Milwaukee commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield | Balk has named Shawn Robbins as its chief executive officer. Robbins will be the third CEO in the firm's 103-year history. A fifth-generation Wisconsin native, Robbins has 20 years of leadership experience in both the private and public sectors in real estate, economic development and healthcare, according to a press release. Most recently, Robbins held several leadership roles within the Blue Cross Blue Shield system, serving as president of a $350 million healthcare company serving clients in four western states and then as executive vice president of the National Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving 34 operating companies that support 118 million Americans, the release noted. “After a 12-month search and careful consideration of highly qualified candidates, the board is proud to appoint Shawn as our next CEO,” said Jeff Hoffman, chairman of the search committee. “His diverse experience in building high-performing organizations combined with his roots in the Wisconsin economic development and real estate communities make him the clear choice to take our company to the next level.” Robbins succeeds Kevin Riordan, who has served as CEO of Bork Company since 2016. “(Riordan's) steadfastness and thoughtful leadership are fundamental to our success, and we are deeply grateful for his many contributions over the years,” said Terry McMahon, chairman of the board. “We are fortunate to have such a transformational leader join our company and lead us into the future.” Earlier in his career, Robbins served as director of Oregon Business Development under Oregon Governors John Kitzhaber and Kate Brown. He also served as CEO of Greater Portland, Inc. and executive vice president of the Madison Regional Economic Development Partnership (formerly Thrive). “I was fortunate to grow up around one of the most influential thinkers in real estate and a Wisconsin legend, James A. Grasskamp,” Robbins said. “He highlighted the influential role our industry plays in shaping the health of cities and communities. I'm honored to be a part of it again and to work alongside like-minded colleagues at Volke Company.”
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