Name/Title/Company: Carter Olles / Assistant Vice President of Midwest Acquisitions / MLG Capital

Briefly tell us what you do, and length of time in the CRE industry: I'm MLG's Assistant Vice President of Midwest Acquisitions. I'm responsible for sourcing, underwriting, and acquiring multifamily, industrial, and retail real estate across the greater Midwest. I also work with Legacy Fund contributors, direct MLG's internship program and lead our model integrity committee. I've completed over $600M in acquisitions since joining MLG Capital in June 2020.

What project or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?: I'm very proud of a number of our acquisitions, specifically those we've sourced off-market or with complex deal structures; however, I find significant joy in recruiting for and leading our summer internship programs. Working with college students who are discerning their career paths and passing along some of the wisdom that has been imparted on me is a very rewarding experience. I'm incredibly happy when I see these individuals find success, whether at MLG or elsewhere.

How would you like to be more involved in NAIOP Wisconsin?: Despite recently joining as an official member, I've attended NAIOP events for a number of years and have a strong appreciation for the programing and community of this organization. I look forward to continuing to meet more members, attending more events, and growing together as a community.

Tell us about your family: I grew up in Green Bay, WI and have always been surrounded by real estate. My grandfather was an electrician and overall handyman, and both he and my mother owned investment properties throughout the community. I spent weeknights, weekends, and summers working on various projects with them and listening to them meet with builders, contractors, and brokers. I came to commercial real estate as an industry when I realized I could combine my passion for and desire to invest in real estate with my financial and analytical skills, which up until that point was directed at Wall Street/traditional finance/etc. 

What's the last book you read?: I just finished "Beaverland" by Leila Philips, in which I learned more about beavers than I ever thought I would. I think it's important to detach and read/do things completely unrelated to your day-to-day life.

What is your favorite restaurant and why?: Wickman House in Ellison Bay, WI, which unfortunately just closed. The atmosphere and food were simply unmatched in a place very special to me, Door County. The restaurant was wildly popular, and I'm hopeful that its proprietors reopen a new restaurant soon!

Who is your favorite author?: Dale Carnegie. His book, "How to Win Friends and Influence People," is one of my favorites.

Cats or dogs? Do you have pets?: Dogs. I grew up with a very special cocker spaniel/poodle mix named Lucky, who had an immeasurable impact on my life.

What are your hobbies?: I enjoy golfing, playing tennis, skiing, and spending time on the water. I'm currently restoring a 1970 Boston Whaler Nauset, that I hope to have out on the water this summer.