Shekar Narasimhan, an Indian American, was awarded the 2024 Commercial Real Estate Finance (CREF) Distinguished Service Award by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). This recognition was bestowed upon him during the Commercial/Multifamily Finance Convention and Expo held in San Diego on February 12. Narasimhan, currently serving as the Managing Partner of Beekman Advisors, Inc., specializes in offering strategic advisory services to companies and investors in the real estate finance sector. The award, considered the highest honor by fellow MBA CREF members, underscores Narasimhan’s significant contributions to the commercial real estate finance industry and underscores his ongoing dedication to advancing its objectives.
Mark Jones, MBA Chairman and President of Union Home Mortgage, commended Narasimhan’s leadership and advocacy, emphasizing his pivotal role in the industry throughout his career. Jones expressed his belief that Narasimhan is exceptionally deserving of the prestigious award due to his dedication and impactful contributions. Christine Chandler, MBA Vice Chair and Chief Credit Officer at M&T Realty Capital Corporation, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Narasimhan’s vast experience and service to the industry as inspirational.
Narasimhan’s involvement with the MBA has been extensive, including founding chairmanship of the Commercial/Multifamily Board of Governors and the Multifamily Steering Committee. He has additionally held pivotal positions in different MBA councils, including the Affordable Rental Housing Advisory Council and the Investment Management Committee. Recognizing his exceptional service, Narasimhan has previously been honored with MBA’s Burton C. Wood Legislative Service Award. Prior to his tenure at Beekman, Narasimhan held significant positions, including Managing Director at Prudential Mortgage Capital Company and Chairman and CEO of the WMF Group. Additionally, he co-founded the Remergent Communities Fund and currently serves as Chairman of Papillon Capital. Besides his professional endeavors, Narasimhan is actively engaged in community initiatives as the Founder and Chairman of the AAPI Victory Fund, dedicated to mobilizing eligible voters within the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
