Lee & Associates names Bornhorst president

Lee & Associates, a nationwide commercial real estate brokerage with offices in Fort Myers and Naples, has named longtime industrial agent Derek Bornhorst its president.

Bornhorst, a 16-year industry veteran, has been with Lee & Associates’ Southwest Florida operation since it opened a decade ago.

As president, he will lead 16 agents and develop strategy for Southwest Florida’s population and business growth.

“I see the market here as being very robust for the next several years and I think it’s only going to further take off,” says Bornhorst. “I’m willing to work hard to bring together the vision that we’re outlining.”

Bob Johnston, a Lee & Associates’ principal, says Bornhorst’s tenure gives him a unique market perspective.

“Derek has consistently shown creativity, passion and skill in helping our clients make sound commercial real estate decisions,” says Jerry Messonnier, another Lee & Associates’ principal, in a statement.

“He is the person who will take our company to the next level.”

Prior to joining Lee & Associates, Bornhorst worked at CBRE Group, from 2005 to 2008, and Grubb & Ellis from 2008 to 2011, where he was vice president of industrial services.

Bornhorst also has earned designations from the Society of Industrial & Office Realtors and is a Certified Commercial Investment Member.

Over the past decade, his clients have included Pepsico division Frito Lay, the U.S. Postal Service, Sherwin Williams and developers EastGroup Properties, Knott Realty Group, Stock Development and McGarvey Development, among others.

Calabasas, California-based Lee & Associates has differentiated itself through local office ownership, a unique commission split with agents and a profit-sharing program.

“It’s going to be critical that we make the right decision going forward, so we’re not going to be rash,” Bornhorst says.