Global Property Manager Recruits Former NYPD Boss For Risk Role

Tom Burroughes

7 March 2014

Cushman & Wakefield, the privately-held commercial real estate services firm, has appointed a former top US police officer as its president of risk management services.

The company has named Raymond Kelly, former Commissioner of the New York City Police Department, to the role. He joins the firm on March 24.

Kelly, the longest serving Commissioner in NYPD history, is described by the firm as overseeing a sharp cut in crime during his tenure as Police Commissioner, including a 40 per cent decrease in violent crimes over the past 12 years.

Cushman & Wakefield’s newly-formed RMS group will offer clients tailored solutions to manage and mitigate risks around the world. Kelly will focus on helping clients identify potential vulnerabilities and prepare for and manage risk across a number of critical areas. These include physical and cyber security intelligence, crisis management, due diligence/site selection and emergency preparedness.

In addition to twice serving as the New York City Police Commissioner, Kelly’s career in public service includes directing the International Police Force in Haiti, serving as a Vice President of Interpol from 1996-2000, Commissioner of the US Customs Service, Undersecretary of Enforcement at the US Treasury Department. Commissioner Kelly retired as a Colonel in 1993 after 30 years of service from the United States Marine Corps Reserves, including serving a combat tour in Vietnam.