2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Jon Popin, Nutter

“Jon Popin has advised clients on all aspects of land use law in New York City for 20 years. He is well versed in NYC zoning codes and the transfer of air rights. Popin represents his clients before all of New York City’s municipal agencies. Known for his practical, results-driven approach, Popin delivers comprehensive real estate solutions for premier developers across the country.” 

What recent accomplishment or initiative are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your firm, clients, or community?

As leader of Nutter’s NYC land use group, I oversaw the sale of a global energy company’s multi-acre parcel on a tight three-month timeline. To secure critical city approval, success hinged on a rarely used municipal pathway to clear title, and required high-stakes negotiations with city officials. My team met multiple municipal critical milestones due to focused determination and flawless execution, including placement on the city’s public hearing calendar days before the closing date. We overcame the extremely challenging odds to advance one of the client’s largest projects of the year.

What daily habit or routine helps you stay focused or motivated as a leader?

Every morning, I create a categorized, numbered to-do list that allows structure and flexibility. 

How do you inspire, motivate, or mentor others within your organization?

A successful motivator must be authentic to those being motivated. By collaborating with each person on my team to understand what inspires them individually, I tailor my mentorship to bring out their best thinking. Understanding their mindsets, strengths, and pressure points comes from understanding my own. I set ambitious goals for myself to plan carefully for success and know how much discipline and support it takes to reach those goals. That helps me tailor the same kind of structure, energy, and accountability for my team in a way that maximizes everyone’s results.