2026 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Jillian Hoffman, Inspire by Silverstein Properties

“Mervin and Jillian are both standout emerging leaders whose passion, initiative, and dedication consistently elevate both our team and guest experiences. Through their leadership on key projects and commitment to excellence, they have driven meaningful measurable results while inspiring the colleagues around them. Their ability to blend operational excellence with genuine hospitality makes them true Rising Stars with a promising future in our industry.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role?

Growing up in the Midwest, hospitality always came naturally to me. I genuinely enjoy creating experiences that make people happy. I began my career in musical theatre and initially entered the hospitality field through restaurants and hotel work as my survival job. Through these jobs, I found a true love of building a community in a shared space. I found an opportunity with Silverstein Properties through a temp agency, and the rest is history. Three years later, I’ve found my home planning engaging events that bring together the commercial community in Manhattan.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry?

One of the biggest opportunities in commercial real estate is the growing demand for hospitality-driven experiences. As companies continue navigating the post-COVID workplace, people need meaningful reasons to come into the office beyond their desks. Many professionals spend more waking hours at work than at home, creating an opportunity for property teams to foster connection, community, and well-being. Thoughtful event programming that fits naturally into the workday can transform buildings into destinations and help strengthen both workplace culture and tenant engagement.