CBRE rocked by blackface scandal involving senior executive

A CBRE incident involving a senior manager has sparked a formal internal review after a photograph surfaced showing the executive in blackface. The company confirmed that a formal investigation was completed and that action was taken based on its conclusions. The image is believed to date to 2012 and appeared on Mark Curtain’s Facebook profile, depicting a darker skin tone, an afro hairstyle, and a red set of earphones around his neck. An anonymous complaint filed with management argued the depiction invoked historically racist imagery by treating racial identity as a costume or joke. Curtain held a prominent leadership role at CBRE, serving as head of advisory and transaction, a job that put him in charge of more than 300 people and on the company’s leadership team alongside the chief executive officer.

Curtain’s standing within CBRE and the scope of his responsibilities made the incident particularly sensitive for the firm, which has publicly positioned itself as a champion of diversity. In January, CBRE chief executive officer Phil Rowland announced that Curtain would step down from the leadership group and take another role within the company. Rowland said he would miss Curtain’s drive, innovation, and leadership while respecting Curtain’s career wishes.

CBRE’s head of investigations, Wade Garrard, said the investigation had been finalised and that appropriate action had been taken to address the concerns raised. When pressed for specifics, a CBRE spokeswoman declined to discuss individual employee matters, noting that “Whenever allegations are substantiated, we take action consistent with our corporate policies.”

Beyond the case specifics, CBRE has emphasized its commitment to diversity in its public materials. The company’s site features a section dedicated to “stories of inclusion and authenticity” and includes a statement noting that the firm “embraces an open dialogue in our workplace where everyone feels safe and belongs,” adding that CBRE is at its best when people with different backgrounds and life experiences come together. Curtain’s biography on CBRE’s own site describes him as “a highly accomplished professional with over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry,” noting he has partnered with clients on iconic projects and has held key leadership roles within CBRE.

The Daily Mail, which reported on the incident, said it contacted CBRE for comment but did not provide additional details beyond the company’s statements. The report underscores ongoing scrutiny of corporate culture and how firms address past conduct in public-facing leadership ranks. Industry observers say the case highlights the reputational risks companies face when past actions come to light, particularly as firms strive to balance accountability with ongoing commercial objectives. CBRE has not indicated any further changes to its executive lineup beyond Curtain’s transition out of the leadership group, but the event is likely to sustain questions about the firm’s internal review processes and its broader diversity initiatives.