CHICAGO – Transwestern Real Estate Services (TRS) announces the appointment of industry veteran Blake Johnson as Executive Managing Director, Chicago Market Leader, effective September 29. Johnson will oversee the firm’s Chicago operations, which includes more than 330 professionals and a portfolio of leased and managed properties exceeding 33 million square feet, and drive strategic growth via innovative client solutions and broad-based platform collaboration.
“Blake is an extraordinary leader whose market knowledge, transaction expertise, and client-first mindset will elevate Transwestern’s presence in Chicago and across the Midwest,” said Greg Munson, President of Transwestern Real Estate Services. “He exemplifies the collaborative, entrepreneurial spirit that defines our culture, and we are confident he will accelerate our growth and strengthen the value we deliver.”
With nearly three decades of commercial real estate experience serving as both a producer and a visionary leader, Johnson possesses deep expertise in navigating market dynamics, motivating teams, guiding complex transactions and strengthening client relationships.
Most recently, Johnson was Executive Vice President and senior partner with CBRE in Chicago, where he advised many of the nation’s top institutional investors and oversaw more than $13 billion in investment activity. Previously, he served as President of The John Buck Company, a real estate development, management and investment firm headquartered in Chicago. He began his real estate career at Eastdil Secured where he helped launch and establish the firm's Chicago office. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Rice University and an MBA in finance from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
“Transwestern has an established, growing prominence in the Chicago market, evidenced by the seamless integration of MB Real Estate in 2023,” Johnson said. “Leadership has a clear vision of where the organization is headed – and is taking decisive steps to get there. The energy is palpable among everyone I’ve met, and part of my role includes acquiring additional talent for a platform that truly delivers a unique experience for clients, investors and partners.”
Johnson’s appointment marks the third high-profile market leader hire for Transwestern in 2025, underscoring Transwestern’s commitment to expanding its service platform and deepening its capabilities in key markets across the U.S.
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About Transwestern Real Estate Services
Part of the Transwestern companies, Transwestern Real Estate Services (TRS) strives to add value for investors, owners and occupiers across all commercial property types. Fueled by a holistic perspective of the real estate life cycle, agility and creativity are hallmarks of our approach, while vast national resources and sound market intelligence underpin customized recommendations and property solutions.
Four dynamic, integrated companies make up the Transwestern enterprise, giving us the perspective to think broadly, deeply and creatively about commercial real estate. Clients and investors rely on us for expertise that spans institutional and opportunistic investment, development, hospitality, and brokerage and asset services. Our award-winning, collaborative culture empowers team members with resources and independence to work across boundaries in pursuit of innovative solutions, reinforcing a reputation for service excellence that translates to measurable results. Through offices nationwide and alliance partners around the globe, we positively impact the built environment and our communities while fostering a work climate that champions career vitality for all. Learn more at transwestern.com and @Transwestern.
Media Contact:
Mallory Martin
312.881.7022
Mallory.Martin@transwestern.com
twmediarelations@transwestern.com
