Title: Senior Vice President, Development
City: Atlanta
State: Georgia
Region: South East
Industry Specialization: Aerospace, Automotive, Chemicals, Construction, Consumer, Couriers/Express, Education, Energy, Entertainment / Arts, 3PLs & Warehousing, Food & Beverage, Freight Forwarding, Healthcare, Industrial, Intermodal, Marine & Ports, Oil & Gas, Pharma & Medical, Public Sector, Railroads, Renewables, Technology, Telecommunications, Transportation & Logistics, Trucking – all modes, and Utilities
CRE Expertise: CRE Development and Advisory Services
John D. Thompson is a seasoned real estate executive with over 28 years of experience in commercial and residential real estate, including investment sales, leasing, underwriting, land development, acquisition, and disposition. Throughout John’s career he has been instrumental in structuring and managing real estate investments across diverse asset classes, facilitating over $4 billion in total transaction volume.
A highly respected industry leader, John has worked extensively with private investors, corporations, and nonprofit organizations, providing strategic guidance on acquisitions, dispositions, and leasing for office, retail, industrial, and multifamily properties. His expertise in syndications, capital structuring, and market analysis has positioned him as a trusted advisor in real estate investment and development.
John has played a pivotal role in the acquisition, development, and syndication of land for industrial, multifamily, retail, and public-use properties. His consultative approach enables property owners and investors to maximize their asset value, making informed decisions backed by thorough market research and financial analysis.
John began his career in residential sales in metro Atlanta before obtaining his broker’s license. His leadership skills led him to manage the largest real estate office in Georgia, including the and the 5th largest in the nation in terms of sales production. John has successfully advised numerous organizations in securing commercial leases and investment properties, working closely with institutional and private clients to structure lucrative deals.
A decorated veteran of the U.S. Air Force, John served in computer and information systems and was honored with the Distinctive Military Service Award and an Honorable Discharge. His time in the Air Force instilled a deep commitment to teamwork, discipline, and mission-driven leadership, qualities that continue to define his professional success.
Education & Professional Affiliations
· eCornell University
· Robert L. Ward Center for Commercial Real Estate
· Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) Candidate
· Urban Land Institute (ULI) Member & Center for Leadership 2025
· Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
· Georgia Institute of Real Estate & Barney Fletcher School of Real Estate
· Northeastern University
John is deeply committed to giving back to the community, actively supporting organizations such as:
· Atlanta Food Bank
· Atlanta Mission
· Habitat for Humanity
· World Vision