Q & A with Ryan Companies' Andy Crimmins

In the spotlight this week is Andy Crimmins, vice president of real estate development at Ryan Companies' Kansas City office.

MWM: You recently joined Ryan Companies as a vice president of real estate development—what attracted you to Ryan Companies?

Initially, I was interested simply because of their national reputation as “best in class,” then as I got more acquainted with the people at Ryan, it was clear that they really value their employees and have built the company by treating their employees as family. The company culture at Ryan was a very strong selling point, and I felt like it set them apart.

MWM: What has been the biggest lesson learned for you during the pandemic?

A big takeaway from the pandemic was how important it is to be flexible and open to change. We all saw how quickly things can change in our industry, whether it was trends accelerated or totally unexpected changes, such as where we work and how we interact with each other. Now it seems like we’re in another adjustment phase, as we evaluate returning to pre-pandemic business or keeping some of the adjustments we’d made.

MWM: How can our workplaces be more diverse and inclusive?

We have to start with a commitment to step outside our comfort zone and make a conscious effort to expand our circle both professionally and personally. I don’t think we’ll achieve an inclusive and diverse workplace without all of us feeling a little uncomfortable, and I think it’s okay to acknowledge that. It will take a shift in our mindset to intentionally pursue a diverse, inclusive workplace.

MWM: What is your leadership philosophy?

Lead by an example of treating others with respect and integrity, with the goal of building lifelong relationships.

What motivates you?
Continuing to grow and learn new things in the industry and mentoring the next generation.

MWM: What are some of your favorite things in the commercial real estate industry?
The creative possibilities are endless, and it’s a business built on relationships. Most of the really interesting projects are created by very talented people working together toward a shared vision.

MWM: What are you most looking forward to in 2022?
I’m really excited about Ryan Companies expansion into the Kansas City market. We offer a platform of development services that is hard to beat, and I’m excited to be part of the Kansas City team and to work alongside such talented people.

For more than two and a half decades, Andy has immersed himself in the full breadth of the commercial real estate industry. Drawing on his deep experience in retail, entertainment and mixed-use development and brokerage, he works closely with his clients to achieve exceptional outcomes. He has demonstrated a keen ability to identify development opportunities where others may only see challenges. Andy understands how important it is to ensure the right team is in place to achieve the most success, from the neighboring community, city officials, architects, brokers, contractors and lenders.