2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Gregg Navins, OMARA Construction

“I’ve known Gregg Navins for over a decade, and he’s truly one of the easiest people to work with. He leads with integrity, stays grounded, and always brings a practical approach to challenges. He’s a great guy who people like and trust, and that’s what makes him a real industry leader.” 

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

Learning to have confidence in myself is the biggest challenge I faced as I started my career. Out of college, I was scared. Afraid to fail. But when I started at OMARA in 1992, it dawned on me that I was a pretty bright guy, and I had a natural ability to solve problems and to connect with people – clients, architects, engineers, and tradesmen. And I never stopped being curious, so as time went by, my confidence grew as well as my abilities to manage construction projects and help facilitate solutions to problems.

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

I try to give each employee the freedom to perform their jobs in a way that works for both of us. This freedom creates an ambition to improve and helps the employee strive for greatness and advancement.

What advice would you share with emerging professionals striving to become future leaders in commercial real estate?

My advice is very simple. Work hard. Don’t take shortcuts. Be the first one in and the last to leave. Learn something new every day. Don’t just robotically forward emails and replies – understand what is being communicated and ask questions if you are not sure. If you demonstrate that you take your job seriously, others will take you seriously, too. Ask yourself: Is this my career, or just a job?

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

I never leave the office until I’ve responded to every email and I make my bed daily.

What book, podcast, or app has most influenced your approach to leadership?

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, by Robert Persig.

Who has had the greatest impact on your career or leadership journey?

I’d have to give the accolades to my parents, who always had more confidence in me than I did in myself