We truly love the retail real estate industry, and it shows everyday. We bring that passion to everything we do.

Our Team

  • Jeff Mason

    PRINCIPAL

    Jeff Mason brings extensive experience and leadership to Mason Retail Group, with a career in retail real estate spanning several decades. His background includes corporate roles with nationally recognized retailers such as Merry-Go-Round Enterprises Inc. and Garden Botanika, where he developed a deep understanding of retail operations and strategic expansion.

    Jeff is distinguished by his commitment to providing individualized attention to each client, a principle that has guided his successful work across the country. His core competencies include strategic planning, site selection, merchandising strategy, and lease negotiation. Throughout his career, he has played an instrumental role in facilitating the growth of prominent brands including Lucky Brand, Guess, Club Monaco, Under Armour, and Arhaus. His expertise has also contributed to the successful leasing and development of major retail destinations such as Harbor East (Baltimore), The Summit (Birmingham), and Bridge Street Town Centre (Huntsville).

    With a rare ability to understand and align both retailer and developer perspectives, Jeff consistently delivers well-positioned real estate solutions that combine strategic value with sound financial outcomes. His enduring passion for brand-building, coupled with his steadfast enthusiasm and dedication, continues to drive long-term success for Mason Retail Group and its clients.

    jeff@masonaid.com | LinkedIn | (410) 340-7907

  • Nancy Ekelund

    PARTNER

    With over three decades of experience in the retail real estate industry, Nancy Ekelund co-founded Mason Retail Group alongside Jeff Mason, bringing a wealth of strategic and operational expertise to the firm. Her professional background includes leadership roles at some of the most respected names in the industry, including General Growth Properties, Woolworth Corporation, and Tishman Speyer Properties.

    Nancy is recognized for her strength in strategic decision-making, budgeting, merchandising, and development. Her extensive experience has cultivated a refined ability to assess the needs of specific markets and to curate retailer mixes that align with each project’s unique identity and goals. This market sensitivity and disciplined approach have made her an invaluable partner in the planning and execution of successful retail environments.

    Her insight, combined with a deep understanding of both national retail trends and local consumer behavior, continues to drive meaningful results for Mason Retail Group and its clients.

    nancy@masonaid.com | (410) 960-6997

  • Kevin Kohnen

    VICE PRESIDENT & PARTNER

    Since joining Mason Retail Group in 2001, Kevin Kohnen has been an integral part of the firm’s continued growth and success. With nearly 25 years of experience in the shopping center industry, he plays a leading role in both the Landlord and Tenant Representation divisions. Kevin oversees key aspects of real estate strategy, including site selection, market analysis, lease negotiations, and the execution of locations across a diverse client portfolio.  His extensive national experience spans a wide range of retail transactions on both sides of the deal, providing clients with well-rounded, results-driven representation. Known for his strong negotiation acumen and deep industry insight, Kevin remains steadfastly committed to delivering outcomes that align with each client’s strategic goals.

    kevin@masonaid.com | LinkedIn | (443) 756-4995

  • Michael Thomas

    VICE PRESIDENT OF LEASING

    Mike joined Mason Retail Group in 2015, bringing with him a strong foundation in financial services following several years in the mortgage industry. Since that time, he has distinguished himself through his proficiency in both Landlord and Tenant representation, contributing meaningfully to the firm’s ongoing success.

    Widely regarded for his intelligence, professionalism, and engaging interpersonal style, Mike approaches each assignment with diligence and determination. His persistence and commitment to client objectives are exemplified by his successful execution of the lease transaction that brought Patagonia to Harbor East in Baltimore—one of the most notable and high-profile deals in Mason Retail Group’s history. Mike remains a key contributor to the firm’s continued growth, delivering strategic real estate solutions across a range of markets and asset types.

    mike@masonaid.com | LinkedIn | (443) 604-9560

  • Mason Mason

    CHIEF BARK OFFICER

    Since joining the company in 2018, Mason Mason has provided great love and joy to the team.

How can Mason Retail Group help your business achieve its goals?