2024 Ones to Watch Rising Stars: Clayton Ross, JLL

“Clayton was promoted to vice president in recognition of his work as a member of JLL’s National Loan Sales team. Since joining JLL, he has completed over $3.7 billion in transactions, including loan sales, loan-on-loan financing and debt placement. He is currently a 2024 Fordham University MBA candidate.” - Michael Gigliotti, Senior Managing Director at JLL.

Beyond your professional achievements, what are some of your passions or hobbies? I grew up in Portland, OR, surrounded by amazing food and beverage, and at 21, I was the youngest professional cocktail bartender in Charleston, SC. I’m passionate about the wine industry and living in NYC allows me to explore the fantastic wine bars that the city has to offer.

Who are the key people in your life that have contributed to your success?  As an attorney, my father taught me how rewarding a client-serving role can be, which directly ties to real estate advisory, where I get to help clients solve business needs. Second to him, the upperclassmen at The Citadel who instilled in me a superior level of perseverance and resiliency. 

Outside of your career, where? else do you seek continuous learning and personal growth?? For three years, I’ve balanced my career at JLL with pursuing an MBA at Fordham University. This past year, they elected me as the MBA representative on the school’s council. It’s been hard work, but it’s incredibly gratifying to develop skills that will help my career in the long term.