2021 Women in CRE: Patricia Zugibe, Holt Construction

Name: Patricia Zugibe

Title: Chief Executive Officer

Company Name: Holt Construction

In the past year, what project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?
This year, Holt Construction created a diversity and inclusion task force. The purpose of this initiative is to examine the ways in which Holt can diversify our company from the inside out–from our project teams to our workforce and subcontractors. As Holt’s newly appointed CEO, this task force was a priority of mine for my first year in leadership. 30% of our team is comprised of people who identify as women, and while this number is great for the construction industry, this task force will codify the strategic steps we need to take as a company to create a more inclusive workplace for women.

What books or social media influencers would you recommend to other women?
I have been most influenced by the women that I have interacted with day in and day out throughout my career. Your coworkers, the women that you meet at industry events, the women you read about in the New York Real Estate Journal; these are your most important influencers. Lean on these women, develop networks and relationships with these women and continue to lift each other up.

How do you contribute to your community or your profession?
Holt Construction is a 100-year-old family-owned and operated company, and we are deeply rooted in the communities in which we build. From Dallas, to Boston, we integrate ourselves into the areas surrounding our projects. Holt partners with non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the Susan G. Komen Foundation, while also hosting our own outreach initiatives. Most recently we provided frontline workers at the condo collapse in Miami with meals and we also participate in food pantries surrounding our JFK Terminal 8 expansion project. Professionally, I make it a priority to create space for women in the construction industry. As CEO, I am committed to creating a workplace where women have the opportunity to grow, excel and be acknowledged for their hard work.

How do you keep your team motivated despite conflicts and obstacles?
I believe communication is key, sharing the “why” in everything you do so your team understands your intention and can buy-into your decision making process and your firm’s core values. We have a review process for all of our employees that gives them a constant update on their growth and where there are areas for improvement, so if there are obstacles, we can create a plan to move forward together. Most recently we hosted a two-day intensive training on communication skills for our senior and project leadership. At Holt, we believe investing in our team provides them with the tools they need to motivate their own market sectors and be able to navigate their way through challenges and obstacles.

How do you advocate for your fellow women in real estate?
It is my passion to advocate not only for the women at Holt, but all women in the industry. We can and should have a voice in the industry, that is when we can really cause significant and impactful change. My approach to both is similar: Be a resource and mentor, connect women around me to strengthen their networks and leverage my position provide solutions to obstacles women face in the industry

Why should women consider a career in commercial real estate and related services?
As someone who has worked as an attorney and a public servant, I can tell you that there is nothing more rewarding than planning and building the community around you. Whether it’s hospitals, airports, or schools – when you work in construction you have the opportunity to make an impact on so many people’s lives. Also, as women – we bring a different perspective and offer creative solutions to an industry that thrives on innovation. The commercial real estate and construction industry needs us!

Tell us a thing or two about you that is NOT on your resume or LinkedIn profile?
I love the outdoors and activities and sports that challenge me and expand my horizons. Most recently, my husband and I went swimming with a humpback.