U.S. Equities Names Gary Michon General Manager of Willis Tower

CHICAGO – U.S. Equities Asset recently named veteran portfolio and property manager Gary Michon its vice president and general manager of the iconic Willis Tower, formerly Sears Tower.  Michon will manage the operations of the 4.5 million square foot world-famous mixed-use building, including its office, retail, broadcast, parking and Skydeck Chicago business units.

“We are excited to have such an experienced and respected property management leader as part of our team,” said Katherine K. Scott, Managing Director and Executive Vice President of U.S. Equities. “This is an incredible time for U.S. Equities realizing success from bringing a confident new approach to tenant relations, and community and consumer outreach at Willis Tower. Gary’s experience will be well matched with the scale and scope of the plans underway to make this building as relevant and innovative for future generations as it has been since it was first built in the 1970s. The building anchors our city’s skyline and is being rediscovered as its premier place for business.”

In June, U.S. Equities and Willis Tower’s owners, 233 S. Wacker Drive, LLC, unveiled plans for the largest sustainability and modernization project of an existing building ever undertaken, designed to reduce the base building’s energy consumption by 80 percent. In addition, U.S. Equities leasing initiatives have produced more than one million square feet in new or renewed tenant leases since taking over management for the building in 2007. Most recently, the building’s observation area, Skydeck Chicago, debuted The Ledge, offering visitors a chance to take in a thrilling view – 1,353 feet straight down. The Skydeck lobby area renovation matches this view with new museum-quality exhibits celebrating Chicago’s rich history and culture.

“I am honored to join U.S. Equities and the Willis Tower team during this momentous time in its history,” said Michon. “U.S. Equities has an exceptional track record and passion for repositioning great Chicago buildings. The firm’s initiatives at Willis Tower are already making a big impact. From the response to the modernization plans to the tremendous leasing successes to the throngs of daily visitors to the Skydeck, the building is thriving with renewed energy.”

Michon joins U.S. Equities with more than 23 years of experience managing commercial real estate properties throughout the Midwest and has extensive expertise in managing several of the largest properties in Chicago. Michon most recently served as a vice president and regional director of operations with Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc. During his eight years there, he assisted district managers with business development in the North Central Region, and oversaw regional property operations in Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, Illinois and Texas.

Prior to joining Grubb & Ellis, Michon spent eight years as general manager of various commercial properties for Cushman & Wakefield/Premisys Real Estate. Properties included CNA Plaza, 222 South Riverside, JP Morgan Plaza (formerly One First National Plaza), 225 North Michigan Avenue, and 10 South LaSalle Street (formerly Manufacturers Hanover Plaza).

Michon holds a bachelor’s of science degree in finance from Northern Illinois University, and has had his Illinois Real Estate Sales License since 1985. He resides in Chicago and is a member of the Building Owners & Managers Association.