Fast 15: Payne Phillips

Payne Phillips, a native of Washington County, is driven by a deep-rooted passion for Northwest Arkansas. His aspiration to excel as a commercial real estate broker is fueled by his desire to contribute to the region’s success, which he considers his primary inspiration.

“I want Northwest Arkansas to be the best place it can be,” he said. “That’s why I like my job.”

Phillips earned an accounting and finance degree from the University of Arkansas in May 2017. A few months later, he landed a job at Moses Tucker Partners, one of the state’s largest commercial brokerage and management firms.

Now a seasoned broker, Phillips boasts an impressive track record of closing deals with prominent national brands like Kum & Go, Casey’s, Starbucks and the UPS Store. His expertise extends to assisting local and regional brands and property owners across Northwest Arkansas in finding ideal locations, leasing spaces or facilitating property transactions.

Unsurprisingly, he said national interest in Northwest Arkansas increases each year.

“If they are unfamiliar, they expect land to be really cheap, so we have to educate them that that’s not the case at all,” he joked.

One of Payne Phillips’ most impactful achievements is his instrumental role in bringing Tennessee-based Tin Roof, a live music venue and restaurant, to downtown Fayetteville’s Dickson Street entertainment district.

Phillips’ professional excellence has been recognized three times with the prestigious CoStar Power Broker award, a testament to his achievements. In addition to his professional endeavors, he manages a diverse investment portfolio representing a seven-figure investment.

Phillips is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the Urban Land Institute and the International Council of Shopping Centers. He passed the CCIM Institute comprehensive exam in April to earn the prestigious CCIM designation.

Phillips is a Springdale Rotary Club member and Paul Harris Fellow, a distinguished recognition for Rotarians.

Phillips says he wants to keep learning as much as possible when considering where his career might lead.

He also advised new college graduates about navigating their professional and personal journey during their 20s.

“Delayed gratification is extremely important,” he said. “Put in the work without the immediate reward and learn as much as you can early on, which will give you a major advantage.”