Boško Tomašević, General Manager of CBRE SEE: We measure impact not only by the projects we implement, but by the trust we build and the changes that remain

- I perceive being included in the list of the 100 most important people in Central and Eastern Europe in the real estate industry as recognition for continuity and consistency - not for a moment, but for long-term commitment to work with clients and team development. Personally, this is a reminder to me that leadership means responsibility: setting standards, keeping your word, and building an environment where people can reach their maximum potential. I see the greatest value of this recognition in that it reflects the trust we have built in the market.

- New York taught me agility and discipline, i.e. speed without compromising on quality, clear goals and performance measurement. This approach has been present throughout my career and I apply it in leading teams - by establishing a clear structure of responsibility, preparation for effective decision-making, and a culture where results are visible - on the project, in the relationship with the client and in the way the team progresses.

- I would say that the results we have achieved are the result of a clear strategy and consistent implementation. We expanded our capacities strategically - from new regional offices to the introduction of new services. But the biggest factor in our growth is people. We have built a team that shares the same values ​​and has the courage to push the boundaries. A culture of collaboration and trust has enabled us to react quickly to changes and create solutions that deliver long-term value.

- Rapid growth can easily compromise quality if you don`t have clear processes and a customer-centric culture. From the very beginning, we have set standards that do not change regardless of the workload - we invest in people, technology and training to ensure that our service always meets the highest criteria. Growth is important, but sustainable growth that does not compromise quality is the only right path.

- The opening of these two offices, in addition to the existing ones in Belgrade and Sofia, was a confirmation of our strategy to be present where the market is developing the fastest.

The real estate market in Southeast Europe represents a diverse landscape and a combination of developing markets. Its attractiveness is continuously growing, which leads to increasing activity in the development of projects and investments. What is key for our region is that the markets tend towards balanced conditions - the commercial real estate market is not oversaturated, but projects are created in response to real needs. This is why real estate here remains in high demand, with limited vacancy rates, competitive rents and attractive yields.

- The real estate market in Southeastern Europe is currently showing stability, with selective growth in certain segments. Serbia, as one of the key markets of the region, follows this trend with stable investment activity, a more mature market, with greater transparency and increasingly informed investors. Although previous years have brought volatility, we see clear opportunities today.

Logistics and industrial facilities recorded the greatest momentum, fueled by the nearshoring trend, increasing demand for modern warehouses and infrastructure investments. The retail sector is undergoing transformation - retail parks are expanding in secondary and tertiary cities, while shopping centers are adapting to the habits of end consumers by introducing additional entertainment facilities, as well as restaurants and cafes. The office market in Belgrade remains stable with a low vacancy rate, while the hotel sector is experiencing strong growth thanks to tourism and preparations for EXPO 2027.

In the next three to five years, the most promising segments will be industry and logistics, hotels in Belgrade and tourist destinations, retail parks and first-class office spaces. We expect the market to remain stable, which is helped by the fact that the market is not flooded with modern spaces in any segment and that investors carefully follow trends here and beyond, and make their strategic decisions accordingly. We live in a period that brings numerous challenges and changes, and the response of the real estate market and its participants is "adjustment". At the same time, further development offers many opportunities for owners and investors who follow trends and understand local dynamics.

- Excellence is a habit, not a campaign. CBRE`s culture of excellence is based on our RISE values ​​- respect, integrity, service and excellence. This means that every day we build an environment where ideas are valued, diversity is respected, and where decisions are made transparently. Integrity is the foundation of the trust we have with clients and within the team, while top-notch service is our standard, not the exception. We foster excellence through continuous learning, knowledge sharing and clear goals that inspire people to give their best. We believe that success comes when a team is supported, has the freedom to innovate and is held accountable to deliver the best.

- My advice to young people who want to build a career in this industry is to be patient and not be afraid to ask for explanations. Credibility is built through hard work, consistency and a willingness to learn from every experience. At the same time, don`t forget that work should also be fun - when you enjoy what you do, results come more easily. In the dynamic environment of the real estate market, flexibility, curiosity and proactivity are your greatest allies.

For the company, attracting, retaining, but also developing top talents within the company is crucial, because the quality of service is a direct combination of knowledge and stability of the team. That`s why at CBRE, we offer clear development paths to every employee, the possibility of working on regional projects and an environment where performance is recognized.