David Blackwell, District Council and Residential LPC Vice Chair

Partner, Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis LLP

Q: How did you first get involved with ULI and your committee?

I met then-Executive Director Kate White at a ULI event in early 2009, and she encouraged me to join a committee. I joined the Policy & Practice committee that year, and have been involved in one or more committees since, including East Bay Programs, SF Programs, Bay Area Programs, SF Fall Meeting, the Residential Local Product Council, and the Executive Committee. Each was a great experience.

Q: What’s a memorable connection you’ve made through ULI? 

I have met so many wonderful professionals through ULI over the years. ULI is a great way to become involved in the business community, and joining a committee is the best way to become even more integrated.

Q: What keeps you engaged with ULI SF and what are you most excited about in the near future?

When Bob Burke and Bryant Sparkman asked me to join the Residential LPC, that was a perfect segue from my work at Bay Area Programs. The LPC is comprised of 60 top notch real estate professionals, and I enjoy working with my vice-chairs and co-chairs on that committee. It’s a very collegial group. What I’m most excited about is my new role as District Council Vice-Chair and continuing working with our great Executive Board and Staff.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish in the next year? 

Stay healthy; get more housing projects approved; attempt to fill Eric Tao’s shoes as Council Chair; and spend more time with my youngest daughters before they head off to college in a couple of years.

Q: What’s your leadership philosophy/style?

I’m pretty hands off. I have worked for micro-managers before, and my preference is to let people learn by doing, with appropriate supervision.

Q: Outside of work and ULI, what do you enjoy doing?

I know I am required to say “spending time with family and friends,” so I will (and it’s true). Beyond that, I like to get away from paved surfaces when I can, whether it be fly fishing, backpacking, skiing, golf, etc. I haven’t had much time for those pursuits lately, but I hope to find a way to integrate them more into my life while I’m still relatively active.

Q: What’s at the top of your ‘bucket list’?

Making it another 30 years without kicking the bucket.

Q: What’s your must-have food or drink?

Gin martini, wedge, ribeye.