2026 Women in Commercial Real Estate: Tobi Jaiyesimi, Kasirer

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

The Monitor Point Project, which was approved by the city council in July. This project is an excellent example of public-private partnership, and when completed will deliver over 1,300 units of housing with 50% permanently affordable. Monitor Point will include publicly accessible open space, long-term rent payments to the MTA, contributions to the park department, and more. The approvals come after years of relationship building, stakeholder engagement, and hundreds of local community meetings. I was proud to be part of the team building a coalition of support to advance the project.

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

Leading with respect and integrity has had a significant impact on my career. It has helped to build and maintain relationships. It’s made it easier to enter productive negotiations and get support for resolving issues and advancing projects. People are more likely to pick up the phone and be responsive when they’re treated with respect and know that they’re opinions and contributions are valued. Especially in government and politics, being respectful of everyone from the principal executive to the support staff is critically important.