Meet Drew McLean: Managing Director at Macdonald Realty

Drew McLean's path to becoming a Managing Director at Macdonald Realty is a story of both planned decisions and unexpected opportunities. With over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry, Drew has built a career that spans from the early days in commercial real estate to taking on leadership roles that help shape the future of the company.

A Career Beginning in Real Estate

Drew’s journey into real estate began not with an immediate leap into the industry but with a more traditional college business route. “After high school, I enrolled in college business courses with the plan of transferring to a university,” he explains. However, while balancing two jobs and evening classes, Drew quickly realized he needed a clearer direction.

With a long-standing interest in real estate, particularly commercial real estate, Drew enrolled in BCIT’s Marketing Management – Real Estate program. Upon graduating in 1993, he started his career in real estate, beginning in research at a national commercial brokerage before transitioning to sales in 1995.

An Unexpected Leap Into Management

Drew’s path to becoming a Managing Broker was not something he initially planned. “At the time, the Managing Broker in my office had been in the role for nearly 15 years, and it seemed like he’d be there for many more,” Drew recalls. But when his predecessor decided to move to Alberta, an opportunity unexpectedly arose.

“I had loosely considered a career shift, especially after my wife and I had our first child, but I hadn’t thought about becoming a Managing Broker,” Drew shares. Out of the blue, head office reached out to him to gauge his interest. The process moved quickly, and before Drew knew it, he was stepping into the role. He recalls, “My predecessor gave me a crash course on a Friday night from 5 PM until midnight, and by the next morning, he was off to Alberta. That was my training.”

Above: Drew McLean celebrating his 20th anniversary as a Managing Broker at Macdonald Realty (December 2019).

The Importance of Networking

Reflecting on his early career, Drew shares one lesson he wishes he had learned sooner: the importance of networking. “I wish I had understood how crucial it is to push yourself outside your comfort zone and build connections,” he admits. Real estate, especially commercial real estate, is just as much about building relationships as it is about properties.

Looking back, Drew says, “When I started, I was young and struggled with confidence. If I had focused more on networking early on, I think I would have developed key skills and self-assurance much sooner in my career.”

Advice for Aspiring Agents

Drew’s advice for new agents is simple yet powerful: “Don’t let the fear of not knowing all the answers hold you back.” Many new agents spend too much time preparing for every possible question a client might ask instead of focusing on actively finding business. “You won’t have all the answers in the beginning, and that’s okay,” Drew says. “What matters is getting out there, learning as you go, and gaining experience.”

Real estate is full of ups and downs, but Drew finds it incredibly rewarding. “You’ll meet amazing people and experience unforgettable moments along the way.”

The Best Lesson Drew Learned

One lesson that sticks with Drew was given to him early in his career by his Managing Broker. After spending hours preparing reports and evaluations for a client, Drew trusted that his hard work alone would secure a deal. However, when he shared this with his Managing Broker, he received a lesson he’ll never forget.

“When I told my Managing Broker that the client had asked me to handle tenant negotiations, trusting that the listing would follow, he asked me if I had a written commitment,” Drew recalls. “When I replied ‘No,’ he laughed and said, ‘You’re screwed.’ And he was right—I never got the listing.”

That moment taught Drew an invaluable lesson about the importance of trust in business, especially when it comes to written agreements. “Trust is built through actions, not words,” he says.

Why Drew Loves Real Estate

For Drew, his reasons for loving real estate have evolved over time. Early in his career, he thrived on the excitement of learning something new every day and the thrill of making deals happen. Now, with over 30 years in the industry, Drew finds fulfillment in using his experience to mentor agents and contribute to Macdonald Realty’s growth.

“It’s about helping shape the future, whether it’s mentoring agents, contributing to our company’s growth, or influencing the industry in small but meaningful ways,” he says.

Above: Drew attended the National Association of REALTORS® Conference in San Diego (2009).

What Drew Loves About Macdonald Realty

When asked about his favorite aspect of working at Macdonald Realty, Drew doesn’t hesitate: “The people. The people here are second to none.” Drew explains that the supportive culture at Macdonald Realty is a big part of what makes the company stand out in a competitive industry.

Fun Fact: The Moonwalk

Outside of his professional life, Drew has a fun hidden talent. “In my late teens, I learned how to do Michael Jackson’s signature move—the Moonwalk,” he shares with a smile. “Not just the standard version, but forward, sideways, and backward.” While Drew has long since retired his Moonwalk performance, he might still be able to pull it off—just don’t ask him to prove it!

Drew's Favorite Quote & Book

Drew's favorite quote comes from John F. Kennedy: “There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long-range risks of comfortable inaction.” This resonates deeply with Drew when thinking about the fast-changing real estate industry. “Avoiding change just because it feels uncomfortable can be far more damaging than making difficult decisions,” he says.

As for a recommendation, Drew’s go-to is the podcast Context with Mike DelPrete. It’s a must-listen for anyone in the real estate industry, offering invaluable insights into the latest industry trends.

Drew McLean’s journey to becoming a Managing Director at Macdonald Realty is a testament to his adaptability, strong relationships, and commitment to growth—both personally and professionally. His story serves as an inspiration to agents who are looking to make their mark in real estate, while his leadership continues to help guide Macdonald Realty into the future.