Larry Levine, President, Red Thread

• Tell me how you first got involved in with CoreNet

When I joined Red Thread in 2011 I was new to the Hartford community.  In my effort to begin building relationships I asked Dave Jackson to identify a few organizations I might want to get involved with.  CoreNet was at the top of Dave’s list!

• What is your first memory related to CoreNet? 

I remember having lunch with Ron Zappile and discussing our career paths.  Ron mentioned he had a finance background but no direct CRE experience.  I asked how he learned enough to oversee UT Realty a highly diversified global conglomerate with tens of millions of square feet of space.  Ron attributed much of his success to CoreNet.  His praise for CoreNet left a lasting impression on me.

• What has surprised you most being a member and in your various roles?

My favorite experiences are the Real Advantage dinners.  They stimulate interesting conversation with members sharing perspectives openly and honestly.  Driving home afterwards I often have one of those aha moments!  Plus, you get to know people not just professionally but personally as well.  

• What do you find most challenging about CoreNet?

Like any organization, I think CoreNet’s biggest challenge is staying true to its mission while experiencing significant growth.

• What do you wish other people knew about CoreNet?

Everyone should know how awesome the CT/Westchester Chapter is!  Our Chapter possesses genuine camaraderie and commitment.

• Tell me about some of the people you have met while working on CoreNet

I think the CT/Westchester Chapter is a terrific organization.  Our leadership over the years deserves tremendous credit.  Since I’ve been a member, we’ve had five Presidents beginning with Pete Olson, Dave Jackson, Scott Kosswig, Mark Nisbett and now Scott Tibbo.  Each provided continuity building on the success of their predecessor, and each generated their own momentum advancing our Chapter’s accomplishments.  All members contribute but we owe gratitude and our sense of community to each of these leaders.

• Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work with CoreNet.

Dave Jackson initially introduced me to CoreNet, and I’m happy to say my experience reflects the sense of community Dave advocated ten years ago.  His passion, pride and endless enthusiasm drives Red Thread’s support for the CT/Westchester Chapter.

• What might someone be surprised to know about you?

I grew up in West Hartford.  After college I spent six months selling insurance for Aetna, six months working for Lux Bond in jewelry repair, and attended Parsons School of Design for one year.  Then I fell into office furniture and spent 30 years with one firm in NYC.  I returned home to Connecticut ten years ago, and I’m very happy I came back!

• What would you tell someone who is thinking about joining a local CoreNet chapter?

Regardless of age, role or experience CoreNet offers something for everyone. It’s a highly inclusive organization.  Everyone has the opportunity to share, learn and build meaningful relationships.  Everyone also has the opportunity to make meaningful contributions.

• What do you think will change about our chapter over the next five years?

My hope is our Chapter attracts and develops a broader and more diverse membership along with next generation leaders.

• What sorts of trends do you see with CoreNet and in the industry?

COVID will have a profound impact on our industry.  Over recent months we witnessed how crisis accelerates current trends.  Trends like health and wellbeing, along with digitalization, mobility and workplace flexibility will transform how we work.  These trends coupled with the always present need to optimize real estate and effectively manage cost will reshape the spaces we work in.  I believe the office is here to stay, and I’m confident CoreNet will be here to help members understand and navigate this journey. 

• What do you do when you aren't working or volunteering with CoreNet?

Outside of work I try and live a reasonably relaxing life.  Lately, with COVID it’s been a little too quiet and simple!  I enjoy socializing with friends and spending time outdoors. I do quite a bit of hiking, biking and play some tennis.  Pre-COVID my wife Alice and I spent time visiting our son in Boston and our daughter and son-in-law in Denver.  We also have a place in Florida that we frequent during the winter.

• What else can you tell me about your experience with CoreNet?

CoreNet provides a valuable forum for industry professionals to come together and network, share experiences and learn from each other. These opportunities have helped me to stay informed, gain insight and capture a better understanding of critical real estate issues.  They’ve also stimulated my thinking around what’s next and how Red Thread can best support our customers’ challenges, needs and desires.