Building Miami’s Future: Trends and Innovations in Construction

(9:15 AM - 10:00 AM)

• 

  ​Malcolm Butters

  Malcolm has been active in South Florida Real Estate for over 25 years. He has a Masters Degree in Real Estate from Florida International University, and has previously worked in the real estate investment division of Travelers Insurance.

  Butters​

  Principal

  ​Malcolm Butters

  Principal

  Butters​

• 

  Daniel Lebensohn

  Founder, Co-CEO

  BH3 Management

• 

  Adam Adler

  Adam Adler is a Principal at Global City and has over 17 years of experience in finance and real estate development. Prior to joining Global City, he was the Chief Investment Officer and Director of Suburban development at Terra, one of South Florida’s preeminent real estate development companies, where he mainly focused on master planned communities and commercial real estate development. During his tenure at Terra, he was involved in all facets of real estate development, including property acquisitions, financial structuring, lender and investor relations, lease negotiations, sales and marketing, design and construction, asset management and property divestitures. In addition to real estate development, Mr. Adler has a background in investment banking. Prior to joining Terra, he served as a vice president in structured finance at Bayview Financial, where he played a pivotal role in securitizing over $16 billion of bonds backed by residential loans and small balance commercial loans. Prior to this role, Mr. Adler was an analyst at Burger King, where he worked on a number of the company’s franchise restructurings. Mr. Adler holds a master’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in business administration from Northeastern University and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Cornell University. He was awarded 40 under 40 by South Florida Business Journal in 2017.

  Global City

  Principal

  Adam Adler

  Principal

  Global City

• 

  Ryan Loftus

  With more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, Ryan Loftus serves as the Executive Vice President of Business Development at Hotwire Communications. His primary area of expertise lies in multi-family tenant environments. Ryan is known for his passion, success, and performance-driven approach, and boasts a proven track record of establishing enduring strategic partnerships with Fortune 100 and 500 companies. Throughout his career, Ryan has played a pivotal role in the launch and implementation of various cutting-edge technologies, including high-speed internet, digital and high-definition video, IPTV, DVR, extensive fiber deployments, small cell, and home security.

  Hotwire Communications

  EVP, Business Development – Multi-Tenant Environments

  Ryan Loftus

  EVP, Business Development – Multi-Tenant Environments

  Hotwire Communications

• Moderator

  Shawn Oden

  Managing Director

  BMO Commercial Bank

Navigating the Financial Landscape: Opportunities and Risks

(10:05 AM - 10:50 AM)

• 

  Asi Cymbal

  Asi Cymbal is the Chairman of Cymbal DLT Companies. Mr. Cymbal has over 30 years of experience in real estate development, construction, finance, and law. He is driven by his passion for great architecture and design, his focus on transforming communities, and his commitment to creating great wealth for his investors. He has been fortunate to work with the world’s best architects and designers (Philippe Starck, Bjarke Ingels, Enrique Norten, Jo Palma, Arquitectonica) as a first mover in neighborhoods at a critical time in their transition (the Financial District in Manhattan, Tribeca, SOHO, the Miami Design District, Wynwood, Downtown Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Miami Gardens). Mr. Cymbal is grateful to his investors and proud of the fact that he has rewarded them with unmatched returns.  Mr. Cymbal raised his first fund in 2010.  That $3 million fund is now worth over $180 million.  He is focused on increasing that to $700 million by 2026. After experimenting with retirement in 2014, he came back to create a second fund during the 2020 Pandemic.  He turned that $16 million fund into $90 million in 20 months. Mr. Cymbal is currently raising a $100 million evergreen fund to be deployed into the $2 billion Cymbal DLT pipeline. Mr. Cymbal also has significant food and beverage experience. He has co-created and owned over half a dozen of the hottest restaurants and clubs in Miami, including Sra. Martinez (with celebrity chef and James Beard award-winner, Michelle Bernstein), Bardot, and gigi. Mr. Cymbal has been named by the South Florida Business Journal as a Heavy Hitter in Construction and Real Estate Development, a Top 100 Power Leader, and as one of 2013’s People to Watch. He has also appeared on the front page of the Wall Street Journal. Mr. Cymbal is the Vice Chair and board member of Florida International University’s College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts - Miami Beach Urban Studios. He is also a board member of Wynwood Norte, the organization that is spearheading the revitalization of north Wynwood. Mr. Cymbal was a past board member of Business for the Arts of Broward. Mr. Cymbal is a graduate of Vassar College and the UCLA School of Law. He is an experienced real estate and business attorney licensed to practice law in New York, New Jersey, and Washington D.C., and is a licensed general contractor in Florida.

  Cymbal DLT

  Chairman

  Asi Cymbal

  Chairman

  Cymbal DLT

• 

  Rafael Aregger

  Head of Investments US

  Empira Group

• 

  Ignacio Diaz

  Co-Owner

  Group P6

• 

  Cory Yeffet

  Principal

  Integra Investments

• 

  Jeremy Lash

  Jeremy Lash joined Kawa in 2015 and serves as a Director on the Real Estate Investments Team. He is responsible for originating, structuring, and closing commercial real estate transactions as well as managing a servicing program for the same. Jeremy has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

  Kawa

  Director on the Real Estate Investments Team

  Jeremy Lash

  Director on the Real Estate Investments Team

  Kawa

• 

  Steven Sperandio

  Executive Managing Director

  Cushman & Wakefield

• 

  Roberto Zaldivar

  Robert Zaldivar is an accomplished tax professional and Manager at Citrin Cooperman. Based in Miami, he has nearly 20 years of experience with an emphasis on business planning, consulting, accounting & bookkeeping, QuickBooks consulting & assistance and tax compliance. In his current role, he supports a wide array of clientele, with an emphasis on the real estate sector, specifically developers and investors in the commercial and mixed-use multifamily space. This represents 21% of the Citrin Cooperman South Florida practice, accounting for approximately $3 million in work. Robert also works with clients across healthcare, law, restaurants & hospitality, and technology with accounting, tax and consulting services. His background in family office work, makes him attune to the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals providing services in planning and coordinating tax strategy, general ledger accounting, analysis and process implementation to meet their needs. In addition, he works with medium-sized and small businesses to provide tax work, general accounting and bill payment services. Throughout his expansive career, Robert has had the opportunity to work at a variety of large accounting firms over the years. He’s previously held positions at GEMRT, Kaufman Rossin and Alvarez & Marsal. He earned his bachelor’s in finance and marketing and holds a master’s in accounting from Florida International University. When he’s not working, Robert is enjoying one of his three passions in life. He loves to travel, is an avid foodie and a die-hard Miami Hurricane football fan. A true family man, he enjoys his passions alongside his family, wife, Cristy and two sons, Felipe and Mateo.

  Citrin Cooperman

  Tax Manager

  Moderator

  Roberto Zaldivar

  Tax Manager

  Citrin Cooperman

Crafting the Skyline: Trends in Architecture, Design, and Development

(11:00 AM - 11:45 AM)

• 

  Fernando de Nuñez y Lugones

  CEO

  Vertical Developments

• 

  Camilo Miguel

  Camilo Miguel founded Mast Capital in 2006 and serves as its Chief Executive Officer, focused on investment strategy and risk management. He has an extensive real estate, financial and political network, with expertise in investment structuring, complex debt and equity products, execution and development. Mr. Miguel has built the firm into a leading investor and developer of high-end residential, hospitality, office and retail projects, with a particular focus in high barriers-to-entry markets. Prior to founding Mast, he founded and served as President of Vertica Group, a land investment and repositioning company, where he oversaw all aspects of the businesses, including acquisitions, entitlements, operations and asset management. Before this, he co-founded Clear Title Group, a boutique real estate title insurance company focused on offering closing services to luxury condominium and home developers, buyers and sellers, which quickly grew into a distinguished market leader in its segment. Mr. Miguel graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management.

  Mast Capital

  CEO

  Camilo Miguel

  CEO

  Mast Capital

• 

  Romina Laemmel

  With 13 years of experience at KPF, Romina has spearheaded a multitude of projects driven by residential, hospitality, mixed-use, and office programming throughout the United States, Canada, and China. Her expertise in regulatory planning and contextual design ensures that each building performs at the highest quality and benefits its surrounding environment. Recognized for her collaborative approach, Romina engages closely with clients and consultants to shepherd projects from conceptualization through construction administration to fruition. Her belief that architecture and the built environment can enrich the users’ quality of life is evident in her attention to detail, ensuring that each project delivers both functional and transformative spaces. Romina’s mission is evident through her work on the two-tower One Island Drive in Miami, home to the Residences at Mandarin Oriental. Collaborating closely with the client and the consultants, Romina ensures coordination between every aspect of the project to create luxuriously crafted spaces for residents. Located on a prominent yet sensitive site, One Island Drive integrates the public realm and the resort experience, while its colors and materiality differentiate the development from its all-white Miami neighbors. Romina has embraced architectural innovation and green building practices throughout her career, optimizing the user experience in each of her projects. Her conviction in the impactful nature of architecture is reflected in her design process, enabling buildings and their surrounding communities to stand the test of time.

  KPF

  Senior Associate Principal

  Romina Laemmel

  Senior Associate Principal

  KPF

• 

  Andrew Burnett

  CEO

  RSP Architects

• 

  Mario Garcia-Serra

  Mario Garcia-Serra serves on the firm's board of directors. He is a member of the firm’s Environmental & Land Use practice group and focuses his practice on local government law, particularly land use and zoning. Mario represents major developers before local government boards and regulatory agencies. He has wide ranging experience with the governments of Miami-Dade County and with nearly all of the municipalities within Miami-Dade County, including the cities of Miami, Coral Gables, Miami Beach, North Miami and Aventura, as well as regional agencies such as the South Florida Regional Planning Council and the South Florida Water Management District. Mario has been involved in obtaining the necessary development approvals for major high rise residential condominium and rental projects, commercial and institutional buildings, single family residential developments and public/private projects. Mario is involved in local politics and has served as a campaign fundraiser for various local and state elected officials.

  Gunster

  Board of Directors, Shareholder

  Moderator

  Mario Garcia-Serra

  Board of Directors, Shareholder

  Gunster

The Dynamics of Demand: Understanding Economic and Demographic Shifts

(11:50 AM - 12:35 PM)

• 

  Tere Blanca

  Tere Blanca is the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Blanca Commercial Real Estate, Inc., the leading independently owned commercial real estate services firm in Florida. She founded the firm in 2009 after identifying a need in the marketplace for a local advisory and brokerage firm built on a culture of giving clients a highly personalized approach to service. With Tere’s vision, progressive leadership and foundation of passion, care and commitment to excellence, teams are purpose built and strategies are customized to fit each clients’ diverse needs allowing the firm to achieve successful outcomes and setting new market standards. Blanca Commercial Real Estate now has a dynamic team of more than 45 top professionals that embrace a culture of collaboration and caring for each other, the firm’s clients and the community. It is recognized as one of the top commercial real estate brokerage services companies in Florida, ranked by the South Florida Business Journal as one of the top ten firms in South Florida, maintaining more than 32% market share of all office lease transactions executed in Class A and B office space in Miami; the firm’s home base. Expanding across South Florida, the firm now has 3 offices across the region and has grown its services to include property management, tenant engagement services and development consulting. Throughout her 35-year career, Tere has participated and led many significant lease transactions and new development projects from land acquisition to the master planning, design, construction, marketing, lease-up, and sale of office and mixed-use assets. Clients of the firm include Nuveen Real Estate, Allianz, Hines, Agave Holdings, Lincoln Property Company, Blackstone, TA Realty, Federal Realty, Shorenstein, Stiles, Related Group, AIMCO, and the law firms of Akerman LLP, and White & Case, LLP; Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Miami Herald Media Company; WeWork; Coastal Construction, Quirch Foods, Inc.; Insigneo; Inktel, DASI, Neutralogistics, Mexican Consulate and the University of Miami, to name a few. Prior to launching Blanca Commercial Real Estate, Tere served for five years as Senior Managing Director for Cushman & Wakefield of Florida, Inc., where she led the firm’s South Florida region, achieving significant revenue growth and increased profitability. Tere also held the position of senior vice president at Codina Realty Services, Inc. ONCOR International where she was consistently among the top producers during her 14-year tenure. Tere holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in international marketing and finance and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Miami and is fluent in English and Spanish. She is the proud mother of two daughters and resides with her husband in Coral Gables. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: ● Chair of Urban Land Institute (ULI) for Southeast Florida and the Caribbean ● Member of the Board of Directors of BankUnited ● Member of the Board of Trustees of Miami Dade College ● Member of the University of Miami’s Herbert School of Business Real Estate Advisory Council ● Executive Committee Member of Urban Land Institute (ULI) ● Past chair and current Member of the Board of Miami-Dade County’s official economic development agency, The Beacon Council ● Member of the Board of Governors of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce ● Member of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Gold ● Associate member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Chapter ● Member of Women Corporate Directors (WCD) ● Past member of the Board of Directors of The Miami Foundation ● Past chair of the Board of Directors of City Year Miami AWARDS & RECOGNITION: ● “Top 100 Power Leaders”, South Florida Business Journal ● “Ultimate CEO”, South Florida Business Journal ● “Most Influential Business Women”, South Florida Business Journal ● “Power Leader of the Year”, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce ● “Office Broker of the Year”, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce ● “Women of Influence: Legends”, Real Estate Forum ● “Women of Influence”, Real Estate Forum ● “Top 25 Women in Real Estate”, Commercial Property Executive ● “Top Dealmakers of the Year”, Daily Business Review ● “Successful Hispanic Women of the Year”, Camacol ● “Philanthropist of the Year”, City Year Miami ● “Community Leader of the Year”, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

  Blanca Commercial Real Estate

  CEO

  Tere Blanca

  CEO

  Blanca Commercial Real Estate

• 

  Martin Melo

  Martin Melo is Principal of the Melo Group, a family-owned and operated real estate development firm based in Miami, Florida. The firm, founded in Argentina in 1948, specializes in the construction and delivery of high-quality residential buildings. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) by trade, Martin ensures that the company’s finances are in order and is responsible for negotiating with lenders.

  Melo Group

  Principal

  Martin Melo

  Principal

  Melo Group

• 

  Tim Hart

  Tim has over 25 years of experience in the property tax field, focusing on all types of commercial, industrial and multi-family properties. Prior to PTAG, Tim worked for a national property tax consulting firm and also worked with a local County Property Appraiser in Florida.

  Property Tax Alliance Group

  Partner

  Tim Hart

  Partner

  Property Tax Alliance Group

• 

  Patrick Senne

  Mr. Senne is a 6 th generation native Floridian with 35 years of experience performing a full spectrum of survey, geospatial, and subsurface utility mapping services throughout Florida and the Southeast. In his current role with Colliers Engineering & Design, Patrick is responsible for developing, coordinating, and executing business development strategies for multiple firm disciplines as they continue their growth and expansion in the governmental services and private sector markets in the great State of Florida. As a Florida licensed Professional Surveyor and Mapper, Mr. Senne has overseen a wide range of projects supporting land development (commercial and residential); infrastructure (transportation, rail and transit, bridges, water and wastewater, and stormwater drainage); telecommunications and fiber optic network expansion; GIS/asset inventory and condition assessment; parks, trails, and recreation facilities; and large-scale conservation lands and wildlife corridor easement acquisitions.

  Colliers Engineering & Design

  Director

  Patrick Senne

  Director

  Colliers Engineering & Design

• 

  Barry Goldstein

  Barry Goldstein is an accomplished global executive with more than 30 years of strategic leadership experience, including over 25 years in the hospitality sector. Widely recognized as a transformative leader, Barry excels at driving revenue growth and delivering measurable results by aligning sales, marketing, digital, and technology functions. His leadership is defined by a proven ability to navigate complex organizational change, foster influential relationships, elevate customer experiences, and consistently achieve strong financial outcomes. Throughout his career, Barry has led organizational turnarounds by establishing clear strategic direction, enhancing operational performance, and leveraging innovation and technology to fuel sustainable growth. His forward-looking mindset has enabled companies to outperform in highly competitive and rapidly evolving markets. Most recently, Barry served as CEO of Arch Amenities Group, a premier provider of amenity management and consulting services for residential and commercial real estate, hotels, resorts, and private clubs. He has also held senior executive positions at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Starwood Hotels, Cisco Systems, and Panasonic. Barry holds a Bachelor of Science from Columbia University and is a graduate of the Executive Management Program at Harvard Business School.

  Tillman Digital Cities

  CEO

  Barry Goldstein

  CEO

  Tillman Digital Cities

• 

  Zvi Rafilovich

  As a partner in CohnReznick’s International Tax practice, Zvi Rafilovich advises small to large entities and high net worth individuals on various tax compliance issues. His services include tax planning and minimization, federal/state/local tax filings, tax incentives and credits, pre-immigration tax planning, estates/gift and fiduciary tax returns, non-resident tax compliance, FIRPTA issues, and US and States' research and experimentation tax credit. Zvi has managed large-scale R&E tax credit projects for one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the US and oversaw domestic and international tax compliance. He also worked for a large regional CPA firm in Florida.

  CohnReznick

  Partner

  Moderator

  Zvi Rafilovich

  Partner

  CohnReznick

Transforming the Landscape: Projects Under Development

(1:45 PM - 2:30 PM)

• 

  Christine Martinez de Castro

  Chief Marketing & Sales Officer

  CMC Group

• 

  Alicia Cervera Lamadrid

  Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, often hailed as one of Miami's most influential power players, stands as an indomitable force in the vibrant South Florida real estate industry. Her unwavering commitment to excellence with integrity, profound expertise, diverse roles, innate business acumen, and genuine people-first approach has cemented her position among the industry's elite. Cervera Lamadrid transcends borders, making her a sought-after figure in the media and esteemed panels, locally, nationally, and abroad. Throughout her renowned career, Alicia Cervera Lamadrid has exhibited an exceptional ability to navigate the highs and lows of the economy while maintaining the company's profitability. Alicia embarked on her remarkable journey into real estate in the early 1980s, partnering with her visionary mother, Alicia Cervera Sr., founder of Cervera Real Estate, and her sister, Veronica Cervera Goeseke. From the outset, Alicia applied her leadership style characterized by hands-on guidance, supporting developer clients while nurturing associates. The company immediately felt the impact of her exceptional leadership skills and innate understanding of the industry's intricacies as she led the sales team through the swift and profitable sellout of Brickell Key 2. Alicia continued her journey with Cervera Real Estate and became renowned for her trailblazing role in real estate development sales, collaborating with developers on iconic projects. While maintaining her influence with Cervera Real Estate, in 2000, Jorge Perez of Related Group invited her to partner in forming Related Cervera Realty Services (RCRS). Over a decade, under Alicia's leadership as President, RCRS orchestrated the sale of over 14,600 units, representing $6.8 billion in transactions. Her resilience and unwavering resolve were particularly evident during the 2008 recession when she successfully sold the remaining standing inventory represented by RCRS.In 2011, Alicia returned full-time as principal to Cervera Real Estate, and she assumed the role of Managing Partner at Cervera Real Estate and orchestrated a monumental expansion that doubled the company's size. The Cervera name has graced over 125+ luxury high-rise condominiums throughout South Florida, facilitating over $20 billion in sales. Alicia Cervera Lamadrid oversees $4.5 Billion in real estate sales, encompassing pre-construction and general real estate. She is at the forefront of iconic luxury new development projects such as Aston Martin Residences Miami; The Residences at 1428 Brickell; DOMUS Brickell Park and Brickell Center; LOFTY Brickell; Viceroy Residences Aventura; Origin Residences by Artefacto; Cassia, The Residences Coral Gables; The Avenue Coral Gables; The Ryder Residences; 14 Roc; 72 Park Miami Beach; and Palma. True to her mentor and mother's legacy of ownership involvement, Aicia is hands-on throughout the sales cycle of all the projects she manages.

  Cervera Real Estate

  Managing Partner, Principal

  Alicia Cervera Lamadrid

  Managing Partner, Principal

  Cervera Real Estate

• 

  Charles Russo

  Charles Russo is a Senior Director and Asset Management Lead (East Region) at Nuveen, a leading investment management firm. Charles oversees the asset management of the office sector on the east coast. With over a decade of experience in real estate investment, Charles plays a vital role in overseeing the management of Nuveen's extensive asset portfolio in the Eastern United States. Prior to joining Nuveen, he served as a U.S. Real Estate Director at Carlyle, where he gained valuable expertise in complex financial analysis and strategic portfolio optimization.

  Nuveen Real Estate

  Asset Management Lead, Workplace, East Region

  Charles Russo

  Asset Management Lead, Workplace, East Region

  Nuveen Real Estate

• 

  Monica Vazquez

  Monica Vazquez is Country Manager and Executive Vice President of ABANCA USA, leading the operations of one of Spain's leading financial institutions in the USA. Since assuming the position in January 2019, with the opening of the bank, Monica has played a key role in establishing and leading the bank's operations in the country. Her responsibilities include providing strategic leadership, managing day-to-day operations and ensuring the overall success of the business. In addition to her role at ABANCA USA, Monica holds several prestigious positions including President of the Spain-U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Co-Chair of the Florida International Bank Association (FIBA), Founding member of the Women Executive Hispanic Association (WhE), Member of the Council of Residents Abroad (CRE, a body under the Consulate of Spain) and and Member of the Board of the Spanish Cultural Center in Miami (CCE). Recognized for her outstanding leadership, Monica has received awards such as being named one of the "TOP 100 Women Leaders in Spain" and one of the "TOP 10 International Businesswomen" in 2023. Her commitment to excellence has also been recognized with awards such as "Company of the Year" in 2019, and "Great Place to Work" in 2023 and 2024. Monica is not only a business expert, but also a recognized authority on Corporate Governance, ESG, Cybersecurity, Risk Management and Private Banking in both the European and US markets. Her focus on sustainable business growth and profitability has shaped a successful business model and she actively contributes to the achievement of business objectives through strategic planning, change management and transformation. With a background in law and a master's degree in business, Monica has extensive experience and knowledge of European and US banking regulations. She has honed her skills through certification programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Wharton and IE. Monica is also a valued member of the Harvard Business Research Advisory Board. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Monica is deeply involved in community service and volunteerism, which reflects her commitment to environmental and social causes and demonstrates her passion for making a positive impact beyond the boardroom.

  ABANCA USA

  EVP General Manager

  Monica Vazquez

  EVP General Manager

  ABANCA USA

• 

  Ryan Bailine

  Ryan Bailine’s practice focuses on the development and financing of complex real estate projects, including real estate, land use, and regulatory aspects. Noted for his responsiveness to his clients’ needs, attention to detail, and his project development acumen, Ryan represents some of the most active and prolific developers in North America, advising on residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use projects, including Transit Oriented Developments (TOD), opportunity zone elements, affordable and workforce housing issues, and public-private endeavors. Ryan routinely works with local, regional and national regulatory agencies to facilitate the permitting, construction, development, and financing of real estate projects, including negotiating long-term ground leases, development agreements, development rights transfers, financing documents, joint venture agreements, and qualified opportunity zone structures, along with infrastructure and utility components. Regarding real estate finance, Ryan routinely negotiates and secures debt and equity placement, as well as tax credit based financing, ranging from low income housing, new market and historic tax credits, to other government sponsored programs such as SAIL and HOPE VI funding sources. Clients and real estate professionals regularly turn to Ryan for advice on opportunity zone real estate development and financing issues. He routinely advises developers, property owners, and qualified opportunity funds on regulatory structuring issues related to opportunity zone issues. Ryan has lectured a presented to clients and real estate consultants and professionals across the country on financing and qualified opportunity zone structuring and compliance issues.

  Greenberg & Traurig

  Shareholder

  Moderator

  Ryan Bailine

  Shareholder

  Greenberg & Traurig

Creative Financing Structures in the Current Economy

(2:35 PM - 3:15 PM)

• 

  Eddie Diaz

  Eddie Diaz is Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Lending for Ocean Bank. Diaz started his banking career at Ocean Bank in 1999 as a credit analyst and spent several years in the Special Assets and Commercial Lending departments. He rejoined the bank in 2014 as a senior corporate banking officer. He was named regional manager of Branch Administration in 2016, promoted to Head of Corporate Lending in 2019 and executive vice president in 2020.A resident of Miami, Diaz has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Finance from Florida International University. He is a graduate of Christopher Columbus High School. Eddie currently sits on the FIU Presidents council and Jackson Health Foundation Board.

  Ocean Bank

  EVP, Head of Corporate Lending

  Eddie Diaz

  EVP, Head of Corporate Lending

  Ocean Bank

• 

  Juan Esterripa

  Juan Esterripa serves as Amerant Bank’s SEVP, Head of Commercial Banking since April 2023. He is a seasoned banking professional with significant experience in corporate and commercial banking. In his role, Esterripa oversees multiple business sectors, including commercial banking, commercial real estate, syndications, specialty finance, and treasury management, while promoting business development across the bank and driving profitable growth. Before Amerant, Esterripa served as EVP, Wholesale Banking Executive at City National Bank - Florida since 2016. From 2013 to 2017, he was SVP, Corporate & Commercial Banking Manager at BankUnited, N.A., managing its largest book of business. He served as Executive Vice President at Stonegate Bank from 2012 to 2013 and as Senior Vice President at Capital Bank since 2010 prior to that. From 2009 to 2010, Esterripa was SVP, Chief Lending Officer at Pacific National Bank, and from 2006 to 2009, he served as SVP, Head of Middle Market Division at Mercantil Commercebank, N.A. Esterripa is a graduate of the Harvard Business School executive management program. His expertise and industry knowledge has brought significant value to the organizations with which he has worked, all while his insights and strategic vision have helped drive growth and profitability. He currently serves on the board of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami.

  Amerant Bank

  Head of Commercial Banking

  Juan Esterripa

  Head of Commercial Banking

  Amerant Bank

• 

  Albert Arisso

  Albert Arisso, president - chief operating officer, has more than 28 years of experience in finance and the construction and development industry. He is co-founder and man aging partner of Vertix Group LLC. He is also managing director and co-head of origination and business development at Altamar Financial Group, a commercial bridge lender affiliated with Vertix. Previously, Albert was managing partner at HAS Capital Direct, commercial loan brokers. He also served as vice president of Gimrock Construction, Inc. overseeing domestic and international project development. Albert was president and CEO at Pointe Developers, Inc. and Affiliates. Additionally, Albert was senior vice president, head of corporate lending at Ocean Bank where he held several positions throughout his 12-year tenure. While at Ocean, he managed a commercial real estate portfolio valued at $1.5 billion securing $500 million in commercial and industrial loans. Albert earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Rutgers University and is a graduate of the University of Colorado Boulder’s Graduate School of Banking.

  Vertix Group

  President of Chief Operating Officer

  Albert Arisso

  President of Chief Operating Officer

  Vertix Group

• 

  Jose Cueto

  Jose E. Cueto is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Grove Bank & Trust. He is a seasoned banking professional with more than three decades of experience in lending, acquisitions, asset management and people management. As CEO of Grove Bank & Trust, he leads a group of highly skilled and motivated professionals to strategically grow the bank’s capabilities whilst also building and expanding the organization’s people resources. Jose began his banking career 36 years ago at Republic National Bank of Miami. After that, he worked at institutions such as First Union, Capital Bank, Banco Real, Bank Leumi, and prior to his current position, the International Finance Bank. He also has several accolades from local organizations such as Lender of the Year in 2013 by the South Florida Business Journal, Ponce de Leon Excellence Award in 2014 by the US-Spain Chamber of Commerce, the Horizon Award in 2016 by the Florida Bankers Association, and the Hispanic Heritage Award in 2018 from the South Florida Council Boy Scouts of America. In 2021, he was recognized as one of South Florida Business Journal’s Power Leaders for the third consecutive year. Jose is the immediate past Chairman for the Florida Bankers Association, is a member of the Orange Bowl Committee, and is on the Miami Branch board of directors for the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. He is also the President of the Center for Financial Training board of directors. and is on the board of directors for the Cuban Banking Study Group and SebastianStrong Foundation. Cueto was born in Coral Gables, Florida and attended Belen Jesuit Preparatory High School. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Florida International University.

  Grove Bank & Trust

  Chief Executive Officer

  Jose Cueto

  Chief Executive Officer

  Grove Bank & Trust

• 

  Asnardo Garro

  Asnardo Garro is a leader in AVILA’s Banking and Financial Services practice, where he skillfully guides financial institutions, Fortune 100 companies, and startups through banking law matters, complex financing arrangements, and bank mergers and acquisitions. With a focus on innovation and strategic counseling, Mr. Garro represents financial institutions, fintech's, and corporate clients in high-stakes transactions, as well as various commercial contracts. He adeptly handles financing, corporate, transactional, IT, and regulatory matters. His comprehensive experience encompasses asset-based lending, syndicated financing, and trade finance. Recognized as one of the top-rated banking lawyers nationwide and a 'Top Deal Maker' in Florida, Mr. Garro's leadership extends to his role as a past president and current director of the South Florida Banking Institute. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Florida.

  AVILA

  Partner

  Moderator

  Asnardo Garro

  Partner

  AVILA

Navigating Residential: Trends in Condos, Multifamily, and Luxury Real Estate

(3:15 PM - 4:00 PM)

• 

  Diego Ojeda

  President

  Rilea Group

• 

  Miki Naftali

  Chairman and CEO

  Naftali Group

• 

  Harvey Hernandez

  Fueled by his innate creativity and armed with a diehard entrepreneurial spirit, Harvey Hernandez began his involvement in real estate development as a hands-on investor in the rapidly expanding South Florida market. With more than two decades in South Florida, he has observed first-hand the region’s tremendous capacity for change and progress. Holding firm to excellence from the forefront of the industry, Harvey continues to revitalize the high-end residential market by developing innovative projects that deliver the best in location, cutting- edge amenities, luxury finishes and forward-thinking design. Harvey entered the real estate industry following a successful foray scaling a technology startup that sold in year 2000. The sale provided the initial capital for the $260 million-dollar multifamily development firm, H&H Development Company -- a pivotal catalyst to Harvey’s career. These ventures paved the way for Harvey’s subsequent endeavors, giving him the necessary momentum to launch Newgard Development Group and NGD Homesharing LLC. In 2017, Harvey partnered with Airbnb to create Niido, the first and only residential brand designed to encourage and facilitate home sharing. The partnership includes multifamily developments that are tailor-made to optimize flexible living, with a suite of technology, services and amenities. The first Niido, powered by Airbnb, communities are open in Orlando and Nashville with more locations coming soon. Following Niido’s launch, in June of 2019, Harvey expanded his partnership with Airbnb to create yet another revolutionary new hospitality brand, Natiivo. Purposely designed, built and licensed for home sharing, Natiivo is the first brand to offer ownership with home sharing as an amenity. On the heels of the success of Natiivo Miami and Natiivo Austin, which both sold out before breaking ground, his latest brand LOFTY has debuted its first iteration in Brickell, Miami. Harvey’s other notable projects include Gale Boutique Hotel Fort Lauderdale, Gale Residences in Fort Lauderdale; One Flagler office building, Centro Condominium Miami and BrickellHouse.

  Newgard Development Group

  CEO & President

  Harvey Hernandez

  CEO & President

  Newgard Development Group

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  Brad Meltzer

  Brad Meltzer is a Partner and President of Two Roads Development. In this role, he oversees real estate development activities from design through construction and supports the team in identifying new opportunities. Meltzer has facilitated the growth of numerous regional business units scaling some from start up to more than 250 employees. Specializing in delivering high-end projects, Meltzer has led award-winning projects from inception to completion across various asset classes, including condominium, multifamily, hospitality, office, and retail. A sampling of such projects includes Biscayne Beach, The One Thousand Museum Tower, the 4 Tower Paraiso Complex, the Ritz Carlton Residences Miami Beach, The Marquis, Millicento, W Hotel South Beach, One Hotel and Homes, Icon Bay, Carillon Miami Beach (aka Canyon Ranch), Town Center One at Dadeland, Aventura Mall Expansion, Westshore Marina Pointe, Mandarin Oriental Miami. Meltzer led the construction of 15 buildings in excess of 35 stories and 2 in excess of 60 stories. He holds a Masters's in Architecture from Tulane University and has more than 30 years of construction experience, having headed a top national construction firm as its CEO. Meltzer also sits on the Advisory Board of the University of Miami MRED+U and Construction Management programs, Tulane University School of Architecture Advisory Board, Gulliver Prep Board of Trustees, and Voices for Children Board of Directors.

  Two Roads Development

  Partner & President

  Brad Meltzer

  Partner & President

  Two Roads Development

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  Brian Duff

  VP, Sales

  FirstService Residential

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  Sara Barli Herald

  Sara's involvement with Public-Private Partnerships predates the 'P3' moniker. Her work within this space can be seen across Miami's iconic skyline. Sara's comprehensive understanding of real estate, corporate and government relations enables her to provide clients multifaceted legal guidance. Sara brings to the table over two decades of business management experience. Having served as a C-suite executive within private and public corporations and NGOs, as well as heading a government agency, gives Sara a profound understanding of the implications of complex business decisions. She is successful at helping her clients navigate the intersection of business and law having once worn their shoes.

  Bilzin Sumberg

  Partner

  Moderator

  Sara Barli Herald

  Partner

  Bilzin Sumberg

Remarks from the Podium

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  Leigha Lugo

  As a dynamic and passionate leader at SKYX Platforms, Leigha Lugo is the Director of Marketing and Sales, collaborating across vital channels to advance SKYX's mission of redefining US safety standards for electrical installation, to revolutionizing the design of lighting, fans, and smart home technologies. Her expertise and dedication are instrumental in driving innovation and ensuring top-notch safety and quality in the industry. Previously, Leigha served as the Marketing Manager for the Dallas Market Center's lighting department, where she managed Lightovation, North America's largest residential lighting show, home to over 1 million square feet of lighting. Her ability to build strong relationships with reputable lighting manufacturers and retailers has been key to fostering long-term partnerships with industry professionals nationwide.

  SKYX Platforms

  Director of Marketing and Sales

  Remarks from the Podium

  Leigha Lugo

  Director of Marketing and Sales

  SKYX Platforms

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  Steven Klein

  Steven Klein serves as Managing Partner for Gerson Preston, the Miami-based accounting and advisory firm, that successfully transitioned from its well-known founding partners to a new generation of leaders under Steven’s guidance. As Managing Partner, Steven leads a collaborative group of partners who share responsibility for the firm’s governance, finances, service delivery, recruitment, and growth strategy. Steven and his partners are committed to the firm’s core values of providing consistent, high-quality representation with experienced, innovative, and proactive CPA’s and financial advisors. Together, they have carefully cultivated the firm’s reputation as a sophisticated, capable, multicultural team of professionals, many of whom were trained at national accounting firms and all of whom have chosen Gerson Preston because of its culture of organic growth, teamwork and enduring working relationships. Steven continues to represent his many long-time clients on issues relating to the management of financial audit and attest engagements, business consulting, advising on mergers and acquisitions, tax compliance and research issues, as well as, presiding over financial reporting and related internal accounting control design and implementation matters. An experienced veteran of a national accounting firm and thirty-plus year CPA, Steven is a people person who embraces the importance of business and personal relationships to understand and pursue his client’s financial goals. He takes pride in helping his clients build successful businesses, many of which reflect Miami’s entrepreneurial and global economy, such as real estate development, professional services, technology, international business and investments, retail and hospitality. Steven previously chaired the firm’s Assurance & Accounting Services practice overseeing financial reporting, audits, attestation, and accounting advisory services. Along with his international team, Steven helped establish the Firm’s presence internationally through its active participation in worldwide accounting and law association networks. The Firm can service clients global needs that may require expertise and presence in jurisdictions throughout the world, previously the domain of only large multinational firms.

  Gerson Preston Klein Lips Eisenberg Gelber

  Managing Partner

  Remarks from the Podium

  Steven Klein

  Managing Partner

  Gerson Preston Klein Lips Eisenberg Gelber