W
orthe Real Estate Group has appointed Chris Graham as its chief investment officer to oversee its inaugural fund, Worthe Fund 1. The Santa Monica-based developer aims to invest in commercial properties along the West Coast through this fund. Graham brings over 29 years of experience to the role, having previously served as managing director at Blackstone's real estate group, where he led West Coast acquisitions.

    Graham has a track record of significant deals, totaling over $50 billion, and was involved in several joint ventures while at Blackstone, including the recapitalization of Sunset Studios. He also played a key role in Blackstone's majority purchase of Worthe's Burbank office portfolio in 2017. Graham previously held roles at JPMorgan and Archon Group.

    "We're excited to have Chris on board as we launch our inaugural fund," said Jeff Worthe, president of Worthe Real Estate. "We believe high-quality assets in the office sector will continue to perform well." Despite record office vacancies due to remote work, Worthe is doubling down on quality office investments, citing increased leasing activity and employers pushing employees back into offices.

    Worthe Real Estate Group owns over 8 million square feet of commercial properties across Los Angeles, including The Tower and The Pointe I in Burbank.