2021 Year in Review: Thomas Kearns, Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP

Name: Thomas Kearns

Job Title: Partner

Company Name: Olshan Frome Wolosky LLP

What was your greatest professional accomplishment or most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2021?
I represented (along with a full team of Olshan lawyers and a team from Simpson Thatcher) the historic, century old Kaufman Astoria Studios in its sale to the joint venture of Hackman Capital Partners and Square Mile Capital Management, which closed November 8, 2021 after two years of planning and implementation. The Studios encompass more than 900,000 s/f and has been the site of productions for many television series and films throughout the years. The studios join Hackman and Square Mile’s film venture that includes production facilities that are located across the U.S. with future plans for expansion in the UK.

What was the biggest lesson you learned while working during the pandemic?
I am learning to reduce my reliance on paper and have developed expertise in electronic apps on my tablet which has helped productivity.

How has your working environment changed over the last year?
There have certainly been both challenges and opportunities regarding work-life and firm culture. While there may be some form of a hybrid model moving forward, we are working hard to make sure that we don’t compromise our collaborative culture and mentorship opportunities.

What are your predictions for your industry in 2022?
I expect that New York hotels will continue to suffer but that the office market will continue to stabilize. I predict that the residential development market will continue to improve. I am hoping that the retail market starts to show more life since retail is so important to New Yorkers’ quality of life.