In this new Podcast series, Adam Keith of CE (Carrier Enterprise) talks to close friends in the DFW CRE (Commercial Real Estate) industry about the importance of community and wellbeing in their developments as well as what motivates and concerns them for the future of DFW CRE.
EPISODE TWO
ANNMARIE DE LA VEGA | Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of De La Vega Development
01/24/2024 | 25 min
ABOUT THE EPISODE
In the Q1 2024 episode, Adam talks with Annmarie De La Vega. Annmarie De La Vega is the Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of De La Vega Development.
After graduating with a BBA from TCU Annmarie spent more than 10 years alongside global leaders in the premium drinks industry, specifically DIAGEO and Pernod Ricard. Her extensive background working with celebrated lifestyle brands and national retailers, such as 7-Eleven, Albertsons-Safeway Co., Walgreens, Sprouts Farmers Market and Brinker International, has given her a deep understanding of what motivates retailers, food and beverage operators, and hospitality end-users. Annmarie’s vision and leadership positions the company for success in brand marketing, engagement, design, and community relations. Her attention to detail, passion for people and creative approach are what she lives by when communicating the De La Vega vision.
But Annmarie does so much more for the communities in which De La Vega Development has the privilege to serve. Annmarie’s philanthropic work always takes priority over anything else at De La Vega. Community surges through the veins of De La Vega and its DNA. Annmarie’s passion for Wellness and Harmony within the De La Vega communities is nothing short of breathtaking. In addition to being a passionate supporter of CREW Dallas, Annmarie has also been a steadfast and loyal supporter of the Dallas 24 Hour Club and Our Calling. Annmarie has been working closely with the City of Dallas and these two amazing organizations to help find a long-term solution to the Homeless and Mental Health challenges facing the community. Annmarie’s mantra is “Go after the root cause of these challenges rather than just treating the symptoms.” Under Annmarie’s stewardship, De La Vega Development is mindful in the partners they bring on board to work with developing their projects.
EPISODE ONE
MIKE ABLON | Founding Partner of PegasusAblon
10/30/2023 | 20 min
ABOUT THE EPISODE
In the Fall 2023 episode, Adam talks with Mike Ablon. Mike is a founding partner of PegasusAblon, a multidisciplinary developer and investor focused on the integration of emerging markets with evolving demographic trends. Mike led the redevelopment of the Dallas Design District into a vibrant neighborhood with showrooms, galleries, unique restaurants, local retailers, and loft apartments while maintaining the history and vibe of the district’s past.
Among Mike’s accolades are: Best Multifamily Design Projects, Dallas Regional Chamber Momentum Award for Public-Private Partnerships, DBJ Best Deal Award (multiple times), named one of the 100 Fastest Growing Companies, and named the #1 Best Place to Work in DFW for small companies, with almost $1 billion of investments in DFW since its inception in 2007. Mike Ablon received his Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Architecture degrees from the University of Texas at Austin and earned his Master’s degree from Harvard University. Mike even worked as an apprentice under the world-renowned theorist and architect Robert Venturi in Philadelphia and has been a visiting lecturer at multiple universities including Harvard and Yale. Mike is also a recipient of the Lloyd Warren Traveling Fellowship in Europe for the Paris Prize Competition and a two-time finalist for the Fulbright United States Scholar Fellowship.
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In his illustrious career, Mike has held positions with: The Perot Group, CarrAmerica, Cousins Properties, and The Retail Connection. Business Leaders in Dallas/Fort Worth, and the first recipient of the Pioneer Award in Dallas. Mike has been President of TREC as well as Running for Dallas Mayor. Mike's philanthropic work with the underprivileged of Dallas is extensive and he believes that you get out of life what you put into it.