Tommy McKay | Expert Commercial Real Estate Advisor in Southern Maryland
Tommy McKay is a commercial real estate advisor in Southern Maryland with more than 40 years of experience, bringing invaluable leadership and strategic insight to McNelis & Associates.
His career spans commercial real estate, economic development, retail operations, publishing, and public service, providing clients with a well-rounded perspective rooted in both business acumen and community impact.
Tommy’s commercial real estate expertise covers Southern Maryland, including Calvert, St. Mary’s, Charles, and Anne Arundel counties. He is known for his results-oriented approach, thoughtful leadership, and ability to align long-term vision with practical execution.
Commercial Real Estate & Business Expertise
With extensive experience in retail management, property management, commercial construction, leasing, and development, Tommy provides expert guidance to commercial property owners, investors, and business clients.
He has successfully managed and developed multi-million-dollar commercial and retail portfolios valued at over $75 million, led site selection and expansion strategies, and negotiated complex leases, contracts, and financing structures. His strengths in market analysis and strategic management help clients evaluate commercial real estate opportunities with clarity and confidence.
Public Service & Economic Development Leadership
Tommy’s public service background adds a unique dimension to his commercial real estate expertise. As President of the St. Mary’s County Commissioners, he played a pivotal role in county-level economic planning, infrastructure development, and investment attraction. He managed public budgets ranging from $160 million to $220 million, coordinated grant and incentive programs, and collaborated with federal, state, and municipal agencies. His leadership during the BRAC 2005 realignment preserved critical military operations and protected over $250 million in regional federal spending.
Strategic Collaboration & Community Impact
Throughout his career, Tommy has served on numerous local, regional, and national boards representing retailers, wholesalers, trade organizations, and community groups. He is highly skilled in public-private partnership development, stakeholder engagement, and consensus building. His experience navigating regulatory environments, land-use planning, and workforce development initiatives makes him a trusted advisor for complex commercial and development projects throughout Southern Maryland.
Publishing, Advocacy & Industry Leadership
As Publisher and President of Southern Maryland Publishing, Tommy has helped launch and grow multiple publications that highlight local businesses, tourism, and economic opportunities. His commitment to ethical standards, balanced reporting, and community advocacy has earned widespread respect and long-standing relationships across the region.
Honors, Leadership & Professional Affiliations
- Delegate, U.S. President’s Economic Summit (2005)
- Recipient, Governor’s Citation for Excellence in Emergency Management (2003)
- Youngest President, St. Mary’s County Commissioners
- Youngest Chairperson, Mid-Atlantic Food Dealers Association
- Recipient, “Store of the Year”, Supermarket News
- 30-Year Member, Knights of Columbus
- Past Board Member, Richfood, Inc.
- Past Board Member, Maryland Retailers Association
- Past Board Member, Maryland Association of Counties
- Past Board Member, Southern Maryland Workforce Development
- Past Board Member, International Grocers Alliance (IGA)
- Board Member, Leonardtown Main Street Committee
- Vice Chair, Maryland REALTORS® Association – Legislative Committee
Beyond the Office
Tommy is happily married to his wife, Laschelle, and is a proud parent of four children and grandparent to three grandchildren.
He deeply values family, lifelong learning, and ongoing professional development. Outside of work, he remains actively engaged in education, community initiatives, and personal growth.
A Trusted Resource at McNelis & Associates
At McNelis & Associates, Tommy serves as a Commercial Real Estate Advisor and strategic resource for clients and the team. His deep local knowledge, leadership experience, and collaborative approach help clients confidently navigate Southern Maryland’s commercial real estate landscape.
Contact Tommy McKay today to leverage his expertise in commercial real estate across Southern Maryland.
Tommy, as l've known him could be summed up in one word: doer: when a project is giving to his attention; you can be sure Tommy, will complete the job. Tommy, is best at generating new phases of buildings to the betterment of mankind, able to make life more pleasurable, and easy. With Tommy, you can assure that what ever his hands are on, they will be for the good to all concerned. Tommy, is best suited in the limelight as his countenance shines to realize he just helped another person to accomplish their goals in life. I would recommend Tommy to any office that deals with the public.
Tommy is both a leader and a manager, who has vision, garners the resources needed to fulfill it, and manages its execution.