Samantha (Sam) May joined FIA in 2024 as an Investment Analyst, serving both the Investment Management and Real Estate Transactions Teams. Sam is responsible for supporting the Investment Management Team on portfolio through property-level analysis. She also contributes to the evaluation of new investment opportunities and supports FIA’s analytics projects and capabilities in cross-firm collaborations. Sam leverages her data analysis and management knowledge to streamline processes for teams across the company.

Previous Experience

Prior to joining FIA, Sam was a Strategic Consultant with ResourceWise (Forest2Market) where she assisted forest products consumers with supply chain analyses, feasibility studies, and ad hoch market analyses. Sam conducted these analyses through processing of big data, multivariate regression models for economic and forest production, and market research. Additionally, she was responsible for advising clients on national and international sustainability regulations and associated feedstock choices. Sam provided legislative direction for 28 European Countries on the sustainability of woody biomass sourced from the U.S. South for heat and power. While pursuing her undergraduate degree she worked as a technical intern at SAS where she developed a range of programming skills around data management, integrity, and analysis.

What is your business philosophy?

The best way to meet and exceed expectations of clients is to hire and train great people.

Why did you choose this field / career path?

Much of my time growing up was spent in the forests and preserved natural spaces of the western U.S. where I grew a deep appreciation for our natural resources. While at NC State, my passion for forestry as an industry was ignited through a series of forestry courses. Working in forest investments allows me to combine my statistical knowledge with my passion for our forests.

What is one of the best lessons you’ve learned during your career?

Failure is simply an opportunity to learn and improve.