In a notable shift to its local operations, Highwoods Properties has handed over management of all its Richmond-area properties to competitor Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer, the two firms announced in recent weeks. The deal involves Thalhimer taking over management, leasing, maintenance and administrative services at Highwoods’ local properties and includes about 20 local Highwoods employees moving over to Thalhimer as a result. Of the 25 properties Highwoods owns locally, 20 are in Innsbrook. Maiorana said the employees who made the jump from Highwoods to Thalhimer comprise the majority of Highwoods’ local staff. The deal put Thalhimer in control of Highwoods’ local properties effective Sept. 1.