2021 Women in CRE: Tammy Ching, Lesso Mall Development Long Island, Inc.

Name: Tammy Ching

Title: Director of Tenant Coordination & Construction

Company Name: Lesso Mall Development Long Island, Inc.

In the past year, what project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?
Working alongside my colleagues at Lesso Mall Development, over the past year, I’ve overseen the redevelopment and reintroduction of Samanea New York, an iconic Long Island shopping destination. I’m most proud of helping to bring the property’s occupancy rate from 20% to 66% over the past two years. I’ve also worked very closely with our tenants to successfully build out and open the Bloomingdale’s Furniture Outlet, which is the first anchor tenant to open at the property in over 20-years. I am also working alongside 99 Ranch Supermarket to build out and open their first New York location, expected to open end of 2021. Both are custom construction projects that include large scale build outs and extensive interior upgrades.

How do you keep your team motivated despite conflicts and obstacles?
I consider myself an open-minded individual and work side by side with my team, always considering others’ suggestions and recommendations. I encourage everyone to do the same. I believe this creates a positive work environment, helps to motivate and helps to alleviate any conflicts that might arise. Patience among everyone on the team is also encouraged and that includes listening to everyone’s concerns on a regular basis and working as a team to address issues and challenges and resolve conflicts.

How do you contribute to your community or your profession?
I have worked closely with the notable Retail Design Institute and in 2016, was named a judge of their prestigious International Store Design Competition which works with students at universities across the country to develop educational retail design and architecture programs. I am also a member of the Four Seas theatre group, an Asian non-profit organization that works to promote Chinese arts and theatre. I am also a member of the Project Management Institute.

What books or social media influencers would you recommend to other women?
“BASIC BLACK: The Essential Guide for Getting Ahead at Work (and in Life)”

Why should women consider a career in commercial real estate and related services?
A career in commercial real estate can be highly rewarding but I believe, is really best suited for those that pay great attention to details and like to problem-solve. I also feel that women in general, are strong and tough when they need to be which is very important and very much needed in order to succeed. For those that do choose a career in this industry, the rewards are plentiful! You get to work alongside many other ambitious and creative minds that work in unison to produce results.

Tell us a thing or two about you that is NOT on your resume or LinkedIn profile?
I traveled to the U.S. from the other side of the world by myself and without my family. I created a new journey for my new life in the U.S., and am very proud of this.