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Every hero is the villain of his own story and job satisfaction is highly correlated to an employee’s feelings. The job satisfaction helps the company, achieving its objectives – even more than money. It makes people aware of how their contributions impact the entire business. This more than anything else, motivates performance. Here, becoming a market expert by specializing in something that you can become known for. In this quest, Bob Knakal started his own brokerage company, Massey Knakal Realty Services, that grew to be the number one investment sales firm in the most competitive market in the US by a wide margin. Today Bob runs the NY Private Capital Group at JLL. 

More than anything else, commitment to the objective motivates performance. Thus, we at CIO Business World, interviewed Bob to know how Massey Knakal grew to be some dominant. 

Below are the highlights of the interview

Brief our audience about your journey as a business leader up until your current position at JLL today.

I began my career as a summer intern with Coldwell Banker in Hackensack, NJ in the summer between freshman and sophomore year in college in 1981. I worked there my next two summers and started my full time career with Coldwell Banker in Manhattan in July of 1984. 

It was there I met my business partner, Paul Massey. In 1988, Paul and I left CB to start our own brokerage company, Massey Knakal Realty Services. We started with just the two of us and a secretary in an 800 square foot, 18 month sublet, and grew the firm to 250 people in three offices in NYC by 2014 when we sold the company to Cushman & Wakefield for $100 million. 

Our management style was based upon servant leadership and we developed some of the very best talent in the market through the training and encouragement we provided. Today, there are 29 companies, or divisions of companies, involved in the investment sales business in NYC that are owned by, or run by, folks who learned the business at Massey Knakal. 

Tell us something more about your current position at JLL and its mission and vision.

Today, I run the NY Private Capital Group at JLL. Our mission is to provide best in class services to owners of investment properties in NYC who are looking to sell their assets. We only represent sellers, work only on exclusive listings and only work in designated NYC territories. 

What sets you apart from others in your field? 

I like to think that there are two things that set me apart. Work ethic is one and discipline is the other. With regard to work ethic, even though I am in year 40, I still work 7 days a week. I continue to try to learn as much as I can each week, still work with a broker coach weekly (as I have for over 12 years now) as I want to be kept abreast of best practices folks are implementing throughout North America and still maintain my networking routine of attending 261 networking events per year. This effort allows me to do the best possible job for my clients. And discipline is the other characteristic. The investment sales brokerage business requires discipline. Doing the same fundamental things day after day, week after week, month after month, year after year, and in my case, decade after decade. Abraham Lincoln once said that “Discipline is choosing between what you want now, and what you want most.” I have been able to focus on what I want most, the majority of the time. 

How do you build and manage a motivated and effective team?

The best way to build and manage a highly motivated and effective team is through constant training, encouragement and recognition and acknowledgement of effort and achievement. Job satisfaction studies have shown that job satisfaction is more highly correlated to an employee’s feelings that they are accretive towards helping the company achieve its objectives – even more than money. Making everyone in the platform aware of how their contributions impact the entire business must be a priority. This more than anything else, motivates performance. 

Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run, and what are your future goals?

I feel blessed that real estate brokerage is not only my career, it is also my hobby. While I am in year 40, in some ways I feel like I am starting over. Technology advances are changing the world of commercial real estate and we all have to adapt to the changing environment. So while I feel like I am starting over, it’s nice to have a 40 year track record of 2,287 deals backing me up! 

Because I love brokering so much, I don’t plan on ever retiring. Future goals include continuing to serve the best interests of my clients and someday closing deal number 3,000. 

Describe in detail the values and the work culture that drives you.

Our core values have always been: Passion, Integrity, Excellence and Responsibility. Passion for the business and what we do everyday to help our clients achieve maximum results – Integrity in all ways which means doing the right thing always, whether everyone will know or no one will know. A laser like focus on excellence and doing the best possible job for our clients and, of course, responsibility to give back to the communities in which we live and work. Basically, treat all of you clients as if they were family members and everything else works itself out. 

What, according to you, could be the next big change in the real estate? How is company preparing to be a part of that change?

AI is going to change the world. JLL is at the forefront of these changes and it is clear that early adopters will be the winners here. AI will not replace your job but someone using AI could if you don’t get there first. 

What change would you like to bring to the real estate industry if given a chance?

We are currently developing the most sophisticated data sets in the market when it comes to land valuation. We have a data set of land comps going back to 1984 and are applying an AI application to the data which we believe will lead to some predictive conclusions. This has never been done before and based on the integrity of the data set, we expect insightful results. 

How have you made an impact in the real estate?

Back in the 1980s, we help revolutionize the way investment sales brokerage was done. We put for sale signs on buildings when no one else was doing it. We cooperated with other brokers when it was not commonplace. We brought an institutional approach to the business of selling non-institutional assets. This fundamentally changed the way brokerage was done then and continues to be done today. 

We also adopted a very analytical approach to the business which is something that grew out of my love of baseball. I collected baseball cards as a kid and love looking at the stats on the backs more than looking at the photos on the front. That love of statistics led me to track all of my pitching statistics as a little leaguer and I did so through college as I played all 4 years at Penn. 

When I started in the business full time in 1984, I immediately began tracking the real estate stats in my territory and continue to do so today. When explaining what is happening in the market, I always use statistics rather than adjectives. 

What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs who aspire to venture into your sector?

My advice would be to dive in head first. The brokerage business is the ultimate meritocracy as you get out of it what you put into it. Become a market expert by specializing in something that you can become known for. Specialization is the easiest way to differentiate yourself from everyone else trying to do what you do and that differentiation leads to a competitive advantage. 

Invest time in refining your own skills, and you’ll find no room to judge others. It’s this drive for excellence that ensures the consistent delivery of superior work and surpassing of expectations. Embodying this spirit of continuous learning, Amin Badra has reached new heights by leveraging technical tools that enhance the construction processes at Kabbani Construction Group. Further he actively fosters a positive culture that promotes innovation and collaboration with the team members at KCG. 

Amin sets the right example, by being a leader, who leads from the front. He displays a character of enthusiasm for work, commitment to our company values, and respect for the team. He embodies the ethical and professional behavior by being a Digital Construction Head at Kabbani. Here’s his story of commitment and success.

A Decade of Leadership and Innovation

Amin Badra embarked on his architectural journey a decade ago, leveraging a wealth of experience, unwavering passion, technical prowess, and effective leadership skills to ascend to his current role within the Construction Group. His extensive tenure in the construction industry has been marked by overcoming diverse challenges, ranging from mastering cutting-edge construction technologies to steering large-scale projects to success. 

These experiences have been pivotal in Amin’s professional evolution. Noteworthy achievements include seamlessly integrating technology into construction practices and maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality during periods of rapid expansion. His success is attributed to his innovative approach, introducing technical tools that not only enhanced construction processes but also streamlined project timelines and improved cost effectiveness.

Visionary Approach to Sustainable Construction

Kabbani Construction Group, under its visionary leadership, emerges as a trailblazer in the construction industry. Embracing a progressive approach, the group harnesses the latest technological advancements to deliver top-notch, sustainable, and innovative solutions. The hallmark of their work lies in the exceptional quality, a commitment to sustainability, and a dedication to leveraging innovation for transformative construction processes.

The mission of KCG revolves around consistently exceeding client expectations by providing unparalleled construction services. The firm is unwavering in its dedication to delivering solutions that not only meet but surpass industry standards, a commitment rooted in the pursuit of excellence and customer satisfaction.

Looking beyond mere success, the group aspires to become a global authority in the fusion of cutting-edge technology with construction practices. Their vision is to redefine industry norms by utilizing technology as a catalyst for change, positioning themselves to make significant strides and push the boundaries of what’s achievable in the realm of construction.

Strategies for Team Success

In steering the workforce of a tech-forward construction entity such as Kabbani Construction Group (KCG), the emphasis lies on a strategic amalgamation of planning, effective communication, and fostering a positive work atmosphere. KCG employs a multifaceted approach to cultivate a motivated and efficient team.

The first cornerstone involves meticulous hiring, focusing not only on requisite skills but also on individuals whose values align with the company culture. The emphasis is on recruiting team players eager to learn, adapt, and thrive collaboratively.

Clear communication takes precedence in KCG’s operational framework, ensuring each team member comprehends their roles, tasks, and overarching company objectives. This includes keeping the team informed about the latest technologies contributing to project success.

Continuous training and development programs constitute the third pillar, recognizing the dynamic nature of the construction industry. Team members are equipped with the latest techniques, tools, and safety protocols to stay abreast of industry evolution.

KCG’s recognition and reward system, spanning verbal praise, bonuses, promotions, and other incentives, fortify the sense of value within the team. This strategy sustains high motivation and effectiveness. Additionally, KCG fosters a positive culture that encourages innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The team members are urged to share ideas, learn from mistakes, and support each other’s growth.

As leaders, KCG understands the significance of setting the right example. Demonstrating enthusiasm for work, commitment to company values, and respect for the team’s efforts, they aim to embody the ethical and professional conduct expected from every team member.

Pioneering Technology Integration in Construction

In his role as the Digital Construction Head at Kabbani Construction Group (KCG), Amin Badra envisions himself as a leader dedicated to integrating technology and design for the long term. His aspiration is to master various technological tools, utilizing them to craft more efficient designs and sustainable structures. His ultimate vision involves harnessing technology to deepen understanding of materials, construction methodologies, and environmental implications, ultimately contributing to the development of structures that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally sustainable and operationally efficient.

Looking ahead, Amin’s future goals encompass dynamic aspects. He aims to master and seamlessly integrate emerging technologies, including Advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D printing, drone technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the construction processes at KCG. His dream involves leading innovative projects that leverage these technologies, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability within the industry. Moreover, he aspires to exert influence on the broader construction sector, advocating for the widespread adoption of advanced technology.

Embracing Values and Innovation

At the core of Kabbani Construction Group are foundational values encompassing innovation, integrity, collaboration, and excellence. The group is dedicated to transcending boundaries by employing cutting-edge technologies to provide top-tier digital construction solutions. The steadfast commitment to integrity ensures ethical business practices, treating all stakeholders with honesty and respect.

Within the diverse team, collaboration is pivotal, cultivating an environment where ideas are freely exchanged, and every voice is valued. KCG believes in the collective input of team members, recognizing that the best solutions emerge through collaboration. Excellence is the guiding principle, propelling the group to consistently surpass client expectations, driven by technical expertise and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Pioneering the Digital Revolution in Construction

Kabbani Construction Group has earned recognition as a “Great Place to Work,” reflecting its values in the work culture. The group fosters a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging each team member to explore, innovate, and advance professionally. Continuous learning is ingrained in operational practices, ensuring the group remains at the forefront of technological advancements in construction. Achievements are acknowledged and celebrated, nurturing motivation and a sense of pride in the collective work. Additionally, the group prioritizes maintaining a healthy work-life balance, respecting personal time and well-being, acknowledging that overall success is intertwined with the holistic wellness of the team.

The construction industry is on the cusp of a transformative shift with the extensive integration of digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced Building Information Modelling (BIM). This paradigm shift has the potential to revolutionize project planning, project controls, construction management, and predictive maintenance, fostering safer, more efficient, and cost-effective processes.

KCG stands at the forefront of embracing this imminent change. Proactively investing in the acquisition and development of such cutting-edge technologies, the group is dedicated to providing comprehensive training to its team, ensuring expertise in effectively utilizing these tools. Strategic partnerships with technology firms are being forged to leverage their knowledge and resources. The objective is not merely to be a participant in this transformative wave but to lead the industry, showcasing the potential and myriad benefits of a fully integrated digital construction process.

Pioneering Sustainable and Technological Advancements

Given an opportunity, Amin Badra aspires to spearhead a broader adoption of sustainable and technology-driven practices within the construction industry. Despite notable progress, Amin recognizes the untapped potential for a more extensive integration of advanced technologies and sustainable methodologies.

His advocacy begins with a strong endorsement for the widespread use of digital design and construction tools, encompassing advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM), Realty Capture, AI, and IoT. Amin envisions these tools as catalysts for enhanced efficiency, error reduction, and heightened safety on construction sites. By sharing his experiences and successes, Amin aims to inspire other firms to join the movement, catalyzing a transformative shift across the industry.

Furthermore, Amin is a proponent of mainstreaming green construction practices, driven by a belief in the industry’s responsibility toward the environment. Through the utilization of eco-friendly materials, optimization of designs for energy efficiency, and minimizing construction waste, he seeks to significantly diminish the environmental footprint of the industry. 

Additionally, Amin advocates for the promotion of policies and standards aligned with these goals. This involves collaborative efforts with industry bodies, governmental agencies, and academic institutions to facilitate regulatory changes and educational programs. He firmly believes that this dual approach, combining technological advancements with sustainable practices, represents the future trajectory of the construction industry.

Leadership in Digital Transformation and Sustainability

In his capacity as the Digital Construction Head at Kabbani Construction Group, Amin Badra has left an indelible mark by championing innovation and sustainability in the organization’s projects. Amin spearheaded the seamless integration of cutting-edge tools, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Realty Capture, into the construction processes, resulting in heightened efficiency, minimized errors, and improved project outcomes.

Amin’s initiatives have notably mitigated human errors, ensured strict adherence to project timelines, and bolstered cost-efficiency across various projects. Notably, he implemented the 3D laser scanning process, seamlessly intertwining it with the Building Information Modeling (BIM) process—an innovative approach known as SCAN to BIM. This strategic integration facilitated the verification of as-built conditions, expediting the commencement of engineering processes and streamlining site activities during the construction phase.

Beyond project-specific achievements, Amin Badra has played a pivotal role in cultivating a culture of innovation within the company. Through his leadership in training and development programs, he has ensured that the team remains at the forefront of technological advancements, enhancing collective skills and knowledge across the organization.

Insights for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

In offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the construction field, Amin Badra, deeply entrenched in a technologically advanced construction company, shares invaluable insights. First and foremost, he emphasizes the imperative of embracing technology as an ally in navigating the swiftly transforming construction landscape. Allocating resources to comprehend and integrate tech solutions can significantly enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate project outcomes.

Amin Badra underscores the importance of prioritizing sustainable practices, recognizing that green construction is not only environmentally ethical but also increasingly demanded by clients. He advocates for a comprehensive understanding of sustainable design principles, ensuring their integration into all projects.

Furthermore, Amin Badra emphasizes the non-negotiable aspects of maintaining uncompromised quality in work and prioritizing safety on construction sites. These elements, he asserts, are instrumental in shaping a positive reputation and ensuring success within the industry.

Networking emerges as a key aspect in Amin’s advice, encouraging entrepreneurs to establish robust relationships within the industry, spanning suppliers, potential clients, and even competitors. These connections, he believes, can unlock opportunities, foster partnerships, and provide valuable insights into the industry.

Lastly, Amin underscores the paramount importance of continuous learning. Acknowledging the perpetual evolution of the construction industry with new trends, techniques, and regulations, he emphasizes the need to stay updated for sustained success in the sector.

Having great skills doesn’t mean you know everything about everyone. With new and exciting developments brought forth every quarter, Bruce Magown envisions greater opportunities for growth by being the Founder at InterWeave SmartSolutions. Bruce remains committed to prioritizing customer needs and consistently providing innovative solutions to meet and exceed their expectations. 

Bruce’ journey in the realm of business and technology is a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. His global workforce embraces diverse perspectives and passions, creating an environment where individuals with a drive for innovation and creativity can thrive.

Let’s see his strategic approach to technology and branding in detail.

A Trailblazer Journey in Technology and Innovation

Before founding Integration Technologies, Inc. (dba) InterWeave SmartSolutions, Bruce Magown held key leadership roles in several distinguished organizations. As Chief Executive Officer, President, Board Member, and Investor in SecurDigital, Inc., he spearheaded the development of SecurVoice©, an advanced voice, data, and video encryption solution designed for FIPS 140-2 certification. 

In the year 2000, Bruce assumed the roles of Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and head of the Audit Committee at the Uncommon Media Group, LLC. He further served as President and Chief Operations Officer of Knoa Corp., a privately held company specializing in interactive and media-rich solutions. His enjoyable tenure at Netscape saw him as the Vice President, representing Canada, the United States East Coast, and Latin America. Bruce Magown’s extensive experience also includes roles as AVP at Lehman Brothers and Chief Executive Officer of Information Engineering, Inc., an e-business solution provider.

Pioneering Configurable CRM Integration with Innovative SaaS Solutions

Integration Technologies, Inc. (dba) InterWeave SmartSolutions stands at the forefront of Configurable CRM integration, introducing innovative and highly customizable Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions tailored to the unique needs of its clients. With a focus on business process and workflow selection at the object level, InterWeave seamlessly integrates with prominent systems such as Salesforce, Creatio, QuickBooks, Sage Intacct, MS Dynamics, and more. Established in the year 2000, the company initially emphasized Enterprise Integration, laying the foundation for InterWeave SmartSolutions—a CRM Integration Software Product Suite that boasts a rapidly deployable and infinitely scalable SaaS Integration Platform and Integration Server.

The company’s dedication extends to three core integration tenets: Financial Services Solutions, Payment Processors, and Multi-Cloud integrations, all approached in a highly configurable manner. Catering to SaaS, SMB, and Enterprise Customers, InterWeave enables them to manage customer interactions with system-specific business processes and workflows, delivering an exceptional customer experience. The focus on automating business processes and workflows between entities distinguishes InterWeave’s Solution options, offering configurability, intuitiveness, and expansiveness for the business CRM community.

Amidst the challenges and choices inherent in technology provision, InterWeave emphasizes meeting customer requirements as the guiding principle. The company’s journey has taught valuable lessons, emphasizing the importance of a client-focused approach to ensure the highest standards of service and support. InterWeave recognizes that its clients are the driving force behind its success and remains committed to treating them with the utmost care and consideration. Through redefining technology and rebranding, Integration Technologies, Inc. has not only established a robust market presence but also prioritizes continued innovation to meet evolving customer needs.

Commitment to a Global Culture of Creativity

InterWeave SmartSolutions nurtures a culture of innovation and creativity, prioritizing flexibility, technical exploration, and the option for both remote and onsite work to foster an environment conducive to originality. Embracing a global workforce, the company values diverse perspectives and passions. It acknowledges that the shared drive and passion of its employees play a pivotal role in its overall success, attracting individuals with innovation embedded in their DNA. This commitment to an environment that encourages exploration reflects InterWeave’s dedication to fostering creativity and embracing the diverse talents of its team members.

Propelling Innovation through Strategic Marketing Initiatives

As InterWeave SmartSolutions looks to the future, the company strategically leverages its repositioning and rebranding initiatives to drive an impactful outbound marketing campaign. Focused on expanding its reach across LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, InterWeave aims to elevate awareness of its outstanding technology. Recognizing that great technology deserves visibility, the company envisions substantial growth opportunities with its quarterly innovations, staying committed to exceeding customer expectations and delivering innovative solutions.

Revolutionizing CRM with Strategic Focus and Dynamic Branding

Maintaining a robust brand presence, InterWeave strategically redefined its technology focus in 2020, centering on three core integration tenets: Financial Services Solutions, Payment Processors, and Multi-Cloud integrations. Tailored for SaaS, SMB, and Enterprise Customers, this simplified and configurable approach empowers users to manage customer interactions with system-specific business processes and workflows. 

Concurrently, the company executed a comprehensive rebranding effort, overhauling its website and introducing five new websites, seamlessly integrating with social media platforms to support its growth trajectory. Under the umbrella of ‘The SmartIntegration Platform for CRM,’ the InterWeave brand encompasses the Solutions residing on the Platform, aptly named ‘InterWeave SmartSolutions.’

With a dedicated team, InterWeave ensures the platforms stay current with timely company updates, technological advancements, and offerings. Actively engaging in video production, the company utilizes a visual and verbal approach to demonstrate how its solutions align with customers’ business processes and workflows, emphasizing a dynamic and interactive user experience.

Revolutionizing Business Processes with Configurable Solutions

In the realm of SaaS integration, Integration Technologies, Inc. introduced a distinctive approach with a SaaS Hosted Solution centered on business process and workflow selection at the object level. A prime example is the Creatio_Sage Intacct Solution, where the company replicates Sage Intacct transaction data in Creatio at the object level. This innovative solution is then presented to the audience, typically comprising sales administrators and controllers, in a configurable form during discussions on Best Practices. 

In Zoom meetings, the customer’s selections for Accounts Receivable/Accounts Payable are meticulously reviewed, involving choosing from a vast array of over 300 configurable options to align with their specific business processes and workflows. This SaaS Solution is entirely tailored to the customer’s requirements, allowing for additions, updates, and new selections through their yearly subscription.

Fostering Innovation, Flexibility and Immersive Technology in CRM Integration

InterWeave encourages a flexible work environment, offering its global workforce the option of remote or onsite presence. The company recognizes that passion is a driving force among its employees, contributing to its overall success. 

InterWeave values individuals who are inherently driven by innovation, considering this characteristic a fundamental aspect of its team. The company envisions a future focus on Immersive Technology, aiming to provide customers with an interactive exploration of technology at their own pace and preferences. The recent two-year repositioning and rebranding efforts, including the development of five websites, mark a transition towards a more immersive technological environment in the coming twelve-to-twenty-four months.

Emphasizing the importance of listening and innovating, InterWeave collaborates with top CRM and Financial Partners worldwide, offering Configurable Integration Solutions. The company believes in empowering clients to select the best business practices and workflows tailored to their applications. 

Beyond the initial setup, InterWeave underscores the significance of actively listening to customer feedback and needs, recognizing that customer input is a driving force in continually providing tailored solutions.