About

Shawn Bakke is a Senior Director at Cushman & Wakefield, specializing in retail investment sales and mergers & acquisitions (M&A) throughout the United States. With a career spanning over two decades, Shawn has executed more than $795 million in commercial real estate transactions and over 450 closings. His advisory focus includes working with franchisees, franchisors, REITs, family offices, and private equity sponsors.

A recognized leader in complex deal structuring, Shawn is known for his deep understanding of sale-leasebacks, structured finance, and value maximization strategies. He brings a strategic, forward-thinking approach to every engagement and is committed to creating long-term value for clients navigating disposition, acquisition, or consolidation initiatives.

Prior to joining Cushman & Wakefield, Shawn was a Director with Savills, where he led major net lease and M&A assignments nationally. He also served as Executive Vice President at Colliers International, earning several top producer accolades, and began his investment sales career at Marcus & Millichap as Vice President of the Net Leased Properties Group.

Awards & Recognition

• Top Net Leased Broker, Colliers North America (2011, 2014)
• Colliers Max Green Circle of Excellence (2011–2016)
• Colliers Everest Club (Top 10% of Brokers, 2011–2016)
• Marcus & Millichap Chairman’s Club (Top 1% Nationally, 2x recipient)

Areas of Specialization

• Retail
• Hospitality
• Capital Markets
• M&A Advisory
• Structured Finance

Education

• University of Southern California – B.S. Real Estate Finance
• University of Cambridge – Studies in History & 20th Century Poetry