2023 Ones to Watch Industry Leaders: Connor Lacefield, AKRF

Number of years in CURRENT position: 4.5

3 skills that you use every day in your position: Communication, organization and strategic thinking.

Best book, podcast, or app for aspiring leaders: “How I Built This” by Guy Raz

Best advice for new leaders in 10 words or less: Focus on effectiveness, even if it comes at the cost of some efficiency.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? I’m most proud of leading consultant teams for the environmental review documentation of the High Line-Moynihan Connector Project and the Pennsylvania Station Area Civic and Land Use Improvement Project. Both projects were top priorities for our client, Empire State Development, and it was exciting to lead these high-profile projects with complex issues and demanding schedules – both of which will be part of the next wave of public and private investment in Manhattan’s west side.

What makes this nominee an Industry Leader? “Connor is a trusted leader of environmental and land use planning projects of considerable size, scope, and complexity. His projects regularly withstand the sharp lens of public and regulatory review and help advance consequential urban planning and policy initiatives throughout New York City.” - Jeffrey Taub, Senior Vice President at AKRF.