Meet Our Team
Desert Investment Management’s senior management team has many years of experience in all aspects of portfolio and asset management, deal underwriting, fund structuring, financing, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, securities law, and accounting operations.
Simon Misselbrook
Our President, is responsible for the execution of our investment strategy, portfolio management, and the oversight of the company’s operations. Prior to joining us, Mr. Misselbrook was Chief Financial Of ficer of Unico Properties, a leading real estate in vestment company in the north western United States managing over $4 billion in real estate. Mr. Misselbrook was responsible for all of their financial and corporate functions and was a member of its executive and investment committees. Mr. Misselbrook also served as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of multiple Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) sponsored by Cole Capital, the premier non-traded REIT sponsor that held over $5 billion in AUM at that time. Mr. Misselbrook began his career with Deloitte in their audit and assurance group with a focus on real estate and hospitality. Mr. Misselbrook is a Certified Public Accountant and holds the designation of Chartered Accountant with the South African Institute of Chartered Accounting. Mr. Misselbrook is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and received a Bachelor of Accounting Science in Accounting and Finance, as well as an Honors in Accounting Science in Accounting, Finance, and Tax from the University of South Africa.
Jessica Gratz
Our Controller, is responsible for the accounting, corporate operations, tax, and treasury activities for the Company. Prior to joining us, she was the Director of Accounting at Cole Capital, a premier non-traded REIT sponsor, where she was responsible for managing and overseeing all of the accounting activities for the various investment programs. She brings 15 years of accounting experience, primarily in the commercial real estate and construction industry. Jessica earned her Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Arizona State University.
The Firm
Desert Investment Management is a family office focused on making quality investments with exceptional partners and managers leading their industries. Our investment philosophy is built on an unwavering commitment to create an extraordinary, diversified investment portfolio while being a strong fiduciary of our capital. Our expertise and relationships across multiple industries provide unique access to outstanding opportunities and co-investment partners. Our investment underwriting thesis is centered on the following four key pillars:
Opportunities
- Strategic Relationships
- Access to deal flow
- Extensive network building
Enhanced Returns
- Investment Outperformance
- Co-GP capital
- Relationship bridge lending
Risk Management
- Manager Diversification
- Quality Portfolio Management
- Due Diligence Focus
Investor Partner Characteristics
- Strong Track Record
- Longevity and Experience
- Transparency
- Alpha-oriented Team