Cresa Promotes Marcus Cook to Managing Principal of National Retail Practice

CHICAGO (March 18, 2026) – Cresa, the world’s leading occupier-centric commercial real estate firm, today announced the promotion of Marcus Cook to Managing Principal of its National Retail Practice. In his expanded role, Cook will lead the continued growth and strategic direction of Cresa’s retail platform while supporting occupier clients across the United States.

“Marcus has made a real impact on our retail business in a short amount of time,” said Tad Laws, Cresa Chicago’s Executive Managing Principal & Head of National Recruiting. “He understands what our clients face in today’s market, and this promotion reflects the trust he’s built across the firm and with the clients he serves.”

Cook brings more than two decades of experience advising retail brands, investors, and developers on real estate strategy. Known for delivering customized strategies that maximize portfolio value, he has played a key role in startup retail expansion, national portfolio management, and site selection strategies that enable brands to scale effectively.

Since joining Cresa as a Principal in May 2025, Cook has rapidly expanded the firm’s retail footprint and enhanced its ability to serve clients navigating an increasingly dynamic market. His work spans both traditional retail and adjacent sectors, including industrial and flex, where he supports clients with integrated portfolio strategies across logistics, warehouse, and distribution needs.

“I’m proud of what we’ve built so far, and this is an exciting next step,” Cook said. “Retail is evolving quickly, and there’s a real opportunity to help brands think differently about how they grow. That’s what I’m focused on: continuing to deliver for our clients and building something meaningful here at Cresa.”

Cook’s promotion reflects Cresa’s ongoing investment in its national platform and commitment to delivering integrated, client-focused real estate solutions.

Under his leadership, the practice group has grown to over 15 million square feet of retail under advisory and approximately 2,000 locations across national retailers. Cresa has several national retail rollouts underway, including the acquisition or disposition of nearly $30 million over the past year.