Leslie Himmel, Himmel + Meringoff Properties

Leslie Himmel What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2010? I am deeply honored to be this year's recipient of the Bernard H. Mendik Lifetime Leadership Award from REBNY. This award is for exceptional service to the real estate industry and professional accomplishment over the course of a distinguished career. What was your most notable project, deal or transaction in 2010? In December, Himmel + Meringoff Properties purchased a 117,000 s/f building at 158 West 27th Street in record time. The seller required a year-end close, which left very little time for due diligence. We were able to close for all-cash just 14 days after execution of our contract, which easily beat the deadline. This was a highly competitively auctioned deal whereby 5 potential buyers signed a contract. We were chosen by the Seller due to their confidence and certainty that we would complete the purchase and in record time. How do you contribute to your company and industry? In my company I contribute by being the "outside" partner. I bring in new deals and enjoy working with numerous contacts to source new acquisitions. I also contribute by helping with the tenant marketing strategy and positioning to lease the properties in our portfolio. In the industry, I am active in REBNY serving on the Board of Governors and am Assistant Treasurer for the Executive Committee. I founded and co-chair the Economic Development Committee. I am a frequent panelist on real estate panels and I am active with the Harvard Business School Club. What advice would you give to women just starting out in commercial real estate? Be as entrepreneurial as you can by creating equity in your business. Create your schedule whereby you are in control of your hours and how you are spending each day. Reach for the stars and be confident! How do you manage the work/life balance? My philosophy is to work hard and play hard. I have a lot of hobbies which include sports (yoga, tennis, skiing, biking, rollerblading), movies and culture, and exploring New York City! Even though I am always working, I try to schedule vacations to get away and gain perspective. Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career? A lot of the family owners of New York City real estate have been my mentors such as Larry Silverstein. I met Harry Helmsley on vacation in Barbados when I first got into the industry. Over the week he told me stories of all his acquisitions and outlined case studies of his development of leasehold interests. Harry's constant research of New York City buildings and streets along with his zest for business remain my touchstones to this day. Over the last 25 years, my partner Stephen Meringoff has influenced me on a daily basis brilliant mind and creative ideas. What impact has social networking had on your business? Social networking has had a huge impact on my business. Real estate is a "people" business and I focus a great deal on constantly circulating and communicating with people in the industry in order to exchange ideas and explore new possibilities. I also gain a fresh perspective by socializing with people in other industries in my association with YPO and WPO as well as Harvard Business School and University of Pennsylvania alumni groups. My own personal rolodex has over 3000 contacts with many people that I have known well for decades.