Avison Young Expands Retail Platform with Strategic Hire in Denver
Global commercial real estate advisor, Avison Young, has appointed Sarah K. Wiebenson as senior vice president, retail, based in the firm’s Denver office. A nationally recognized retail strategist, Wiebenson will play a key role in expanding Avison Young’s retail services platform and market share across Colorado and contribute to the firm’s national retail platform.
Wiebenson brings more than 25 years of experience in retail placemaking, tenant representation, and urban strategy, with a proven track record of helping clients create dynamic, retail-driven destinations. She will focus on tenant representation while also contributing to the growth of the firm’s retail capabilities in Denver where she is the first dedicated retail specialist in the office, with plans to expand the team in the near future.
“Sarah is a highly respected and high-profile addition to our team, and her expertise will be instrumental as we build out our retail platform in Denver and beyond,” said Katie Kruger, principal and market leader of Avison Young’s Denver office. “Her ability to connect market strategy with real-world placemaking will bring immediate value to our clients and position us for continued growth in the retail sector.”
Wiebenson joins Avison Young from Grounded Collaborative, a boutique retail strategy consultancy she founded, where she advised real estate investors, downtown organizations, and public agencies on asset positioning, tenant strategy, and revenue-driven placemaking. She is widely recognized for translating complex market dynamics into actionable strategies that increase foot traffic, support long-term asset value, and create engaging, community-focused environments.
Prior to founding Grounded Collaborative, Wiebenson served as vice president of economic development for the Downtown Denver Partnership. In that role, she led retail activation efforts along the 16th Street Mall during a multi-year reconstruction, successfully supporting the retention of every small business impacted by construction. Her public sector experience also includes senior leadership roles with the City of Boulder, where she led a citywide retail study, developed a commercial district revitalization strategy, and played a key role in a high-profile public-private development initiative.
Throughout her career, Wiebenson has developed nationally recognized programs focused on retail activation, small business retention, and district revitalization — many designed in response to periods of economic disruption and built to deliver measurable, lasting impact.
“Today’s retail consumers are more informed and sophisticated than ever,” said Wiebenson. “I look forward to working alongside Avison Young’s talented international Retail Services team to help our clients merchandise and operate retail-oriented destinations that successfully engage customers’ curiosity and long-term loyalty.”
Wiebenson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies and Architectural History from Brown University and a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has also pursued additional studies at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. Her work has earned national recognition, including the 2025 Pinnacle Award for Innovation from the International Downtown Association. She is a frequent speaker, advisor, and instructor for leading industry organizations.
Pinkard Promotes Mike Hager to Construction Manager
Lakewood-based CM/GC and design-builder Pinkard Construction announced the promotion of Michael Hager to construction manager.
Hired in early 2025 as a Senior Project Manager, Mike came to Pinkard with an extensive resume of large projects valued up to $140 million. In his tenure, Mike was key to the successful on-time delivery of multiple high-profile projects that demonstrated his prowess as a team builder and collaborator. As Construction Manager, he will act as team leader, overseeing the successful completion of projects from day one of preconstruction to the final day of warranty.
“Mike Hager is a true professional and a key leader who will take on this role with his whole being,” says Pinkard President Tony Burke. “Mike has shown his ability to raise the standard, and we look forward to seeing him in this new position, helping others achieve similar success.”
With over 18 years of experience in commercial construction, including 15 years in the Denver market, Hager’s background is one of diverse project types, including award-winning experience in office and municipal, recreation, transit/fleet maintenance, multifamily and healthcare. He specializes in general contractor-led design-build and construction management at risk (CMaR), understanding the vital need for team building, transparency, and planning to maximize best value.
Of his promotion, Hager says, “I’m really excited to step into the role of construction manager, and grateful for the opportunity to continue building strong teams, successful projects, and lasting relationships along the Front Range.”
The HCR Group Appoints Vice President of HR to Strengthen Culture and Employee Growth
The HCR Group is strengthening its leadership for its growing commercial roofing platform by appointing Denver-based Marlo Wilkey as vice president of human resources.
As the company expands its network of regional roofing businesses across the Western United States, the addition of Wilkey reflects a continued focus on investing in people, strengthening culture, and developing leaders to support long-term growth.
“We are building more than a collection of companies. We are building a platform designed to scale,” said Mike Erekson, Chief Executive Officer of The HCR Group. “That requires intentional investment in our people, our leaders, and the culture that connects them. Marlo brings the experience and leadership to help us do that the right way.”
Wilkey brings more than 15 years of experience leading HR strategy, talent development, and organizational effectiveness, with a strong background in private equity-backed and high-growth environments.
In his role as Vice President of Human Resources, Wilkey will lead the development of The HCR Group’s people and culture strategy, supporting leadership teams across its regional companies while helping build the infrastructure needed to attract, develop, and retain top talent.
“Marlo understands how to connect people, culture, and performance,” said Erekson. “He has a track record of building strong leadership teams and creating systems that allow organizations to grow while staying aligned and accountable.”
