Name/Title/Company: Emily Van Allen  / Business Development Associate / Zilber Property Group

Briefly tell us what you do and how long you have been in the Commercial Real Estate industry: I am brand new to the CRE industry and started at Zilber Property Group in January 2023. ZPG functions as a team of industrial development, acquisition, construction, and leasing experts to develop solutions for our clients. So far, my role has included event coordination, presentation buildout, website and online portfolio listing maintenance, marketing development, and special project assistance as needed. 

Which project or professional accomplishment are you most proud of?: In my previous position, I worked in commercial insurance, and within my first year of underwriting, I landed a considerable account. I found out later that most underwriters never even get an opportunity to work on something of that size in their first five years. While it took an extensive amount of time, research, and analysis, I was most proud of my ability to think outside the box and meet the client's needs for an account that the company normally wouldn't have been willing to write. 

How are you involved or would like to be more involved in NAIOP Wisconsin?: Being new to the industry, I am looking forward to meeting and learning from seasoned and accomplished professionals. I am thoroughly impressed with the tight-knit community in NAIOP and WI CRE in general and am excited to be a part of it. Additionally, I want to get involved in the Developing Leaders program since it provides many invaluable opportunities for young professionals. 

Tell us about your family: My husband and I were married in May 2021; no kids or pets quite yet, but we stay busy running, hiking, and traveling. Since we live near Lake Michigan, we certainly love spending time on the beach and in the water in the summer. 

What's the last book you read?: I recently listened to a great audiobook called "The Dutch House." It was written by Ann Patchett and narrated by Tom Hanks! 

Who is your favorite author?: By far, my favorite author is Corrie Ten Boom because of her joy and passion to share her astonishing life story. 

What's your favorite vacation destination?: So far, my favorite destination has been Hawaii. 

What are your hobbies?: Running is my absolute favorite hobby! I also enjoy baking and cooking.