Summer, 2004PAGE 5

Ron Simkin Shines as Director of Retail Leasing for Belz's Factory Outlet World Division

For nearly two decades, Ron Simkin has been a leader in the development of Belz's Factory Outlet World Division. As the person in charge of leasing space in existing Belz Factory Outlet Worlds and developing space in new ones since 1987, he stays extremely busy.

Despite his many duties, Ron still finds time to build the relationships that are the key to generating successful leasing deals.

"Relationships and business go hand in hand. The retail world is like an extended family," he explained. "I love meeting new people, building new relationships and going after new business in the process. To do what I do successfully, you have to have good people skills and good business sense.

"Once you have established relationships, you have a better understanding of the tenants' needs and can figure out how to match their needs with our capabilities - creating a good fit all around."

Ron's previous experience as an executive vice president and director of real estate and operations of the Orlando-based Toy King retail chain, coupled with his persistence and dedication to his work, has helped him shine during his time with Belz.

"Ron's devotion and 'can-do' attitude have greatly benefited our company's Factory Outlet division," said Andrew J. Groveman, president of Belz Factory Outlet Division. "During the 17 years that we've been fortunate to have Ron on our team, the outlet division has built and/or leased and managed more than five million square feet of space, stretching from Puerto Rico, to Nevada, to Tennessee, Ohio, Missouri, Florida and Texas.

"Ron has been intimately involved with each of those developments and has been extremely instrumental to our success. We are proud of Ron's achievements and look forward to working with him for many more years."

When asked what his hobbies are, Ron instantly replied raising his three daughters - Chanda, Michelle and Jennifer - all now college-aged - with his wife of 25 years, Mary. Ron added laughingly, "They all majored in redesigning the interior of my wallet."

"However, it's gratifying to write their tuition checks because they are the best hobby anybody could have," he added on a more serious note.