He joined TIR in 2022 and his role primary involves leading processes associated with the analysis of prospective acquisitions to ensure accurate and timely valuation and performance underwriting. This entails participating in the acquisition screening process, preparing investment models, conducting valuations of non-timber resources, and managing TIR’s acquisitions databases and reporting tools. Locke also works closely with the firm’s Managing Director of Acquisitions in conducting field-level due diligence. Prior to joining TIR, Locke served as a Portfolio Analytics Intern with BTG Pactual’s Timberland Investment Group, developing models to evaluate cash flows and timber price forecasts and to project their implications on income and appreciation returns for investments located in the U.S. South and Pacific Northwest. He also developed portfolio projections and assisted in the development of models that helped anchor the firm’s annual strategic investment reviews. Locke previously served as a Research Associate with National Valuation Consultants of Denver, Colorado where he produced analyses in support of appraisals the firm was conducting in more than 125 U.S. markets and on 16 different property types, including office, industrial, multifamily, retail and hospitality holdings. In that role, he analyzed economic and demographic data, capitalization rates, vacancy trends, and rental rate trends. He also collaborated with appraisers in valuing portfolios that were worth more than $300 million and that were comprised of nearly 290 properties in 20 states. Locke began his forestry career as a Forestry Technician at Merrill & Ring, a prominent timberland owner and manager, based in Port Angeles, Washington, where he developed an understanding of regional forestry practices and laws in the context of federal and state regulatory frameworks. Locke earned a BS in Forestry and minored in History at the University of the South at Sewanee. He also holds an MFR (Master of Forest Resource Management) from the University of Georgia, where his curriculum concentrated on forest finance and real estate.