Nation’s Largest Privately Held Commercial Mortgage Banking Firm Adds Another Principal to Its Owner/Management Partnership; San Francisco-Based Tom Dao Responsible for More Than $2 Billion of Career Commercial Mortgage Production Across All Asset Types
San Francisco, Calif. – Gantry, the largest independent commercial mortgage banking firm in the U.S., has named Tom Dao as a principal and thus partner in the company’s operating partnership. The company was founded as and remains to this day a partnership entity owned by independent principals who are also active in the company’s day-to-day business of commercial mortgage production, loan servicing, debt advisory and related operations.
“To become a Principal with Gantry, you need to cultivate an independent drive that is paired to an unwavering commitment to client service and transactional excellence,” said Mitchell Zeemont, Co-Founder and Principal with Gantry. “We are proud to have Tom Dao join our partnership of active producers as a principal. We are, and always have been, an independent firm that strives to put its people first. Our infrastructure is tailored to support that mission. Professionals like Tom thrive in this environment. This elevation is earned recognition of his accomplishments in commercial mortgage finance, capital advisory, and professional development here at Gantry.”
Tom Dao joined Gantry in 2006 as a Production Associate where he originated loans by pitching, underwriting, and closing loans and then following through with post-closing services. In 2016, Mr. Dao was promoted to the role of Producer where he earned the title of Senior Director overseeing his own production team while maintaining collaboration with production teams throughout Gantry’s regional offices. Prior to joining Gantry, he spent ten years as a commercial banker at J.P. Morgan Chase. Aside from placing permanent, bridge, mezzanine, and construction loans, Mr. Dao is also experienced in raising equity and structuring joint ventures for his clients. “It’s an honor to join the rank of these stellar producers whom I have had the great fortune to work with and learn from for the last 16 years. This is an exciting milestone for both Gantry and me as the firm continues its growth path but retains its independence to provide outstanding services and add value in every project we do for our clients.”
Mr. Dao received his Bachelor’s in Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and his MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Mr. Dao is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and an active member of Asian Commercial Professionals.