Meet a NAIOP Chicago Developing Leader | Niquanda McMahan (Reid)
Name: Niquanda McMahan (Reid)
Company: CIBC Bank USA
Position: Commercial Real Estate Lender (Managing Director)
Age: 33
Education: Bachelor’s of Science – Finance (DePaul University)
Years in Real Estate: Almost 10 years
1. What led you to work in the Real Estate industry?
When I joined CIBC Bank USA (formerly The PrivateBank) in 2012, I started in the Commercial Banking Training Program. At that point in my life, I had no idea what I wanted to do in my career. After completing initial training and rotating through the Commercial Real Estate department, I realized how much I really enjoyed the industry. I became intrigued by the various asset types and unique financing structures put in place to help service our client’s needs.
My current responsibilities include building lending and depository relationships with new and existing clients as well as portfolio management of existing deals/loans.
2. Who has been the biggest influence in your career?
The biggest influence in my career has been my grandparents. Growing up, I’ve seen how dedicated they were in their respective careers; both being business owners. They put so much time and effort into their work and eventually it paid off. They never let their downfalls represent who they were and always found a way to overcome obstacles. At a young age, I learned that in order to become successful you have to be dedicated to your career and find a way to make the most of it.
3. Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
In 5-10 years, I see myself gaining so much knowledge and experience in the commercial real estate industry; hoping that I would someday become an executive of a successful company. I would still have a career in real estate as it is something that I enjoy and am passionate about.
4. How long have you been involved with NAIOP and what do you view as the benefits of your NAIOP Developing Leader membership?
This is my first year being involved with NAIOP. One of the benefits of my NAIOP Developing Leader membership is that I am able to network with commercial real estate leaders outside of the banking/financing industry. In addition, I can build relationships within the organization that could be beneficial for me and my development in the future.
5. What is one thing that has surprised you about your career?
One thing that surprised me about my career was the level of involvement from senior management/executives. As a relationship manager, it is my responsibility to stay in front of clients on a daily basis; however, I’ve learned that senior management/executes are really involved in the client’s overall experience as well. They always make themselves available whenever needed and are willing to step in to provide guidance/advice.
6. What is the most important lesson you have learned during your career?
The most important lesson I have learned during my career is that communication is key. It is important to effectively communicate with both internal and external personnel in order to ensure things are completed in a timely manner. Even if things are not going as planned, it’s easier to discuss right away then wait; as it will only make the situation worse.
7. What is the best piece of professional advice you have been given?
The best piece of professional advice I have been given is to always keep a work/life balance. At times, work can get stressful; however, you must not let that affect your personal life at home and vice versa. Always try to keep the two separate and understand that situations will eventually work themselves out.
8. Outside of work, how do you enjoy spending your time?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending my time with family (husband, children, parents, siblings, aunts/uncles, cousins, etc.). I’ve always been family-oriented and being around them makes me most happy. I also enjoy traveling around the world (especially tropical places) and seeing new things/different cultures.
8. What’s your motto or personal mantra?
Live life to the fullest; you only get one!