Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Real Estate Executive Search Services
Gillham & Associates has been a leader in executive search for the commercial real estate industry since 1982. Our firm combines over four decades of specialized expertise with a deep understanding of local, national, and international markets to deliver comprehensive recruitment solutions. We partner closely with clients to identify and fulfill their unique hiring needs, prioritizing integrity, confidentiality, and long-term relationships. Our team of seasoned professionals brings extensive industry knowledge and a proven track record of placing thousands of C-level executives and senior-level professionals. We are committed to excellence, treating every client and candidate with fairness while maintaining an entrepreneurial mindset to build stronger companies and a more dynamic real estate sector. Recognized as the #1 Real Estate Executive Search Firm by the Dallas Business Journal, we serve a diverse range of clients including financial institutions, REITs, private equity groups, and architectural firms.Our core valuesexcellence, tenacity, and insightguide every transaction, ensuring alignment between organizational cultures and candidate aspirations. Through strategic partnerships and a proprietary candidate database, we identify top talent while maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the process. Our community involvement reflects our dedication to social responsibility, supporting organizations that empower underserved populations and advance industry education. With a focus on continuous improvement and client satisfaction, we remain a trusted advisor in executive recruitment for the commercial real estate sector.
Services
Executive Search
Retained Search
Commercial Real Estate Recruitment
Candidate Placement
Career Resources
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We have 40+ years of specialized experience in commercial real estate recruitment.
- Our team includes certified professionals with CCIM, CPM, and SPHR designations.
- We maintain strict confidentiality throughout the search process.
- Our proprietary candidate database targets executives with precise skillset matches.
- We partner with clients to align organizational culture with candidate aspirations.
Associations and certifications
- CCIM Institute
- Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
- HR Certification Institute
Services
Executive Search
Our executive search services specialize in identifying C-suite leaders and senior professionals for commercial real estate firms. We conduct in-depth market analysis to create targeted search strategies, leveraging a proprietary database of qualified candidates. Our process includes confidential interviews, cultural alignment assessments, and comprehensive reference checks to ensure optimal matches for both clients and candidates.
Retained Search
Retained search engagements provide dedicated recruitment solutions for mission-critical positions. We develop customized search plans aligned with organizational goals, utilizing industry networks and advanced research techniques. Our team manages all aspects of candidate evaluation, negotiation, and transition support while maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the placement process.
Commercial Real Estate Recruitment
We specialize in placing professionals across all commercial real estate sectors including finance, development, property management, and brokerage. Our recruiters possess deep industry knowledge spanning debt/equity origination, asset management, and portfolio strategy. We maintain relationships with executives in REITs, private equity firms, and institutional lenders to identify top-tier talent.
Candidate Placement
Our candidate placement services connect qualified professionals with career advancement opportunities in commercial real estate. We conduct thorough interviews to understand individual aspirations and skillsets, then match candidates with positions that align with their career goals. We provide interview preparation, negotiation support, and transition guidance throughout the placement process.
Career Resources
We offer career development tools including resume optimization, interview preparation, and industry networking strategies. Our resources cover topics like counteroffer negotiation, professional branding, and workplace etiquette. We provide guidance on navigating career transitions while maintaining confidentiality during the job search process.
People
Rick Gillham
President
Founder of Gillham & Associates with 40+ years of executive search experience. Holds a Bachelor's in Journalism from University of Texas at El Paso. Member of The Real Estate Council and Institute of Real Estate Management. Previously served in sales, marketing, and HR roles for global companies.
Paige Palmer
Managing Principal
20-year commercial real estate recruitment specialist with SPHR, CCIM, and CPM certifications. Holds a Business Administration degree from University of Texas at Dallas. Former industry professional with expertise in diverse property types and geographic markets. Licensed Texas Real Estate Broker.
Jamie Smith
Managing Principal
Senior recruiter specializing in asset management, acquisitions, and resort/hospitality properties. 20+ years of experience mentoring high-performance teams. Graduated Cum Laude with Communication Arts degree from Grove City College. Active member of REFEA, TREC, IREM, and ULI organizations.
Steve Tune
Managing Principal
30-year commercial real estate veteran with expertise in property management and asset management. Holds Real Estate degree from University of Texas at Austin and CPM certification. Licensed Texas Real Estate Broker with extensive experience in client relationship management and transaction execution.
Stacey Holt
Managing Principal
Director of Operations with background in financial services and executive recruitment. Holds General Business degree from Amber University. Licensed Texas Real Estate Agent and active member of Dallas Commercial Real Estate Women chapter. Manages daily operations and participates in search assignments.
Questions
What industries do you specialize in?
We exclusively focus on the commercial real estate industry, serving financial institutions, REITs, brokerage firms, and development companies.
How do you maintain candidate confidentiality?
We never share resumes or personal information without approval. All candidate conversations remain strictly confidential throughout the search process.
What geographic areas do you cover?
We serve clients in Dallas, North Texas, nationwide, and internationally through our extensive industry network and proprietary candidate database.
How do you evaluate cultural fit?
Our in-depth interviews assess both technical skills and cultural alignment, ensuring candidates match organizational values and workplace environments.
What happens after placement?
We provide post-placement support including transition guidance, performance check-ins, and assistance with any integration challenges during the initial employment period.