2024 Women in CRE: Bianca Zimmerman, Cullen and Dykman LLP

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight? 

“Bianca’s exceptional contributions to the firm’s financial institution clients is well renowned, particularly in the field of specialty lending and commercial real estate. As a highly skilled counselor, she is committed to delivering innovative solutions required to get deals done. Her impact on the firm is far-reaching well beyond her role in structuring and negotiating high-profile deals. In addition to providing invaluable guidance to borrowers and lenders alike, she is able to dedicate herself to management matters as she serves on the firm’s executive committee and she is also the head of the firm’s hiring program. Bianca’s recognition is well deserved!” - Christopher Palmer, Managing Partner at Cullen and Dykman LLP. 

What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? The recent deal I am the proudest of would be a bond deal which I closed for a bank client. Any deal for a non-profit, but especially real estate deals always leave one with a feel-good feeling. Tangible good for the community is coming out of my work as a bank attorney and that is wonderful. The deal involved several moving pieces, and we worked to collaborate with the placement agent, banker, bond counsel and borrower’s attorney. Except for the borrower and its attorney all key positions were filled by women which was a special experience. 

What are the most important factors young women should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with? 

The most important factors young women should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with are whether there are women in leadership positions, the percentage of female partners and opportunities for mentorship. Cullen and Dykman currently has three women on its executive committee, of which I am one. At Cullen and Dykman, 30% of our partners are female and we have a women’s group which focuses on mentorship. I am fortunate to be a part of the leadership at Cullen and Dykman where the talents and careers of women are both respected and developed.