3 skills that you use every day in your position: Consensus building. Team building, Constant encouragement.
Best book, podcast, or app for aspiring leaders: Podcast - Ghosts in the Burbs, sometimes you need your brain to take a rest and focus on something escapist and fun.
Best advice for new leaders in 10 words or less: Be secure. Share success. Cultivate young talent.
What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? A couple of years ago we undertook a project on the Massachusetts border for the Nashua Housing and Redevelopment Authority. It was an extremely complicated project, involving the first twinning of 9% and 4% LIHTCs in New Hampshire, the issuance of a $39 million TE bond to support the 4% project, FHLBB-AHP funds and other funding sources. I was proud that our small group of attorneys could hold our own and sometimes run ahead of the very fine attorneys representing the other parties in the transaction. I’m especially proud of my partners, Greg Chakmakas and Sue Manchester, who were able to set up the ownership structure and create a complicated tax credit condominium for the “checkerboard” allocation of units. Our dedication to this project typifies the enthusiasm and skill we have brought to the development of affordable housing over the past 25 years.
What makes this nominee an Industry Leader? “Sheehan Phinney has been a trusted partner of Dakota’s for years. In that time, our team has worked closely with Ken Viscarello and we’re continually impressed with and grateful for his expertise, professionalism, and collaborative spirit.” - Roberto Arista, Principal/President at Dakota Partners.