News

CORE Welcomes Chip Lawrence to Sales and Leasing Team

CORE, the largest full-service commercial real estate firm in Northern New England, today announced the hiring of Chip Lawrence to the role of Sales Operations Manager and Corporate Pilot. Chip brings extensive experience in updating systems for workforce engagement solutions and wireless networks. He’s also served in the U.S. Navy as a helicopter pilot. “I’m excited to be taking on this role at CORE,” said Lawrence. “Josh Soley is a sincere leader; he wants to do a good job and make sure everyone is taken care of, from the analyst to the clients. The company is filled with potential—people here are motivated, and it makes for a great working environment.” With over $125 billion worth of property and nearly 20 million acres of land, CORE has seen unprecedented sale amounts over consecutive years on multifamily, retail, industrial, and mixed-use properties. It has a vertically integrated business model, from brokerage to property management and in-house maintenance. Lawrence’s role will be to build further efficiencies into the firm’s customer-facing services, standardizing data and allowing it to be seamlessly shared across verticals. Lawrence has a background in technology and aviation. Hailing from New Jersey, he earned a BS in Aviation Business Administration and Airline Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Lawrence spent seven years in the U.S. Navy as a helicopter pilot. He has worked for Aspect Communications and Witness Systems, managing both hardware and wi-fi systems. He’s also taught flying throughout Maine. “Chip Lawrence brings strong operational credentials to this role at CORE,” says Josh Soley, President of CORE. “He knows how to simplify systems and make things work in a cohesive way. He’s a key part of our team that’s leading the vertical integration of data across our divisions. We’re becoming a more integrated service company in our bid to offer the highest quality customer service.”

May 13, 2025

2024 Women in CRE: Dajana Derman, CORE

On September 27, Dajana Derman, CORE’s Director of Operations and Management was honored in the New England Real Estate Journal’s 2024 Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight. In a brief Q&A, Dajana shared her thoughts and insights on being a leader in this industry, as well as advice for women looking to make an impact in commercial real estate. What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? I’m most proud of leading our team through 360 US-1 in Kittery, a recent large-scale property acquisition that required creative problem-solving and strong collaboration. As director of operations and management, I focus on fostering teamwork and building relationships, which are key to delivering exceptional results for our clients. There are so many moments in a career that remind you why inclusivity matters. Your thoughts, your voice, what you see and know needs to be addressed for the best result possible. Contributing to CORE’s growth and collective success is empowering. What challenges have you faced as a woman in commercial real estate? Navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry has certainly posed challenges, but it’s also been a source of motivation. CORE is different. The team is intentional in aligning strengths with opportunity. Woman, man, you are given the chance to grow your confidence in yourself and your decisions, the ability to assert your point and your voice. Something particularly special is the opportunity to be a mentor and knowing that each team member is a valued influence on overcoming barriers and driving the company’s growth in this field. What is your vision for the future of women in commercial real estate? I was born and raised in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As an immigrant to the U.S. my vision for women in this field is the same as my intention behind coming to this country: the equal opportunity to succeed and lead. I believe the future will see more women, of all backgrounds, embracing their unique perspectives, which will bring greater innovation and resilience to the industry. We need to foster environments where all people are empowered to lead, mentor, and support each other, creating lasting change. What advice do you have for young women aspiring to enter commercial real estate? Don’t underestimate the value you bring to the table. Commercial real estate is an incredibly competitive field, and it demands grit. You can’t give up. You need to be confident in your decisions and the questions that you ask. Seek out mentors, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and always stay true to your vision. Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight? “Dajana is an exceptional leader at CORE, known for her strategic insight and ability to handle complex transactions with precision. Her dedication to excellence, high attention to detail, and client relationships consistently elevates our work. Dajana’s forward-thinking approach has significantly contributed to our collective success while paving the way for many others, men and women, on our team and in this industry. Her talent, vision, and resilience make her a standout member of every meeting and deal, making her an ideal candidate for the Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight.” – Josh Soley, SIOR, CCIM, President at CORE.

September 30, 2024

CORE Announces Promotion of Andre Rossignol to Assistant Vice President

CORE, the largest full-service commercial real estate firm in Northern New England, today announced the promotion of Andre Rossignol from Associate to Assistant Vice President. The move reflects the increasing breadth of CORE’s investment strategies and continued expansion. “Andre’s intensely entrepreneurial spirit and client-focused work ethic makes him an asset to our team,” said Frank Carr, Director of CORE’s Brokerage Division. “This firm is a celebration of skill, talent, and that drive to push harder and grow further. Andre exemplifies the type of leadership that inspires others to help propel CORE to new heights.” Andre joined CORE in 2023. In 2021, he founded Rossignol Performance & Fitness, a gym located in Caribou, Maine – opening a second location in Presque Isle two years later. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine in Presque Isle in 2021. To date, his work at CORE has garnered roughly $5.5M in closed deals. “CORE is a trailblazer in the commercial real estate market, well-known for its innovative spirit and deep commitment to its clients’ goals,” said Rossignol. “I’m honored by this promotion and eager to lean into our continued growth. I look forward to creating opportunities that not only elevate our brand but also empower our team to achieve even greater success for our clients.” In the 18th edition of its index, the Maine Real Estate and Development Association (MEREDA) noted that the commercial component of the index increased by roughly 23 percent. With more than $125B of property throughout the state of Maine and nearly 20M acres of land, CORE has recently begun targeting acquisition deals across the Eastern Seaboard with the company’s recent launch of CORE Acquisitions. “Our success is built on the talent and dedication of our team members,” said Carr. “For those looking to enter this dynamic space, consider a career with CORE.”

August 7, 2024