Benchmarks of Success: A look at major career developments in the area

A look at major career developments in the area.

North Florida Land Trust names DeFoor president

North Florida Land Trust has named Allison DeFoor its new president. DeFoor had been serving as interim president since August 2022 after the former president stepped down from the position.

DeFoor joined the board of directors of NFLT in 2018 and was asked by his fellow board members to serve as interim president when Jim McCarthy stepped down from the role. In the last six months, DeFoor has had some big achievements. Under his leadership, the nonprofit land conservation organization has been able to exceed its year-end fundraising goals. He has built the team by hiring a top-notch CFO and COO while lowering the nonprofit’s internal costs. DeFoor also helped to pass a referendum in Nassau County with 68 percent of the vote to provide up to $30 million in general obligation bonds to help fund land conservation.

Hatin as VP of real estate firm’s commercial division

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty has named J. Joseph (Joe) Hatin as vice president of the company’s commercial division. In his role, Hatin will lead the division and oversee the education, training and coaching programs for all Realtors.

Hatin comes to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty with more than 25 years of real estate experience. He entered the real estate appraisal field and obtained his state qualification as a certified general appraiser prior to becoming a licensed broker. His work with both residential and commercial properties led him into career that included property re-sale, purchase and investment opportunities, and a reputation as a leading professional in the field.

During his career, he owned and operated an appraisal business and a brokerage.

Hatin has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. He is active in numerous community and industry organizations.

Tyrell Hill joins real estate firm’s Ponte Vedra office

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty has added Tyrell Hill to the Ponte Vedra/Nocatee office.

Hill was previously with another local brokerage. He has experience in residential, investment and commercial sales. His interest in business and working with people led him to a career as a Realtor. Prior to real estate, Tyrell was a music teacher and plays several different instruments. His passion is brass, and he was a tuba player in the marching band for Greensboro College in North Carolina. When he is not working, Tyrell loves spending time with his wife and two daughters.

For more information, Tyrell can be reached at 904-760-1327, Tyrell.Hill@FloridaNetworkRealty.com and THill.FloridaNetworkRealty.com.

The Ponte Vedra/Nocatee office, located at 333 Village Main St., Suite 670, Ponte Vedra Beach, is managed by Holly Hayes, who can be reached at 904-802-0432, Holly.Hayes@FloridaNetworkRealty.com, and floridanetworkrealtycareers.com.

Mercho appointed MOSH chief development officer

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) has announced the expansion of its executive leadership team, bringing on Maureen Mercho as the chief development officer. Mercho began her new role on Jan. 3.

Mercho brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience to her new role with the museum. Her responsibilities include oversight for all fundraising strategies and activities that enable the museum to continue to grow and serve Northeast Florida. A major focus of her role will also include the MOSH Genesis Capital Campaign, which will fund the development of an iconic, world-class museum on Jacksonville’s Northbank.

Prior to coming to MOSH, she served in a variety of leadership positions with not-for-profit organizations including local, national and international organizations. Most recently, she served as the chief development officer for United Way of Northeast Florida. She holds a Master of arts degree in international relations and conflict negotiation from the University of Indianapolis, as well as a Bachelor of arts degree in communication and public relations from Purdue University. 

Fiato joins real estate firm’s Ponte Vedra office

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty has added Azriel Fiato to the Ponte Vedra/Nocatee office.

Fiato brings to her real estate career valuable experience in the banking and treasury services industry. Her communication, interpersonal skills and attention to detail will give her a solid base to build on as a Realtor. When she is not working, she loves golfing, enjoying the beach, and spending time with her family.   

For more information, Fiato can be reached at 315-882-3891, Azriel.Fiato@FloridaNetworkRealty.com and AFiato.FloridaNetworkRealty.com.

The Ponte Vedra/Nocatee office, located at 333 Village Main St., Suite 670, Ponte Vedra Beach, is managed by Holly Hayes, who can be reached at 904-802-0432, Holly.Hayes@FloridaNetworkRealty.com, and floridanetworkrealtycareers.com.

— Compiled by Shaun Ryan