Avison Young has appointed Brett Armstrong as the new managing director for its Vancouver office, effective Monday.

In his new role, Armstrong will focus on executing the firm’s strategic business plan, prioritizing business development and expanding market share across the city and province, said Avison Young in a news release.

Armstrong, who joined Avison Young in 2012, most recently served as the firm’s senior vice-president of office leasing in Vancouver. He remains a principal of Avison Young.

Previously, he was based in Toronto, where he led Avison Young’s downtown Toronto leasing team.

“Brett’s commitment to building the prominence of Avison Young in the region is a strategic priority that I embrace as Vancouver remains a key market in Canada,” said Mark Fieder, principal and president of Avison Young in Canada.

“He has been a top producer for the firm over the last decade; and now that he is stepping into an MD role as leader, mentor, and guide, I know his experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm will serve him well.”

Armstrong’s appointment follows an extensive search process involving internal and external candidates. In his new position, he will focus on driving revenue growth, increasing market share, and fostering team development. Armstrong plans to identify growth opportunities within the existing team while recruiting new talent to join the firm.

Leveraging technology and data-driven solutions will remain a key component of Armstrong’s strategy, ensuring these tools are integrated into all client offerings. He also aims to promote Avison Young’s holistic, collaborative approach by encouraging partnerships with service lines and experts across Canada and globally.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with so many leasing clients – large and small – which has given me tremendous insights into our business, and I believe this has positioned me well for these next steps to lead the Vancouver team,” said Armstrong.

“I look forward to collaborating with all parts of the firm to demonstrate how truly integrated we are, to elevate the Avison Young brand and to help our people shine.”

Armstrong will replace Jessica Toppazzini, who was Avison Young’s first female managing director.

An Avison Young spokeswoman told Connect Canada CRE that Toppazzini has left the firm.

“We are grateful to Jessica for her contributions and wish her the best in the next phase of her career,” said the spokeswoman. “During her time here, she led a team of top talent as managing director, and was also responsible for establishing our valuation and advisory team in British Columbia.

“We look forward to Brett further building upon our strong foundation as a client-first, technology-focused firm committed to helping make critical, strategic real estate and business decisions.”

Toppazzini was also a principal of Avison Young.