Michael Heeney | Setting The Stage For Future Growth

Richard Costello connects with Michael Heeney.

 An internationally recognized leader, city builder, architect and urban strategist with over 30 years’ experience leading high-profile organizations. Currently with C+O Advisory, Michael Heeney is the past President and CEO of the Surrey City Development Corporation (SCDC), an independently governed, for-profit real estate company owned by the City of Surrey.  Prior to joining SCDC, Michael was the Managing Principal of Bing Thom Architects for over two decades where he oversaw the company’s growth into a leading international practice with offices in three cities worldwide.  

Well known for his ability to create a compelling vision and effectively bring disparate groups together, Michael has successfully led substantial local and international projects, organizations and initiatives, often ones without precedent and in highly complex situations and jurisdictions.

In this episode we discuss the following:

• Thoughts on how the City of Vancouver is taking shape from a building design perspective. 
• ‘Favourite’ building in Vancouver.
• What makes the City of Surrey special?
• The legacy of SCDC.
• The three most important things to look for when hiring.
• How the role of a Development Manager has evolved over recent years.
• Advice for anyone starting out in the industry.
• Quick fire questions, including lessons from working with Bing Thom.