2026 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Lindsay Ornstein, OPEN Impact Real Estate

What was the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in the past 12 months, and why?

Helping Deloitte optimize its New York real estate strategy has been one of the most rewarding projects of my career. Our team evaluated its entire portfolio and developed a strategy that balanced operational, workplace and financial objectives, ultimately leading to a major consolidation on an aggressive timeline. What made the assignment especially meaningful was the opportunity to help create a workplace that reflects Deloitte’s commitment to sustainability, inclusivity and employee experience while leveraging the full capabilities of OPEN and our partners at JLL.

What trend or change in commercial real estate do you believe will have the biggest impact over the next five years?

Artificial intelligence will fundamentally change how commercial real estate professionals serve clients. AI is already helping firms synthesize enormous amounts of market data, identify trends, uncover best practices and develop more creative solutions. Combined with the global data resources available through organizations like JLL, these tools will enable advisors to make faster, more informed decisions that ultimately deliver better financial and operational outcomes for clients. Technology won’t replace relationships, but it will significantly enhance the quality and speed of strategic advice.

What leadership lesson has made the greatest impact on your career?

I’ve learned that your reputation is your most valuable asset. Every decision should be guided by what’s right for the client, even when it means recommending a smaller assignment or a solution that generates less revenue for your firm. At OPEN, we never hesitate to put our clients’ interests first because trust is built over years through consistent actions. As a leader, your personal reputation becomes inseparable from your organization’s reputation, making integrity one of the most important competitive advantages you can have.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women entering commercial real estate?

Be confident enough to raise your hand before you think you’re ready. Commercial real estate offers countless opportunities to build a career around your passions, so don’t be afraid to carve out a specialty that differentiates you. Finding a niche allows you to become indispensable while creating lasting value for clients. Most importantly, advocate for yourself, pursue opportunities boldly and let your expertise speak louder than assumptions. Those who consistently demonstrate their value will help shape the next generation of industry leaders.