Category: Spotlight Content

Tell us about a mentor or role model that has influenced your career choices? For over 38 years I have been in the commercial real estate industry and mentored in my childhood since eleven years old. I was raised by a strong force of nature mother, Marie Zere. The kind of woman that just gets things done, a rainmaker, a fighter.

Tell us about a mentor or role model that has influenced your career choices? The partners and directors at HKS have been incredible mentors and role models, instilling in me a strong work ethic and motivation to deliver for our clients and lenders.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? Drifters Restaurant located on Middle Country Rd. The existing McDonald’s was renovated and added onto creating a new American and seafood restaurant. Natural materials were incorporated into the exterior while the McDonald’s roofline was removed to create a new inviting appearance.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? I have been involved in connection with the acquisition of the MTA Bus Terminal in Jamaica, Queens. The transaction included several parties working in concert in order to consummate the closing.

What 3 skills do you consider the most important to be successful in your industry? 1. Flexibility: There are often multiple ways to close a deal. It’s important to stay flexible as the client or another party on the transaction may insist on going about the deal in a particular way. You need to be able to adjust your initial gameplan.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? I recently helped a friend structure his first agency deal, a collection of small apartment complexes in Connecticut that we initially tried to place under one loan.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? In 2022, I’ve managed environmental risks for $700 million in transactions, begun leading Offit Kurman’s Environmental and Sustainability Group, and been recognized on the 2022 Waste360 40 under 40, the 2022 NJBiz Law Power 50, and received other industry awards, but I’m most proud of my work supporting the circular economy.

What 3 skills do you consider the most important to be successful in your industry? 1. Communication, being detail oriented, and interpersonal skills. It is important to be transparent with your clients and communicate every hurdle and success that comes your way.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? For over 20 years I have practiced civil engineering, working at some of the most notable firms in the industry. I was given the opportunity to take on a leadership role, spearheading Phronesis Engineering.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? We specialize in hospitality and interior design of condominiums and luxury apartments. Our latest accomplishments have been Flora, a luxury exploration super yacht that navigates in the Galapagos and the Eddy, a waterfront luxury apartment complex in Harrison.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? This industry has long settled for mediocrity at best, so it’s been fulfilling to be part of a team that is improving the lives of our clients and our own company.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? I’m wrapping up my first completed/built commercial high-rise tower with Fogarty Finger.