
Paul Donovan
EXPERIENCE
Paul Donovan began his career in corporate accounting at Cargill Inc., where he gained valuable experience working within large organizations. He then co-founded a commercial building maintenance company, growing it to 100+ employees before successfully selling it to Marsden Companies in 1996. At Marsden, Paul served as Vice-President from 1996 to 2002, overseeing sales and marketing while actively participating in enhancing the customer experience. During his tenure, he worked closely with a dedicated team to double the size of the business. In 2002, Paul joined United Properties’ corporate real estate group, which later became Cushman & Wakefield, where he consistently achieved ‘Top Producer’ status representing corporations, non-profits, and professional service firms.
Paul possesses extensive experience in operations and governance, having worked with numerous organizations. He has a proven track record of leading and growing organizations, with significant success in team building and revenue generation. His expertise includes site selection, transaction management, facility management, property dispositions/acquisitions, financing, and project management. Recognized for his creativity and strategic development, Paul has implemented successful strategies for clients, earning numerous top real estate transaction awards.
His recognitions include:
- Most Significant Lease Transaction Finalist Award-Maslon, Winthrop & Weinstine & RBC Wealth Management Headquarters
- America’s Achievement Award-Cushman & Wakefield
- Midwest Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame
- MN Broker Award for Outstanding Value Created by a Brokerage Team-NAIOP
- President’s Award and Eagle Award-Cushman and Wakefield Northmarq
EDUCATION
Paul earned a bachelor of science degree in Accounting from the Marquette University.
INTERESTS
- Spending time with family and friends
- All outdoor activities – skiing, biking, hiking, etc.
AFFILIATIONS
- MNCAR – Minnesota Commercial Association of Realtors
- Board Chair, Sisters of St. Joseph Carondelet Foundation
- Board Member, Catholic Finance Corporation
- Board Chair, Achieve! Minneapolis
- Board Member, Great Minneapolis Crisis Nursery
TESTIMONIALS

“Trust is a very important issue for me when selecting a real estate broker. The trust I have in this team provides me great confidence that General Mills’ best interests are being considered throughout any type of real estate negotiation.”

"Focus Financial has partnered with this team because of their market knowledge and strong industry relationships. We have worked together on numerous real estate transactions in various sub-markets over the last 15 years. We have tremendous confidence that the team will deliver professional real estate advice."
NEWS & UPDATES
Forte Principal Steve Brown selected as Broker of the Year by Minnesota Real Estate Journal
NEWS POSTForte Principal Steve Brown selected as Broker of the Year by Minnesota Real Estate JournalAt the annual Minnesota Real Estate Journal awards on May 1, Steve Brown, one of Forte’s three principals, was selected as the 2025 Broker of the Year for his stellar...
Considering a DIY Commercial Build or Renovation? Two Cautionary Tales
NEWS POSTConsidering a DIY Commercial Build or Renovation? Two Cautionary TalesBy: John Young, CCIM, Vice President-Advisory & Wally Tufvander, Vice President-Project ManagementIn our work with business owners from all types of industries, we often hear the desire to...
Managing risk in commercial real estate amid tariff changes
NEWS POSTManaging risk in commercial real estate amid tariff changesBy: Paul Donovan, COO-Forte and contributing partners: Dustin Benz, President-iSpace Environments and Erik Olson, Director of Business Development-Mission ConstructionThe current tariff landscape is...