Michael Pollack

Q: What most notably stands out about your leadership style or what is an example of leadership success you can share with our readers?

In the dynamic landscape of my extensive 50-year leadership journey, where the only constant is change, I’ve steadfastly championed a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground approach that transcends the realm of mere management. My perspective on leadership extends beyond a distant administrative role; it’s an immersive experience, where being a hands-on participant is not just beneficial but crucial. Firmly rooted in the belief that a leader should not only oversee but be an integral part of every facet of the organization, I’ve set a powerful precedent, consistently being the first to arrive and the last to leave. This unwavering commitment goes beyond routine duties; it creates a culture of dedication and shared responsibility, ingraining a profound understanding of the organization’s intricacies among both leadership and team members alike. Leading from the front, I’ve evolved into a driving force that doesn’t just shape the trajectory of the organization but also cultivates a team embodying the commitment to excellence, fostering a workplace culture that thrives on collective success, adaptability and continuous innovation.

Q: What impact has COVID-19 or the disruptions of the past 18 months had on you as a leader?

The challenges imposed by the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic demanded a level of adaptability and resilience that transcended conventional management approaches. My acute awareness of the struggles faced by small businesses during this crisis became a catalyst for preserving our tenants’ well-being, surpassing the traditional boundaries of property management. The initiatives undertaken not only successfully mitigated the immediate impact, boasting an impressive tenant retention rate of more than 99%, but also showcased a leadership style that transcends crisis management. By not just addressing the surface issues but delving into underlying complexities, I not only navigated the organization through tumultuous times but laid a foundation for enduring resilience. This positions us to confront future uncertainties with unwavering confidence and foresight, ensuring we continue to thrive in the face of adversity.

Q: What do you feel we can be doing as a business community to empower economic growth here?

Embracing the profound philosophy of “think globally, act locally,” my commitment extends far beyond economic considerations; it’s a profound pledge to foster community strength and resilience. Niche and service-oriented enterprises in our neighborhoods play a pivotal role in maintaining economic stability by sustaining local employment and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of local commerce. My fervent advocacy for this philosophy transcends the role of mere economic actors; it transforms us into active stewards of the community, shaping positive economic trajectories that reverberate through the social fabric. This commitment goes beyond immediate gains; it’s about fostering a thriving local ecosystem, creating a lasting legacy of community empowerment that resonates through generations.

Q: What is new and notable for your company’s near future that will impact our economy?

As we cast our gaze into the future, our strategic vision orbits around expanding our commercial property portfolio, strategically identifying valuable opportunities anticipated to emerge as early as 2024. This forward-thinking approach seamlessly aligns with my commitment to seek and capitalize on value-add opportunities, showcasing our proactive stance in navigating dynamic market conditions. Beyond personal gain, this strategy represents a holistic and responsible approach, a proactive measure against urban decay that reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable development. By salvaging today’s eyesores from the potential of evolving into tomorrow’s slums, we contribute not only to our organizational growth but also to the holistic well-being of the communities we serve. This commitment transcends profit margins; it’s a dedication to creating enduring positive impacts on both the economic and social fronts. It solidifies our role as responsible stewards of community well-being and architects of sustainable growth, contributing to a legacy that extends far beyond immediate business success, shaping the future of the communities we so proudly serve.