Zeller Announces New Chief Executive Officer

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Bob Six to Step Down; Chris Baker Appointed Chief Executive Officer, Effective June 1, 2024.

CHICAGO, June 5, 2024 (Newswire.com) – Zeller is announcing today that Bob Six will step down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Chris Baker, President of Zeller Realty Corporation will be appointed as the company’s new CEO, effective June 1, 2024.  

Bob Six has been an integral part of Zeller for more than 23 years, with his recent four (4) years of service as the company’s CEO, and a distinguished career in the CRE industry that spans over 40 years. Under his leadership, the company has seen remarkable growth, expanding its portfolio from 3 million square feet to over 10 million square feet, nationally. Bob’s dedication expands beyond mere expansion; he’s been a driving force behind Zeller’s strides in innovation, sustainability, and technology, shaping the company’s platform for the future. His active involvement with esteemed organizations such as BOMA/Chicago and BOMA International, where he currently serves as Chairman, has not only enhanced his professional network, but also elevated Zeller’s reputation, fostering invaluable relationships with industry leaders and partners. Bob will continue to serve as a Principal of Zeller and an advisor to senior leadership.

“On behalf of Zeller’s leadership and employees, I want to thank Bob for his valuable contributions and sincere personal friendship over the past 23 years,” said Paul Zeller, Chairman and Founder. “During his tenure, Bob’s focus on execution has played a pivotal role in driving Zeller’s advancement in operational excellence, positioning our company for the next phase of growth. I am honored and very energized to announce Chris Baker as Bob’s successor in the CEO role. Chris has extensive experience as a seasoned finance and deal executive in our industry. Coupled with his proficiency in leading critical operational facets of our business, this makes Chris an exceptionally overqualified individual to drive company operations as CEO of Zeller, and I am confident he will lead the company to continued success under his strategic direction.”  

Chris Baker brings a wealth of experience spanning over two decades in the commercial real estate industry to his new role as CEO. Since joining Zeller in 2013, Chris has held pivotal positions including President of Zeller Realty Corporation and Director of Asset Management. In these roles, he’s been deeply involved with all facets of the investment process, from orchestrating financing and equity sourcing for acquisitions to overseeing asset management and executing strategic business plans, culminating in successful dispositions.  Chris’s strategic acumen extends beyond the day-to-day operations; he’s played a central role in shaping the overarching direction and management of the Zeller portfolio, while developing vital relationships with both debt and equity partners.

“I have had the pleasure of working alongside Chris over the last eleven years, where he has played an integral role in growing and helping manage the capital structure of Zeller’s portfolio properties,” said Bob Six. “With his seasoned expertise in debt and equity, and proven leadership, Chris is poised to guide Zeller in the next chapter of its growth and success.”

Prior to joining Zeller, Chris worked for Ares Management as a Senior Associate in their Senior Debt Originations Group and was also an Associate Director in the Credit & Underwriting Group at Wrightwood Capital LLC. Chris also served four (4) years in the United States Air Force’s Space Program as a mission manager for the launch of military and NASA satellites. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa. Chris is a member of Chicago Real Estate Private Equity (CREPE) and the National Association of Real Estate Investment Managers (NAREIM).

Source: Zeller