2019 Ones to Watch: Stephen Pacicco, Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP

Name: Stephen Pacicco

Title: Associate

Company Name: Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP

Year that you entered your current field? 2012

What do you consider to be your greatest professional accomplishment in the past 12 months?

I worked as part of a team of Olshan Real Estate lawyers in representing the owner of 80-88 Flatbush Ave., 90-98 Flatbush Ave. and 102 Flatbush Ave., under long term ground leases to affiliates of Alloy Development, in combining the parcels and in converting the owner’s interest from a fee estate subject to a ground lease to ownership of condominium units to be constructed, which will consist of three separate condominium buildings, with office, residential (both market and affordable) retail, a cultural center and a new public school. The approximately one million s/f development is scheduled to finish in 2025. The project was approved by the New York City Council. 

I also worked as part of the real estate practice team on Olshan client George Feldenkreis, founder and former executive chairman of Perry Ellis International, successful completion of the acquisition of Perry Ellis through a $437 million transaction in which it will become a private company. Moving forward as a private company, Perry Ellis will focus on the long-term strategy of owning and operating brands. The transaction won an award from The Deal’s Middle Market Awards as the “Top Deal of the Year” in March 2019. 

Who or what do you attribute to your success?

My parents and grandparents always valued education and hard work, and they provided me with the educational opportunities needed to reach my full potential. I would not be where I am today without their guidance and support, and I am eternally grateful. 

What advice can you offer to someone who is interested in a career in your industry?

Going to law school and becoming an attorney is a very rewarding career path, and many in our profession make significant positive impacts on a daily basis. As all know in our profession, law school has become a very expensive endeavor (in both financial and opportunity costs). Given these significant costs, any prospective law student should take the time to seriously consider why they want to become an attorney and attempt to put themselves in situations (through internships or as a paralegal) to determine what their day-to-day experience would be like after law school. 

Who are some leaders that you admire and why? ?

Warren Buffett and Dwight Eisenhower. Buffett’s patience, discipline, and keep it simple approach towards investing has inspired thousands (including myself) and helped countless others in their pursuit of financial independence. Eisenhower inspired and led thousands of men to battle in order to preserve our democracy and allow future generations to continue to enjoy the freedoms that we enjoy today.

How have your life experiences impacted who you are professionally?

I graduated from college in the Spring of 2009 during the midst of the financial crisis. Living through that economic period taught me not to take anything for granted, and to also appreciate the better times and enjoy life.