Ira Nicodemus

Ira Nicodemus

MBA - Strategic Management

Meet Ira Nicodemus – Politics change, principles don’t. Live your life based on solid principles and don’t get caught up in the politics.

Ira is the Director of Energy and Sustainability at CBRE Group. CBRE Group is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm. CBRE offers a broad range of integrated services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Ira’s role as Director of Energy and Sustainability focuses on meeting clients’ sustainability goals. These goals encompass green building, water efficiency, energy and CO2 reduction, waste and recycling improvement.

He finished his undergraduate studies in May of 2008, which launched him right in to the Great Recession! Those early years of his career proved a wild ride as he found himself on his 4th job in 3 years. In hindsight, he believes that his rollercoaster of a resume was an asset both in developing his character and knowledge.

In his 7+ years at CBRE, he has been able to grow quickly, aided by his UNT MBA that he completed part-time from 2012-2014. You have to look at unexpected change as opportunity and embrace the growth that comes from it. It is a surefire recipe for success and wisdom.

Advice for students: Subject matter expertise is important, but balance your technical skills with strong soft skills. Technical skills may get you hired, but soft skills will get you promoted. Take a public speaking class, have a strategic networking plan, ask more questions than you give answers, read leadership books, and always dress to impress. This will help you grow beyond an individual contributor and become a leader.