Brian Smith is the Executive Vice President of Leasing and Development with Brand Properties and directs the leasing team for the retail, office, and mixed-use portfolios and their associated activities. He is also responsible for identifying and executing redevelopment opportunities throughout the firm’s portfolio, including growing the firm’s real estate services and expanding into new markets. He brings over 25 years of experience in gathering the finest selection of culinary, retail, entertainment, and hospitality tenants in both open-air and mixed-use centers from coast to coast. He launched his real estate career in Kansas City with Copaken, White & Blitt. He later joined CBL & Associates where he led a leasing team responsible for nearly 10 million square feet of regional malls throughout the South. Most recently, he served as Chief Strategy Officer & Executive Vice President with Poag Shopping Centers.
Brian earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri. He currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts and as a Board Member of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. He is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) and a founding Board Member of Street2Street, a New York City based nonprofit focusing on youth development through sports and mentoring.
Get to Know Brian
What excites you most about the future of the CID?
The opportunity to enhance the experience of residents, employees, businesses, and property owners that call the Sugarloaf district “home”.
What book or podcast inspires you most and why?
Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. This book reminds us that we are all in the hospitality business. Delighting people in our work and how we care for them is at the heart of what all businesses should prioritize. When our team, clients, and customers feel seen, heard, and appreciated, and we deliver beyond their expectations….magic happens, and success continues to grow.
What is one priority or project for the CID that you would like to see completed in the next 5 years?
I would like to see more walking trails to connect people to the great business and entertainment options in the district.
Where do you like to spend your free time? Are there any hobbies or activities that help you “recharge”?
Any time with my family recharges and inspires me. My wife and I have an adult son and daughter. Both of our children are married, and we have one grandson. Whether we are hanging out around a fire pit, at the beach, or traveling out of the country, we love to cook and have all types of culinary adventures. It’s all about making memories together that last a lifetime.
