Chief Real Estate Officier
Hanson reports to Rachel Satterfield, VP of Finance and Treasurer for Duke University, and Lisa Goodlett, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer for DUHS, Karl Hanson became the University’s Chief Real Estate Officer effective May 4, 2026.
Hanson leads the strategy, development, acquisition and management of Duke’s real estate portfolios, ensuring that real estate assets support academic, research, clinical and operational priorities.
He brings more than 25 years of experience in commercial real estate, development, asset management and real estate law. Most recently, he served as Executive Director of Real Estate for Baptist Health System in Jacksonville, Florida, where he reported to the Chief Financial Officer and oversaw the organization’s full real estate portfolio.
Prior to his healthcare leadership experience, Mr. Hanson held senior roles in commercial real estate development, asset management and legal leadership. His background uniquely blends executive-level real estate expertise with deep legal experience, enabling him to navigate complex transactions, regulatory requirements and partnership structures while advancing strategic objectives.
Hanson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Washington & Lee University and a JD from the University of Florida College of Law. His appointment reflects Duke's commitment to a more strategic and commercially sophisticated approach to real estate management and investment.