In commercial real estate, “culture” can often sound like an afterthought—something mentioned between deals. But for Oxford Partners, it’s the whole business model. The Texas-based firm, specializing in tenant and buyer representation, has been named one of CRE’s Best Places to Work for 2025 by GlobeSt., a nod to its standout employee experience and people-centered operations in an industry often driven by quotas and competition.
A Different Kind of Brokerage
Founded in 1997, Oxford Partners has built its reputation on conflict-free representation—eschewing landlord ties in favor of pure tenant advocacy. The firm closes more than 200 transactions a year, but what sets it apart isn’t the volume—it’s the structure.
While many brokerages thrive on internal rivalry, Oxford doubles down on mentorship, collaboration, and long-term career growth. Its brokers operate with autonomy, backed by deep training resources, pipeline tools, and a support system that’s refreshingly light on bureaucracy.
Managing Partner Ryan Hartsell, SIOR, MRE, puts it simply: “Our culture isn’t just a priority—it’s the foundation. We’ve created a place where good people want to work, stay, and succeed.” That formula appears to be working: the company has improved both retention and recruitment while keeping client satisfaction high.
Beyond the Numbers
The recognition from GlobeSt. comes on the heels of Oxford’s third straight year on the Inc. 5000 list, where it ranked No. 117 in the real estate category for 2025. For a mid-sized Houston firm, that kind of consistency points to a sustainable, scalable culture—not a flash in the pan.
“Winning this award means a lot because it reflects the voices of our own people,” added Managing Partner Chase McAteer. “We’re proving that putting employees first doesn’t just feel good—it drives better client outcomes.”
Why It Matters
Oxford’s recognition underscores a larger trend sweeping through commercial real estate and professional services: firms are realizing that employee experience is business strategy. In an era when top brokers and agents have more career mobility than ever, culture has become the ultimate retention tool.
GlobeSt.’s 2025 honorees are part of a growing wave of companies redefining what “best place to work” means—less about ping pong tables, more about autonomy, trust, and mentorship. Oxford’s win signals that people-first doesn’t mean profit-last—a message that resonates far beyond Texas.
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