As a leading executive search firm that specializes in the commercial real estate (CRE) industry, RETS Associates has tracked hiring trends for 20+years. While there’s no “NASDAQ of talent” or clear industry-specific unemployment metric, one trend stands out as we enter Q2 2025: A massive workforce reshuffle is reshaping the sector.
Rightsizing, Not Just Downsizing
CRE firms nationwide are realigning teams to navigate a post-pandemic market correction. This isn’t about slashing headcounts—it’s about strategically aligning talent with business priorities. Examples include:
- A public industrial REIT cutting 20+ roles in acquisitions, construction, and legal to match current market demand.
- An industrial developer replacing a senior VP of Development with a VP of Asset Management to prioritize leasing and asset performance.
- An office REIT eliminating a senior development role as new construction slows and replacing him with a junior level staffer.
These moves show CRE employers aren’t retreating from talent—they’re optimizing for efficiency, adaptability, and ROI.
Evolving Roles, Not Eliminating Them
At RETS, we’re seeing roles evolve rather than disappear. Titles are shifting, expectations are adapting, and job descriptions are being reimagined to meet today’s needs. For instance, an Asset Manager with strong leasing skills is often more valuable now than a Development VP. CRE leaders want professionals who can boost NOI and mitigate risk—less “builder,” more “optimizer.”
Avoiding Scope Creep Traps
As roles evolve, a common issue emerges: bloated job descriptions. When a retiring employee’s duties are redistributed internally, responsibilities pile up. By the time a replacement is sought, the role can resemble a patchwork of multiple outdated positions. RETS helps clients craft focused, forward-looking job descriptions that drive impact.
Our Recommendations
- Redefine Roles Freshly: Evaluate what the role needs today and going forward, not what it was in the past.
- Prioritize Core Skills: Focus on competencies that will deliver results in 2025.
- Communicate Change Clearly: Be transparent with candidates about the role’s context and evolution.
Looking Ahead
Rightsizing is challenging but essential. Strategic hires, guided by data and insight, can spark growth and lead to new avenues of revenue. RETS is here to help CRE firms navigate this reshuffle with precision and confidence.
