JLL Hires Leasing Broker Sam Seiler Away From CBRE

Sam Seiler is joining JLL to handle new business development, agency leasing and tenant representation services, the firm announced Thursday.

Seiler joins JLL from CBRE, where he was senior vice president. He was at that firm for 12 years, joining from Cushman & Wakefield in 2006. Seiler will take on the role of managing director and will work alongside JLL Vice Chairman Steven Rotter, Executive Managing Director Howard Hersch and Managing Director Michael Berg.

“JLL is no different than our clients’ businesses, where attracting and retaining top talent is a priority,” JLL Executive Managing Director and head of New York brokerage Phil Palmer said. “Not only does Sam bring energy, focus and creativity to owners and occupiers, he brings those qualities to us as well.”

In his 14 years as a broker, Seiler has completed more than 10M SF in transactions for building owners and tenants in the city, according to JLL. Seiler said the move was a “unique opportunity” that presented itself at the right time.

Last year, Seiler represented law firm Robins Kaplan in its lease for 38K SF at Boston Properties’ 399 Park Ave. He has also represented landlords such as SL Green and Vornado.

JLL has been in hiring mode in recent weeks.

Earlier this month, Bob Knakal, a co-founder of Massey Knakal Realty Services and former chairman of investment sales for Cushman & Wakefield, joined the firm to lead its investment sales unit in New York City. Knakal is bringing his team of 14 people to JLL in the move.

There has been upheaval in the brokerage world this year, with a number of brokers moving between firms, although most of the personnel chess moves have come on the investment sales side of the business.

Following the closure of Eastern Consolidated, for example, Adelaide Polsinelli and Robin Abrams joined Compass’s newly formed investment sales operation. James Famularo joined Meridian Capital Group to head up its retail division.