Name: Nolan Ashton

Company/Organization: Cushman & Wakefield

Current position (and what do you do) and for how long: Investment Sales Broker focused on industrial and office. 5 years.

Place of birth/hometown: Seneca, SC

School attended: Clemson University

Most satisfying part of my job: Unique aspect of every transaction. Every sale is different, and the stories behind each transaction make every deal feel like a new adventure.

Your strongest leadership quality: I value prudence in leadership, which is not to be confused with caution. Every decision has a consequence even if it is short-term. Understanding different perspectives and reflecting before making a decision (even if it is only for a few seconds) has proven to be beneficial in all of my work from executing a successful transaction to creating a healthy, enjoyable work environment.

Career/Leadership advice:  Find exceptional people to work with.

Who do you most admire and why: My grandfather (mom’s side) – He enlisted in the Navy at 18 years old to start fresh from a difficult childhood and broke a cycle of poverty in his family. His courage to take that leap of faith changed the trajectory of his life and ultimately my family.

Goal yet to be achieved: Visit every continent (except maybe Antarctica)

What is the coolest real estate project/land use challenge you have participated in?: We recently marketed and closed a manufacturing facility for Stanley Black & Decker in 31 days, which is about four times quicker than the normal marketing timeline. The amount of foreign and domestic institutional capital looking to place money in Charlotte is incredible.

Favorite quote: “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger”

Last book read or movie watched: Currently reading Beach Music by Pat Conroy.

Favorite vacation spot: Lake Jocassee – It’s close to home but offers incredible water set against The Blue Ridge Mountains.

Favorite cause: Breakfast with Angels (it’s a weekly breakfast from 5-7AM for homeless men).

Favorite restaurant: O-Ku.

Family: Getting married December 14^th to Tarra. I also have a chocolate lab, Riggs.

Hobbies/Interests: Skiing, being on the water, traveling, and eating a good meal.

Why I belong to ULI: I love ULI’s focus on thought leadership and value the diversity of industry within ULI.

I take away something new and meet someone interesting at every ULI event I attend. As I have become more involved in the organization, I have seen firsthand how important quality programming, events, and content are to ULI.