As president of the CCIM Live! host chapter, Ryan Martin, CCIM, vice president of Colliers International in Las Vegas, played an important role in selecting speakers and organizing networking events around the conference.
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| Ryan Martin, CCIM |
Martin recently spoke with us about the CCIM Live! conference, networking, and more.
CCIM: The Southern Nevada Chapter is hosting a Wine Soiree networking event on Oct. 13, the Saturday before CCIM Live! begins. Why should conference attendees arrive early for the event?
Ryan Martin, CCIM: The Wine Soiree has been a signature event for our chapter. Past attendance has averaged around 150 to 200 people from a variety of commercial real estate specialties. So attendees will have great networking opportunities, and our auction will help raise money for charity. Since going big in Vegas is a requirement, we're hosting the event at the Hard Rock. If you are planning to attend the conference, you should definitely include this kick-off party in your plans.
CCIM: How and why did you and the conference committee choose the CCIM Live! speakers?
RM: We booked James Murren, chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, because it was imperative to tie the audience to Las Vegas. Murren was the obvious choice because of his role in the recently completed City Center. City Center is one of the largest green developments in the world, and financing and completing such a big development was no easy accomplishment. Those ingredients provided a perfect opportunity to bring a touch of Vegas to the national stage.
CCIM: Last year you connected with a CCIM from Taiwan who also attended CCIM Live! How did that happen?
RM: We connected through the CCIM network after we both returned home. It wasn't until we returned home that we realized we were together at CCIM Live! for a week. It goes to show how small a world it really is and how CCIM can truly benefit you if you work for it.
CCIM: You're from Las Vegas. What's your favorite restaurant, bar, and day trip?
RM: With reluctance, I will pick just one. One of my favorite restaurant experiences on the Strip is the back room, in the kitchen, at Delmonico Steakhouse in the Venetian. Any bar will have your flavor; again, it is the experience. That said, miX at Mandalay Bay's THEHotel has a great venue overlooking the Strip. Some of my favorite day trips include Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Lake Mead/Hoover Dam. If you stay in town, bring your golf clubs or spend a day at the spa.
