While she was first drawn to the field of architecture, Lauren Richter – a recipient of NAIOP’s 2015 Developing Leaders Award – realized that a career in commercial real estate would best fit her goals and interests, enabling her to blend her passion for both the design and development aspects of the built environment. She earned a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, and also holds a Master of Real Estate Development and Finance from New York University.
In her current role, Richter manages the acquisitions and asset management for the New York-based private real estate firm Tribeca Associates. Her responsibilities include identifying and analyzing acquisition opportunities, negotiating transactions and joint venture structures, and execution of current investments. Richter previously worked for The Rockefeller Group as an assistant project manager.
She has been a NAIOP member for 3 years. Active in both NAIOP New York City and NAIOP New Jersey, she brought the chapters together for the first NYC and NJ Developing Leaders Community Action Day, where volunteers built a house for disabled veterans through Habitat for Humanity. She has served as co-chair of the Developing Leaders for NAIOP New York City and as community action committee co-chair for NAIOP New Jersey. We caught up with this enterprising industry leader to learn more about what motivates her success.
NAIOP: What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?
Richter: In the development field, the ultimate satisfaction is to see a new building come to fruition. With numerous years going into a single development before construction even begins, I like to see the smaller undertakings, such as finishing negotiating a contract or obtaining site plan approvals, as rewarding aspects of the job.
NAIOP: What advice would you offer to other young professionals in commercial real estate?
Richter: Create more opportunities than you find. Whether you are looking for a job in development, trying to get complicated approvals, or searching for an equity partner, there is always a solution that may not seem apparent at first glance.
NAIOP: Who has been an inspiring or influential figure in your life?
Richter: My parents. My mom has demonstrated how hard-work and determination is rewarded in your career and personal life. My dad is the most outgoing and optimistic person I know. He has taught me how to strike up a conversation with anyone and turn every bad situation into something meaningful.
This is part of a series of profiles of NAIOP’s 2015 Developing Leaders Award recipients, who have distinguished themselves through exceptional commitment and contributions to the industry. This prestigious award was presented at NAIOP’s Commercial Real Estate Conference 2015 in Toronto. Read about all of the honorees in the Winter 2015/2016 issue of Development Magazine.
The recipients of the 2016 Developing Leaders Award will be recognized at Commercial Real Estate Conference 2016 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Watch this two-minute video to learn more about NAIOP’s Developing Leaders program.
