After 28 years of dedicated service to SIOR, we sadly say farewell to a wonderful friend, mentor, and leader within the SIOR organization.
Robert Hammond, Chief Operating Officer for SIOR global headquarters, is retiring after a long career within SIOR and the greater commercial real estate and association industries.
He joined SIOR in 1993 as Education Manager and quickly worked his way up the ranks to Senior Vice President of Operations, a position he held for many years before most recently being promoted to COO, in addition to serving as Executive Director of the SIOR Foundation. His talent and sharp judgement led him to be recognized as an emerging association leader. He has always been a vital member of the staff in Washington, DC, offering calm, sound advice, a kind ear, or expert management in every project he oversaw.
“If I had one word to describe Robert Hammond, it would be ‘unwavering,’” said current SIOR Chief Executive Officer Robert Thornburgh, SIOR. “He has been the backbone of the SIOR staff for so many years, helping to shape the organization through steady management. I have been so proud to work with him. He has been a tremendous mentor to everyone around him and will be truly missed.”
Trusted and adored by the staff at SIOR, he has truly grown the organization to where it is today. He is responsible for hiring many of the tenured staff that help drive the many successful programs and departments within SIOR.
“Robert Hammond is one of the most capable people with whom I have worked with in my entire career,” said former SIOR Chief Executive Officer Richard Hollander, who worked closely with Robert for many years. “He is also one of the finest and most trustworthy people I know, and is someone who never let me down and whom I am so grateful to also call a friend.”
“Robert held an unbelievable wealth of knowledge: of SIOR, of the industry, and of people,” said former SIOR Chief Executive Officer, Tom McCormick, SIOR. “He was always available to members and provided a consistent, steady approach to his leadership in the organization. I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.”
Robert is looking forward to spending more quality time with his wife and children upon retirement. We couldn’t be happier for him and we wish him many successes in wherever he chooses to go from here. He will be sorely missed.