P
hil Stafford serves as Chief Operating Officer for Colliers’ Chicago office, where he has spent two decades driving operational excellence and strategic growth. His journey began in diverse business operations, giving him a holistic view of commercial real estate. Early roles in business development, client service, and strategic planning laid the groundwork for his later leadership.
As head of Colliers’ Real Estate Management Services, Stafford manages a portfolio exceeding 65 million square feet across more than 300 properties in downtown and the suburbs. He has cultivated collaborative teams and delivered innovative, client‑centric solutions that reinforce the firm’s market reputation.
Recognizing shifting industry dynamics, Stafford expanded Colliers’ property‑management arm, securing high‑profile assignments such as Chicago’s Prudential Plaza. Under his guidance, the company averages 1,000 brokerage deals per year, totaling roughly $20 billion over five years.
Beyond Colliers, Stafford served as President of BOMA Chicago, championing members who control a large share of the city’s rentable office space. He introduced the first federally registered apprenticeship program for commercial office property management, tackled regulatory matters, and opposed unnecessary taxes.
Stafford is known for integrity, professionalism, and a relentless focus on client success. His ability to forge lasting relationships with clients, peers, and industry stakeholders fuels Colliers’ growth and competitiveness.
He is also a dedicated mentor and community advocate, sharing expertise with emerging professionals and supporting local initiatives. In his spare time, he coaches youth hockey with the Sabre Hockey Association in Naperville, volunteers with the WINGS Program, and enjoys traveling, hiking, and culinary adventures with his family.
With a 30‑year career marked by leadership, innovation, and service, Stafford continues to shape the commercial real estate landscape and enrich the communities he serves.
