefiting them with professional development and career connections and helping NAIOP identify and prepare leaders of the future.
How does the organization have an impact on the industry? “Because our members include developers, bankers, real estate brokers, contractors, architects, etc., and many other occupations that are impacted by the commercial real estate industry, we affect multiple industries. All members are asked for their opinions on various local issues since the scope of their expertise is so extensive.”
What does the organization offer members that is unique? “A national body that lobbies Congress and is otherwise proactive regarding issues that face our industry. We are also a local organization that is business related and participates in civic activities including The Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Florida, The American Diabetes Association and The University of Florida scholarship program.”