Brett Gray Joins CBRE Atlanta Leadership Team Following CBRE-Veteran David Lanier’s Planned Retirement

CBRE today announced that Carolinas Market Leader Brett Gray has taken on an expanded role, joining CBRE Atlanta’s Advisory Services leadership team. Gray will work closely with John Ferguson, President of CBRE Advisory Services in Atlanta, and Betts Ervin, Managing Director, to lead the Atlanta market while retaining his managerial oversight of the Carolinas. This transition comes as David Lanier, Senior Managing Director, CBRE Atlanta, prepares to retire at the end of 2026 after a distinguished 30-year career in commercial real estate, including the past 20 years with CBRE.

In this role, Gray will work alongside the Atlanta leadership team to drive growth across the region, cultivate top talent and further strengthen CBRE's market position. He will work with Atlanta leadership to drive the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of Atlanta's Advisory Services lines of business, including leasing, sales, valuations, and debt and structured finance across all property types. He will relocate to Atlanta from Charlotte in January 2027.

Gray joined CBRE in November 2024 as Charlotte Market Leader and quickly established himself as a highly respected, results-driven leader. In mid-2025, his role expanded to include oversight of all Carolinas markets, with Tennessee added later that year. Throughout his tenure, he has consistently driven strong business performance while fostering a culture centered on collaboration, talent development and client service. Under his leadership, the region has strengthened its market position, attracted top talent, and deepened relationships with many of its most important clients.

"When Brett joined CBRE two years ago, we recognized his potential to take on broader leadership responsibilities. Since then, he has shown how strong a leader he is: consistently delivering results, growing the teams in his regions, and fostering a culture centered on collaboration and client service," said Pete Schippits, Group President, Advisory Services, East Region. “His expanded role reflects the confidence we have in his leadership and our commitment to the continued growth of Atlanta and the Carolinas."

Lanier’s retirement follows a distinguished 30-year career in commercial real estate, including more than 20 years with CBRE. Since joining the firm through the Trammell Crow Company acquisition, he has been instrumental in the growth and success of CBRE's Atlanta business, helping strengthen the firm's market position through his leadership of the Investor Services platform, client relationships and collaborative approach across business lines. Beyond his business achievements, Lanier is widely respected for his commitment to people and talent development, mentoring countless professionals. His contributions leave an enduring legacy across Atlanta and throughout CBRE.

"David has made an extraordinary impact on CBRE and the broader industry throughout his 30-year career," said John Ferguson, President, Advisory Services, Atlanta. "His leadership, commitment to our clients and dedication to mentorship across our brokerage teams helped shape our Atlanta business and strengthened our position across the Southeast. We are deeply grateful for his contributions and look forward to celebrating his remarkable career in the months ahead."