Member Spotlight: Gareth Scott

Professional Background

Current Role & Company: What is your current position, and what does your company specialize in?

Director of Acquisitions and Investment Management with Childress Klein Properties - a commercial real estate development company

Career Path: How did you get started in commercial real estate, and what led you to where you are today?

I was previously in an unrelated industry and transitioned into commercial real estate after earning my MBA from UNC in 2019. I was hired by Childress Klein to assist with development and acquisition underwriting, leasing, and marketing for our Office Division. As opportunities have come along since then, I’ve taken on more responsibilities – I now lead our Acquisitions Division across all asset types, help source capital for development projects, and asset manage our Office portfolio.

Area of Expertise: What are your key areas of expertise in commercial real estate (e.g., development, brokerage, construction, finance, legal, etc.)?

Acquisitions and Capital Markets

Notable Projects/Deals: Can you share a project, transaction, or initiative you’re particularly proud of?

• Recapitalization of 1/3 of our industrial portfolio in 2024 for $575M
• Purchase of several notable Charlotte properties including Tranquil Court and Esplanade
• Disposition of Lowe’s Global Tech Hub which set a Charlotte office $/SF record at $890/SF

Industry Insights: What’s one trend or challenge in commercial real estate that excites or concerns you?

Overall, the last 5 years have been tough for the Office market. We’re seeing increased demand for office space from tenants, and increased building occupancy and utilization as companies seem to finally be settling on their “new normal”. We’re optimistic this trend will continue, and that the Office asset class will continue to improve and present new opportunities.

 

Involvement in NAIOP

Role in the Association: What is your role within NAIOP Charlotte, and how long have you been involved?

I joined the Board of Directors in December 2024.

Why You Joined: What motivated you to join NAIOP?

NAIOP is a unique industry organization by not only serving as a networking platform, but also as an advocacy organization to help promote industry interests and drive change.

Value of Membership: How has being a member of NAIOP benefited you personally and professionally?

NAIOP played an invaluable role in informing and educating during the process of drafting the new Charlotte UDO and Charlotte Future 2040 Comprehensive Plan

Advice for New Members: What advice would you give to someone considering joining or getting more involved?

Find a program or activity that you are interested in and get involved!

Favorite Event/Initiative: What is your favorite event or initiative within NAIOP and why?

The discussions and interactions with elected officials through various NAIOP forums.

 

Personal & Fun Insights

Hidden Talent or Fun Fact: What’s something people might not know about you?

I was a paratrooper in the Army and used to jump out of airplanes for a living.

Favorite Way to Unwind: How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

Spending time at the beach with my family.