The Ardent Companies (Ardent), an Atlanta-based private real estate firm, has named Michael DeGance and Scott Werbel as partners. This decision reflects a shared commitment to the long-term success of the firm and Ardent’s recognition of the exceptional capabilities of both individuals.

“Michael and Scott have demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and vision for more than a decade,” said Matt Shulman, CEO of Ardent. “This recognition as partners is a testament to the impact they’ve made on the firm. Expanding our partnership strengthens the stability of our platform, with continuity and alignment, and reinforces our commitment to delivering lasting value for our investors.”

DeGance has been with Ardent since 2012 and currently serves as a managing director, overseeing investor relations, financial reporting, and fundraising. 

“I’m honored to be named partner at Ardent. Over my 13 years with the firm, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of our team’s hard work. I’m excited to continue working alongside the team and our investors, and to help lead the firm into its next chapter,” said DeGance. 

Werbel joined Ardent in 2014 and is a managing director, focusing on real estate acquisitions, originating bridge loans and acquiring non-performing loans and distressed debt. He leads commercial real estate transactions and joint ventures across various property types, including shopping centers, high-street retail, office, mixed-use properties, and land, primarily in the Southeast, Midwest, and Northeast. 

“The firm’s collaborative culture and entrepreneurial spirit have been a driving force behind our success,” said Werbel. “I am eager to continue building on that foundation and helping guide Ardent’s growth as a partner.”

The partnership announcements follow several other significant milestones this year. Ardent launched Financial Fund VI, furthering its focus on originating senior lien debt to deliver risk-adjusted returns. Targeting a $600 million equity raise, Fund VI continues the firm's bridge debt strategy by building on $2.6 billion raised since 2015. 

Ardent Development is also building multiple retail and mixed-use developments, including Westside Bottling in Durham, North Carolina, Liberty Yards in Largo, Florida, and the redevelopment of the Seminole Town Center site in Sanford, Florida. These projects continue Ardent’s history of Southeastern retail development, which includes notable projects such as 1010 Midtown and West Midtown Center in Atlanta, Georgia, and six retail/mixed-use developments in Nashville’s Broadway district.

To learn more about Ardent, visit theardentcompanies.com.