Claire Gondon, JDS Development

Name: Claire Gondon

Title: Project Manager

Company Name: JDS Development and CREWNY member

List 2-3 real estate associations or organizations that you are currently a member of:

• Member and MEE committee vice-chair, CREWNY

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?

In my current role at JDS Development, I am passionate about my work in the development of The Brooklyn Tower, a high profile and beautifully-designed mixed-use project which takes the crown as Brooklyn’s first supertall skyscraper. Designed by SHoP Architects, the project celebrates the expressive potential of traditional architecture, while advancing pioneering technology to create a dialogue between past, present and future. I thrive at overcoming the myriad challenges involved in a project of this magnitude. I am very excited about bringing this tower to life and delivering a project that meets the highest expectations set for it.

How do you contribute to your community or your profession?

I am deeply committed to the advancement and inclusion of all women in any industry, but particularly in the CRE industry.

As a member of CREWNY, the leading organization for professional women in commercial real estate in New York City, and vice-chair of its Member Engagement and Empowerment (MEE) Committee, I am a driving force of CREWNY’s mission. The MEE Committee launches programs and initiatives that expand and strengthen the CREWNY community. I also served on a committee responsible for the development and implementation of CREWNY’s career and community outreach educational, scholarship and mentoring programs.

What led you to your current profession?

I have always dreamed about managing prominent projects that would both shape the landscape of a city and bring greater vitality to the community. This materialized when I became an architect and designed large and complex projects. However, I realized that I would have a greater impact as the real estate developer who brings projects to life. While pursuing my Master’s in RED at NYU, taking evening classes, I first worked at Nava then at JDS. Coupling my architectural background with financial modeling skills, transitioning to RED in the most vibrant city in the word felt natural to me.

Favorite quote:

“Minds are like parachutes—they only function when open.” –Lord Thomas Dewar