John Ziegenhein-From Underwriting C-Plus Properties to Leading Chevy Chase Land Company (#108)

Bio John L. Ziegenhein is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Chevy Chase Land Company, overseeing the company’s new development and two-million square feet of commercial and residential properties. John has over 20 years of experience in real estate development and management, most recently as Chief Operating Officer at McCaffery, Inc.  He is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers, Inc., Urban Land Institute, and National Multifamily Housing Council. John currently serves on the Land Company’s Executive Committee, and is active locally serving on the Board of the Arlington Food Assistance Center and Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing. Show Notes Role at Chevy Chase Land Company (00:06:55) John Ziegenhein describes his role as president and CEO, focusing on the company’s strategy and day-to-day activities. Upbringing and Parental Influences (00:08:15) John Ziegenhein talks about his ordinary upbringing in Baltimore, the influence of his working-class family, and the values instilled by his parents. Turning Point in High School (00:14:45) Ziegenhein reflects on a pivotal moment in high school that led to a change in his mindset and ambition for the future. College Experience (00:15:00) Ziegenhein discusses his decision to attend college, the influence of a teacher, and his experience at Randolph-Macon College. Career Aspirations Post-College (00:19:30) Ziegenhein shares his initial career aspirations in law and his first job in credit card collections. Transition to Real Estate Career (00:24:30) Ziegenhein explains how he transitioned to a real estate career, pivoting from a finance-related role to working at RER Resources. Real Estate Recovery and CMBS Market (00:25:00) Discusses the formation of Real Estate Recovery during the RTC days and the infancy of the CMBS market. Underwriting C-Plus Properties (00:25:45) Describes the underwriting process for rundown properties in various markets and property types. Meeting with Property Owner (00:28:00) Recounts a memorable meeting with a property owner and the insights gained from the experience. Transition to ASB Capital (00:30:50) Explains the transition to ASB Capital and the shift from debt to equity investments in union markets. Union Investing and Challenges (00:35:30) Details the challenges and dynamics of investing in union markets, including the pressure to support union jobs. Pursuing an MBA (00:39:20) Discusses the decision to pursue an MBA and its benefits in enhancing financial knowledge and broadening business perspectives. Transition to The Bear Companies (00:41:55) Describes the decision to join a startup and ve...