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Commercial Observer · Multifamily

Berkadia Hires C&W’s Blake Okland as Chief Revenue Officer

Via Commercial Observer · July 7, 2026
Compiled by Real Estate Trail Editorial · July 7, 2026

Why this matters

Berkadia’s appointment of Blake Okland, formerly head of Cushman & Wakefield’s multifamily capital markets platform, as chief revenue officer signals a strategic recalibration amid evolving multifamily investment dynamics. Okland’s expertise in multifamily capital markets underscores Berkadia’s intent to deepen its foothold in a sector that continues to attract institutional capital despite broader macroeconomic uncertainties. This move likely reflects a recognition that multifamily remains a critical driver of fee income and deal flow, even as lending conditions tighten and underwriting standards become more conservative. Institutionally, the hire suggests Berkadia is positioning to capture a larger share of capital-market activity by leveraging Okland’s network and sector knowledge, potentially enhancing its advisory and financing capabilities. It also points to a broader trend of CRE firms emphasizing leadership with specialized capital markets experience to navigate a complex environment marked by rising interest rates and shifting investor appetite. For allocators and lenders, this development may presage intensified competition for multifamily mandates and financing relationships, reinforcing the sector’s resilience and the premium placed on seasoned capital-markets leadership.

Editorial analysis · AI-assisted

On the RET wire

Computed from Real Estate Trail’s own tracked coverage

Excerpt from Commercial Observer:
Blake Okland , who led Cushman & Wakefield ’s multifamily capital markets platform from December 2023 to early 2026, has joined Berkadia as the firm’s chief revenue officer, Commercial Observer can first report. Oklan…
Read the full article at Commercial Observer →

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