McDonald’s Real Estate Leader Shares Career Insights with UIC Business Students
Stuard Handler Department of Real Estate Students Are Lovin' It
Christopher Smitherman II, Senior National Real Estate Manager at McDonald's Corporation.
Chris Smitherman, National Real Estate Manager for McDonald’s, visited UIC Business to speak with students in the Stuart Handler Department of Real Estate. He offered an inside look at McDonald’s real estate operations, including how the company identifies prime locations for new restaurants and structures lease agreements with franchisees.
Smitherman also shared his career journey, discussing his transition from another part of the company into real estate and the skills he believes are essential for long-term success. Students were highly engaged throughout the session, asking thoughtful questions about both McDonald’s real estate strategy and Smitherman’s professional path.
Modified on January 27, 2026