Bettina Hunt of Colliers selected for GlobeSt.’s 2024 Women of Influence Awards

Arizona Colliers agent Bettina Hunt, CCIM, CPM has been named to GlobeSt.’s Women of Influence Class of 2024 in the category of Broker – Landlord/Agency Representation.

Bettina Hunt

Since 1983, this award has recognized a growing number of commercial real estate female professionals for their remarkable achievements. The individual honorees have personally impacted the market and have significantly driven the industry to new heights via their outstanding successes. The 2024 Women of Influence were selected by GlobeSt.’s esteemed advisory board and senior editors based on how well they achieved goals and displayed ingenuity in regard to their nomination category; how impactful their work has been; how dedicated the nominee has been to furthering the development of their field and the role of women within it; and the nominee’s personal commitment to the highest ethical standards, service and excellence.

“This year’s honorees have closed deals in the hundreds of millions of dollars, launched new ventures, and expanded their business horizons. They’ve also generously devoted their time to mentorship, advocacy, and, in the process, have elevated the commercial real estate sector industry,” says Natalie Dolce, editor-in-chief of GlobeSt.com. “The nominations we received this year were profoundly inspiring, underscoring the remarkable strides women have made in an industry historically dominated by men. Our team is excited by the opportunity to recognize these trailblazers and visionaries.”

“I am honored to be recognized among such a distinguished group of women,” says Hunt.  “This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and the invaluable guidance of my mentors. Thank you to GlobeSt. for this prestigious recognition and for highlighting the achievements of women who are shaping the future of commercial real estate.”

Big-D Construction announces Carl McFarland as president of Southwest office

Big-D Construction announced that Carl McFarland has been promoted to President of the construction company’s Southwest office.

Carl McFarland

“Since joining our Big-D Family of Companies in Spring 2022, Carl has brought a meticulous level of insight and leadership to our Southwest office,” said Troy Thompson, COO of Big-D Companies. “Through careful evaluation of the office’s precise needs, Carl has positioned it for significant growth. His strategic hiring decisions, implementation of robust systems, and establishment of protocols have laid a solid foundation for the future success of Big-D Southwest.”

McFarland’s new role and title reflect both his achievements and passion for the industry. His tenure in construction is marked by roles with major general contractors with a focus on geographic and market expansion.

As it relates to growth, the objective of McFarland and the team is to get exponentially better, driving growth because clients demand it, not just for the sake of growth. This client-driven expansion will attract more talent, continuing the cycle of transformation and success. 

McFarland appreciates the talented individuals who have surrounded him throughout his career and honors the fundamental principles of the industry. He also believes we are experiencing a generational and technological transformation. 

“Legacies will be defined by this moment. This is the biggest shift in modern construction history,” he said.

He believes the ability to adapt to culture to support the next generation of the workforce and understanding how technology will enable true business transformation is crucial.

Big-D Southwest is on an upward trajectory, attracting new talent and continuing growth with the opening of neighboring office suites in Tempe, Arizona with Big-D Heavy Industrial in July 2024—with McFarland primed and ready to lead the charge in his new role as President of Big-D Construction’s commercial presence in Arizona. 

Boatwright elected to Gallagher & Kennedy board of directors

The law firm of Gallagher & Kennedy announced today that Stephen R. Boatwright has been elected to the firm’s Board of Directors. Steve joins current Board members Kevin O’Malley, Tim Brown, Shannon Clark, Jennifer Cranston, and Mike Ross.

Stephen R. Boatwright

As a shareholder with the firm, Steve handles public and private business mergers and acquisitions for buyers and sellers of businesses of all kinds and advises companies in raising private equity and public financing. Whether seeking initial funding, expanding the business through follow on funding or acquisition, or pursuing an exit strategy through an asset/stock sale or public offering, Steve’s clients rely on his practical judgment and seasoned know-how gained over three decades to realize even their most lofty goals in all phases of financing, growth, and sale.

Steve has earned recognition among his peers through the receipt of the Martindale-Hubbell® AV Peer Review Rating and ranking by Best Lawyers in America® in Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships), Corporate Law, and Securities Regulation. He has also been recognized as a Top 100 Lawyer in Arizona by Az Business Magazine and a Top Lawyer in Securities Law by Phoenix Magazine.

Steve earned his J.D. and M.B.A. in 1989 from the University of Texas, Austin and his B.A., with honors, in 1985 from Wheaton College.