Richard Hartz joins Aragon as executive vice president.

In a major appointment, real estate industry veteran Richard B. Hartz, a long-time senior manager at Sam Zell's Equity Office Properties (EOP), has joined Aragon Construction as Executive Vice President.

In his new role, Mr. Hartz, 39, will utilize his extensive operational and management

"Rich has an in-depth knowledge of construction and building operations, in addition to a strong understanding of clients' needs," said Aragon President and Founder Alex L. Getelman in making the announcement. "His background will enable him to serve as a bridge for communication between our clients and our team of construction professionals."

Prior to joining Aragon, Mr. Hartz spent seven years as a General Manager for EOP, where he oversaw the firm's growing New York City portfolio, which included such prominent Class-A properties as Worldwide Plaza, Park Avenue Tower, 1301 Avenue of the Americas, 527 Madison Avenue, Tower 56 and 850 Third Avenue. In that capacity, he supervised all capital construction, tenant improvements and engineering projects. Prior to that, he was a property manager at Jack Resnick & Sons, Inc.