IRVINE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Proficiency Capital LLC, a commercial and industrial real estate developer in Southern California, has announced that its founder and president, Jeff Trenton, who served as the company’s leader since inception, has assumed a new executive board member role for the firm. The change follows Trenton’s formal appointment of his successor, Matt Englhard, as part of a strategic, long-term leadership transition plan that became effective during Q1 2023.
“Over the last three decades, Mr. Trenton’s tireless contributions in building Proficiency Capital from the ground up resulted in the company becoming a leader in commercial and industrial development projects throughout Southern California,” said Englhard. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to build upon the company’s strength and vision.”
Trenton, a veteran in commercial and industrial development, saw the growth potential for the Inland Empire early on, devoting his career to this up-and-coming region east of Los Angeles County. He founded Proficiency Capital following his partner role at Trammell Crow Company, where he developed more than two million square feet of industrial projects in the Inland Empire – paving the way for the area’s future progression. His commitment to the industry and the evolution of the Inland Empire was not only underscored by his work, but through his contributions as past president of the NAIOP Inland Empire Chapter, leadership in ULI, and membership in the SIOR Los Angeles Chapter. Trenton’s vision ultimately became his legacy. His efforts resulted in myriad accomplishments for Proficiency Capital – 25+ million square feet of investments and developments across more than one thousand acres, at a recorded value of over $500 million – a testament to the company’s early roots and future-focused outlook.
“My role at Proficiency Capital is among the highlights of my career, and I am pleased to remain connected to this great company as an executive board member,” said Trenton. “It is a privilege to have contributed to the growth of this firm from day one – and now, to pass the baton to new leadership who will carry on its legacy and guide Proficiency Capital to more exciting milestones ahead.”
As Proficiency Capital’s newly appointed president, Englhard brings more than 20 years of commercial real estate experience. He first joined Proficiency Capital in 2015 as vice president, where he led the successful entitlement of more than three million square feet of commercial and industrial space, spanning nearly every city in the Inland Empire and multiple infill land developments throughout Los Angeles. He also served as vice president of Development and Construction for Alere Property Group, where he oversaw the successful development and construction of over 65 tenant improvements, and over five million square feet of new buildings. Historically, he has been an involved industry advocate, holding prominent roles with NAIOP Inland Empire Chapter, including president, chairman of the Legislative Affairs Committee, and member of the Political Action Committee.
Englhard assumes leadership at Proficiency Capital at a unique crossroads, as the development industry continues experiencing the effects of a shifting landscape. “We expect a challenging market over the next 18 months, but those challenges are how we uncover opportunities,” said Englhard. “Companies that rely on outside capital may be hesitant to make a deal. But as an entrepreneurial company with our own capital, we’re positioned to move quickly – giving our clients the winning advantage.”
Proficiency Capital’s long-term leadership strategy also included the onboarding of Carl Haddad, who joined the firm as CFO in April 2021.
“In our constantly evolving world, being part of a nimble organization that is able to pivot quickly is more important than ever,” Haddad said. “Proficiency Capital isn’t a massive conglomerate. It’s sized for success – for our team and for our clients. With Matt taking the lead, we can’t wait to see what’s next.”
The firm’s succession plan follows another recent company milestone – a move from its long-time Los Angeles headquarters to its new offices in Irvine. The transition reflects the company’s commitment to serve its growing client base in Orange County and the Inland Empire in addition to Los Angeles. In addition, Proficiency Capital has introduced a new website and corporate branding, honoring the firm’s significant history as it continues to evolve.
About Proficiency Capital
With 25+ million square feet of industrial developments valued at over $500 million spanning one thousand acres of land throughout Southern California, Proficiency Capital’s team is passionate about taking on projects that large firms can’t – with a focus on transforming communities. Since 1994, the company has served as a leader in the industrial development sector, having chaired the Legislative Affairs Committee for the NAIOP Inland Empire for over a decade and building trust with local elected officials through its foundation of knowledge in entitlement law. Today, the firm’s decades of experience, trusted relationships with local municipalities and nimble, hands-on approach to industrial development benefits all stakeholders, while affording members a 30,000-foot view of their projects. Services have expanded to include third-party development and management, along with the launch of ambitious joint venture initiatives that offer a one-stop solution to brokers, landowners, community members, and investors of commercial and industrial projects throughout Southern California. For more information, visit https://www.pcllc.com/.
Contacts
Cassandra Helmstaedter
Proficiency Capital LLC
[email protected]
