Due Diligence: Getting to Know Matthew Preston
We’re thrilled to share the next spotlight in our “Due Diligence: Getting To Know…” series: Director Matthew Preston in Orlando!
Macro: Tell us a bit about yourself, Matthew.
Matthew: I’m a Real Estate & Construction junkie who loves the art of the deal, design, and bringing concepts to life. I’ve worked in many sides of the business for the last 20 years, from General Contracting, Development, Owner’s Representation, and Consultant. Outside of work, I’m an avid traveler. (The more adventurous, the better. The last somewhat exciting trip was canyon repelling in Costa Rica). I’m also a sports fanatic: Boxing, Football, Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Golf, Track & Field. Can’t get into hockey, yet.
Macro: What do you love most about your work?
Matthew: Being able to work “in the grey areas.” For example, diving into the details when there are external constraints, complexities, and limitations to work toward a solution that isn’t “black and white.”
Macro: What is your favorite part of the project life cycle?
Matthew: Not a specific part but rather more general in nature: Being fully vested in the success of the project/program. I believe in the work that I do. I get fully involved in the professional aspects of the project/program, its activities, and its people.
Macro: What is one thing you couldn’t make it through the day without?
Matthew: You are only as good as your team. I thrive in making the team better, peers and partners alike. Team first! It’s cliché but true: There is no “I” in team.
Macro: What are your tried-and-true “work hacks?”
Matthew: Email and digital tools are great, but nothing beats pen, paper, a work journal, and a conversation.
Macro: What hard and soft skills do you lean on most in your day-to-day work?
Matthew: Hard skills – experience from previous projects. Soft skills – speaking with stakeholders, clients, vendors to get a true measure of the intent.
Macro: If you could give one piece of advice to a young professional, what would it be?
Matthew: Trust the process to learn it, however once you learn the process know that the process will be tweaked and adjusted. Manage the expectation.
Macro: Describe yourself in 5 words or less.
Matthew: Optimistic, flexible, resourceful, hard-working, genuine.
