Leading Women in Global Real Estate and Real Estate Management - 2024

REM TIMES lists out some of the leading women in the global real estate and management sectors

March 08, 2024 | Megha S Anthony | Global | Developers

In a world where economic empowerment and inclusion are paramount, the United Nations' theme for this year, ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’, resonates deeply alongside the campaign theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion’. Exceptional women are leading the charge in the real estate sector, breaking barriers and propelling growth. As the global real estate industry is projected to reach $613.6 trillion by 2024, women are integral drivers of this thriving market.

REM TIMES proudly presents a tribute to the Leading Women of Real Estate. These women, nominated by industry peers, represent a mosaic of talent and inspiration. From construction sites to boardrooms, from property management to proptech innovation, their impact reverberates throughout the industry.

This recognition is not a mere ranking but a celebration of contributions. These leaders serve diverse clientele with finesse and foresight, embodying empowerment and inclusivity. As we honor these trailblazers, let us acknowledge their role as torchbearers, lighting the way for future generations of women leaders.

Barbara Corcorans

Founder - Corcorans Group

Barbara Corcoran is a successful entrepreneur, having started her own real estate company with a small $1,000 loan, which after 25 years became a multi-million dollar firm, gaining her much credibility and popularity. Corcoran is the author of the best seller ‘Shark Tales: How I Turned $1,000 into a Billion Dollar Business!’ and the host of the top business podcast ‘Business Unusual with Barbara Corcoran’. A motivational speaker, she is also a judge on the well-known show 'Shark Tank'.

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Carola Riquelme

Manager - Cariqlo SAC Real Estate Administration

Carola Riquelme is a seasoned community manager hailing from the vibrant city of Arequipa, Peru. Having relocated to the bustling capital, Lima, during her formative years, Carola embarked on a journey in the real estate industry that has spanned over 25 years. With a diverse background in business management, Carola found her niche in real estate administration at the young age of 19 and has since dedicated herself to mastering the intricacies of building management. Her commitment to professionalism, coupled with her innate qualities of tolerance, empathy, and helpfulness, has earned her a reputation as a trusted leader in the Peruvian real estate sector.

In addition to her hands-on experience, Carola actively engages in international conferences, where she shares her wealth of experience and stays abreast of the latest trends in the industry. Her passion for continuous learning and her drive to implement innovative practices make her a valuable asset to both her company and the broader real estate community in Peru.

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Dawn Bauman

Chief Strategy Officer - Community Association Institute

Dawn M Bauman, CAI’s Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Director of the Foundation for Community Association Research, boasts over two decades of dedicated service to Community Associations Institute (CAI), a global organisation setting standards, best practices, principles for community association and community association. As the foremost global advocate for condominiums, homeowners associations, and other community housing models, Dawn's expertise is unparalleled in the field. She is a sought-after authority on community association housing, regularly featured in prestigious media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, U.S. News & World Report, and The New York Times.

A prolific speaker, Dawn has graced major conferences worldwide, sharing her insights in countries spanning Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Spain, and South Africa. Since the tragic Champlain Towers South collapse, she has spearheaded initiatives for safer condominiums, affecting policy changes nationally and globally.

Dawn's advocacy extends to legislative and regulatory arenas, earning her recognition from esteemed bodies like the American Society of Association Executives. With a rich history of executive roles and academic accomplishments, including a CAE designation and membership in the American Society of Association Executives, Dawn Bauman stands as a beacon of leadership and innovation in community housing advocacy and a champion of recognising the impact of women leaders.

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Dounia Fadi

Managing Director - eXp Realty Dubai

With a distinguished 19-year career in Dubai's real estate. Dounia Fadi, is an international speaker and a powerful global executive and a prominent figure in Dubai’s real estate landscape who was featured in Forbes for her success and excellent leadership skills. The managing director of one of the world's largest independent real estate brokerages, Dounia’s expertise extends beyond transactional success - she is celebrated for her problem-solving acumen and exceptional leadership.

Dounia possesses a unique ability to empower agents, fostering a collaborative and cooperative team environment. Emphasising the paramount importance of cultivating client relationships, she equips agents with comprehensive market knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and essential resources to adeptly address client needs. Her pursuit of avant-garde marketing strategies and leveraging advancing technology exemplify her commitment to staying ahead in the industry. Her hallmark is delivering unparalleled service, reflecting her steadfast commitment to providing exceptional client and agent experiences.

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Jennifer Todd

Founder and President - LMS General Contractors

Jennifer Todd, President of LMS General Contractors (demolition, disaster recovery, remediation), leads a woman-owned firm in South Florida. A law graduate from ASU, recognised for her achievements, including being the first black business owner on the cover of Construction Business Owner magazine, Jennifer is dedicated to empowering others. She founded A Greener Tomorrow, a non-profit promoting skilled trades in underserved communities, and is producing ‘Breaking Barriers’, a docuseries highlighting women in construction.

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Lidia López

Co-Founder - Fincas Cholo

Lidia López is the co-founder of Fincas Cholo, S.L., a prominent company specialising in community management within the province of Lugo, Spain, since its inception in 2010. With a robust client portfolio comprising 330 buildings and approximately 8,000 clients, Lidia plays a pivotal role in the company's success.

As the head of the accounting department, Lidia oversees financial operations and ensures meticulous accuracy in all transactions. Her dedication to efficiency is evident in her proactive approach to implementing new processes aimed at optimising office tasks and minimising errors. With a firm belief in the mantra, ‘doing things wrong means having to do them twice’, Lidia is committed to delivering excellence in every aspect of her work.

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Mai-Lan Trinh

Vice President Marketing - FIABCI - The International Real Estate Federation

Mai-Lan Trinh is a distinguished figure in the real estate industry, acclaimed for her unparalleled expertise and contributions. With over 40 years of experience, Mai-Lan's achievements have garnered international acclaim, including the prestigious FIABCI Medal from The International Real Estate Federation. As a former Board Director for FIABCI-USA and World Council of Development Institutes, she has left an indelible mark not only in real estate but also in global Vietnamese community development. Mai-Lan's leadership extends to various ventures, from real estate development to establishing Executive Global Realty & Investments and Total Products Services Petroleum LLC. She is also known for her dedication to mentoring agents in international transactions. Her passion for education and innovation led to the creation of initiatives like Las Americas Country Club and Convention Center. Mai-Lan's tireless efforts have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the United States Presidential Medal of Honor, exemplifying her remarkable contributions and lasting impact.

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Mara Cavazos

Organisational Manager - Expo Condominio

Mara Cavazos is a respected figure in the real estate industry, with a career spanning two decades as a seasoned organisational manager and residential professional advisor in Mexico City. Her expertise and dedication have earned her recognition worldwide, as she was prominently featured in the acclaimed book The Best Building Managers in the World.

Driven by her passion for fostering knowledge and sharing insights, Mara has served as an instructor, imparting her wealth of experience to aspiring professionals in the field. In addition to her instructional role, she is the visionary organiser behind Expo Condominio MX, a premier event hosted at the World Trade Center of Mexico City. Mara's commitment to education extends to the digital realm, where she hosts the popular vlog ‘Let's Talk about Condominiums’ on YouTube, providing valuable advice and insights to a global audience. Furthermore, she holds the prestigious position of chairing the 'Network of Professionals in Condominium Management', the first association of condominium managers in Mexico.

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Maria Morris

Founder & CEO - Maria Morris Estate

In the competitive realm of real estate, where gender equality has been a work in progress, Maria Morris stands out as a visionary leader challenging norms and redefining success. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Maria is the Founder & CEO of Maria Morris Real Estate, based in Dubai. Breaking barriers, she became the first expat woman to wholly own a real estate brokerage in Dubai, a remarkable achievement that exemplifies her commitment to empowering women in business. As a seasoned property professional with over 20 years experience in real estate, Maria Morris has a wealth of experience across the sector and specialises in prime residential real estate and residential development consultancy.

Maria is a renowned industry leader and has already had a significant impact on her profession, both in the Middle East and in key international territories from the UK to the US, Europe and Asia. She stands as an inspiring figure in the world of real estate, breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Her journey from a chance meeting with a house builder at the start of her career, to becoming a visionary entrepreneur, showcases resilience, innovation, and a commitment to empowering women in business. Maria Morris Real Estate's success is not only a testament to Maria's leadership but also a beacon for aspiring women entrepreneurs in the region and beyond.

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Maria Teresa Mendonça

President - CIPA

Maria Teresa Mendonça serves as the President of CIPA Administradora in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, boasting over four decades of unwavering dedication to the company. With a solid foundation in law complemented by an MBA in executive management, Maria Teresa's expertise is unmatched. Her extensive tenure includes influential roles within the Housing Union (Secovi Rio), where she served for over 30 years, culminating in administrative and financial vice-presidency. Maria Teresa holds esteemed certifications from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), highlighting her commitment to professional excellence. As a seasoned speaker at both national and international conferences, she continues to shape the trajectory of the Brazilian real estate sector with her visionary leadership and unparalleled industry insight.

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Mary Ann Tighe

CEO - CBRE

Mary Ann Tighe stands as an influential figure in commercial real estate, renowned for her indelible mark on New York City's skyline. Leading CBRE's New York Tri-State Region for over 20 years, she has not only set records but also shaped the very fabric of the city's landscape. With a career spanning over four decades, Mary Ann's innovative deals and transformative projects have earned her numerous accolades, including Crain's New York Business' most powerful woman title and multiple Deal of the Year Awards from REBNY. Yet, her influence extends beyond real estate, as she has also made significant contributions to the arts and public service. Mary Ann Tighe's legacy is one of unparalleled vision, leadership, and dedication to shaping the future of New York City.

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Mariela Castellanos

Director - Inmobiliaria Valenzuela

Mariela Castellanos is a dedicated professional with over two decades of experience in community management. Currently serving as Director at Inmobiliaria Valenzuela in Colombia, Mariela takes pride in her role and finds immense satisfaction in her work each day. Having devoted her career to community management, Mariela cherishes the opportunity to interact with diverse cultures and connect with people from around the globe. Her passion for fostering positive relationships within communities has been a driving force throughout her professional journey.

With a deep commitment to excellence and a genuine enthusiasm for her profession, Mariela continues to make meaningful contributions to the real estate industry, enriching the lives of those she serves and embracing the beauty of cultural diversity.

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Mery Guevara Márquez

CEO - MULTINVERSIONES

Mery Guevara Márquez is the CEO of MULTINVERSIONES, a leading company in the real estate market, with a history of 34 years. She led the company with several divisions and as an entrepreneurial and visionary woman, always seeing opportunities and overcoming all day-to-day obstacles.

She never misses an opportunity to contribute her knowledge and create committed work teams in the different units in a dynamic that allows them to design effective strategies to maximize resources and investment returns and exceed the expectations of our clients.

As an investment advisor and manager, she is committed to ensuring that her clients' investments are safe and profitable over time, regardless of investment size or property type. As a  leading, professional woman she is committed to challenging all the challenges that come with the day of being a best Real Estate Manager and advisor.

She believes that women play a great role in the economy of any country since they are versatile in acting as leaders for their homes and in their offices.

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Neema Kataria

Managing Partner - Hunt & Harris

Meet Neema Kataria, a trailblazing female leadership force in the UAE real estate scene with two decades of unmatched expertise. Renowned for her strategic insights and unparalleled market knowledge, Neema has been a key player in the Ras Al Khaimah market. Her journey began as a visionary agent, swiftly ascending into leadership roles in prestigious firms. Adept at navigating diverse landscapes, Neema has facilitated countless successful transactions, earning the trust of clients globally. Fuelled by a passion for excellence, she continues to redefine standards, seamlessly blending innovation and tradition. With Neema, experience isn't just measured in years; it's a testament to a legacy of unparalleled success.

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Pilar Camarero

General Director - Ainda Invest

Pilar Camarero is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience directing Ainda Invest, a prominent administration company in the Dominican Republic. With a diverse clientele of over 4,000, Pilar manages various real estate assets, including shopping centres and condominiums. Her expertise extends globally, having worked with renowned investment funds and developers like Fisher Island and London International Bank.

Pilar's contributions also extend to humanitarian efforts as a collaborator of UN-Habitat. She holds a bachelor's degree in Real Estate Studies and a master's in Resort Management, along with certifications in quality management. Her dedication to excellence and breadth of experience make her a valuable asset to the real estate industry.

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Salma Aboul-Ela

Managing Director - Lite Development

A real estate development professional with executive experience working for leading developers in the UAE. She is a regular public speaker, addressing topics ranging from sustainability and technological advancements to placemaking and cultural infrastructure within the development sector.

Presently, Salma serves as the Managing Director of LITE Development, a boutique development office overseeing innovative development initiatives for the Abu Dhabi government. She ascended to this role following the successful completion of her prior position within the same organisation, where she held the role of Executive Director of Development & Design.
Prior to LITE, Salma held the position of VP of Development at ALDAR Properties, where her responsibilities included strategic development initiatives for new location expansions. Before expanding to Abu Dhabi, Salma spent a significant period of her career at EMAAR Properties, where she held positions in both Emaar Hospitality Group & Emaar Development. Salma has led a portfolio of multi-billion large-scale mixed use developments in Downtown Dubai.

With Masters in Urban Planning and experience in different real estate asset classes across multiple geographies. Salma has specialised knowledge in hospitality, residential and mixed use real estate development.

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Sandy Denton

Past Chair CAMICB - Community Associations Institute

Sandra K Denton is a dynamic figure in the realm of community association management, who has served as the Past Chair of CAMICB. With over three decades of experience in the field, Sandra's journey is marked by a passion for fostering vibrant communities and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Hailing from Sienna Associations in Missouri City, Texas, where she holds the position of General Manager, Sandra's foray into community management was serendipitous. Originally trained in Shopping Center & Building Management, Sandra stumbled into the world of Community Management by chance. However, she quickly discovered a deep resonance with the profession, finding fulfilment in the intricate dynamics of working with building owners and residents.

Throughout her career, Sandra has held pivotal roles in various associations, including serving as the Executive Director for First Colony Community Association in Sugar Land, Texas. She has also been actively involved in industry organisations such as CAI (Community Associations Institute) and the Foundation for Community Association Research (FCAR), where she has left an indelible mark on the sector.

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Shari Neissani

Vice President of Development - PTM Partners

Shari Neissani is the Vice President of Development at PTM Partners, overseeing pre-development projects to ensure alignment with the company's growth objectives. With extensive experience in commercial real estate, Shari's leadership has been instrumental in PTM's investments in Miami's evolving market. She recently closed a $150 million opportunity zone fund, focusing on accessible housing solutions and community impact nationwide. Shari's portfolio also includes diverse projects like Watermark in Washington DC and Soleste Grand Central in Downtown Miami. With a background in international relations and a commitment to excellence, Shari is driving PTM's expansion in South Florida and beyond.

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Teyra A. Ehlers Bilgray

Founder and Owner - ADMINISTRA PTY, S.A

Teyra A Ehlers Bilgray is the owner of ADMINISTRA PTY, S.A., a company that offers property management and consultancy services to homeowners’ associations in Panama and co-owner of REUNETE, a company that offers virtual meeting services. Lawyer, mediator, real estate broker and founding member and President of the Horizontal Property Managers Association of Panama (APADEAP).

Teyra has a teaching degree and an executive master’s degree in business administration and has completed several training programs on virtual platforms at international universities such as Harvard and Cornell.

She has been a speaker at several national and international events, including Dubai, Chile and Colombia.  She is a member of the Community Association Institute (CAI) in the US and has the CMCA (Certified Manager of Community Associations) credential as well as the AMS (Association Manager Specialist) certification, being the first professional to receive both certifications in Panama and Central America.

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Veronica Warmington

Head of Facilities Management - EY Africa

Veronica is the Head Of Facilities Management for EY Africa with more than 15 years of experience in operations. She graduated from the University of Johannesburg and Africa Facilities Management and is an expert in Budgeting, Strategy Development, and Implementation.

She is in charge of a wide-ranging portfolio comprising 11 locations in South Africa spanning over 30 000 square metres of real estate where she is responsible for the development and implementation of the Facilities Management Strategy. Her everyday role involves implementing and driving activities and processes which support enhanced workplace experience, efficiency, compliance, sustainability and continuity in the workplace.

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Veronica Ojeda Brit

Operations Head - MEGAFINCAS ALICANTE

Veronica Ojeda Brit, originally from Uruguay but now proudly Spanish by choice, is a seasoned lawyer with a passion for real estate management. Currently serving at MEGAFINCAS ALICANTE, Veronica thrives in her role by leveraging her exceptional organisational skills, multitasking abilities, curiosity, and emotional intelligence. She recognizes the significance of empathy in her profession, where understanding and connecting with clients is paramount.

Throughout her career, Veronica has not only honed her expertise but also shared her knowledge internationally, having the opportunity to learn and contribute to the real estate profession across five continents. Her dedication to her craft and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to MEGAFINCAS ALICANTE and the real estate industry on the whole.

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Zeina Khoury

President - Zed Capital Real Estate

Zeina Khoury is the President and Chief Growth Officer of Zed Capital Real Estate, a specialist luxury property sales and management leader in the UAE. She is also the founder of the empowering fashion brand, I Am The Company, a brand with a promise to give back to the education of young ladies in the region.

With over 20 years of experience in key senior management roles, Zeina brings a wealth of industry know-how combined with a unique passion to turn around multimillion dollar projects and create real estate products that stand out in the UAE property market. She was one of the industry pioneers in incorporating digital assets in the business management and sales processes to generate more efficiencies and higher productivity levels.

She started her career as part of the business development team at the Palazzo Versace Dubai and D1 Tower where she successfully contributed to the planning, training of the executive team and oversight of the sales operations that led to over AED3 billion in deal value. Outside of work, Zeina is a business leader and influencer with extensive professional networks in the Middle East. She is currently one of the stars on Netflix’s hit show, Dubai Bling.

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