Rachel Gines, 29

Rachel Gines refers to her start in real estate as “a happy accident.” While a student at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Gines met portfolio managers from CenterSquare when they visited campus.

“I realized that, actually, real estate was something that I’d always been interested in, but didn’t really know how to go about pursuing as a full-time career immediately post-undergrad,” said Gines, who has been at CenterSquare since just after graduation in 2017.

That serendipitous start in real estate speaks to Gines’s perception of the industry. “Real estate is so much about people,” she said. “So you find yourself meeting the right people and making the right match.” 

As the first member of her family to get a four-year degree, Gines acknowledges the support of both her family at home — she grew up in Queens — and her family at CenterSquare, who have provided her with ample opportunities to prove herself. She continually puts her people skills to the test — it’s real estate’s human aspects that she finds most compelling. 

Then again, Gines finds excitement in most facets of her work. Right now, for example, she’s in the process of raising a new fund on the business’ private equity side. She’s been involved in the entire launch of that fund, from the creation of materials to helping the portfolio manager home in on a strategy. 

“Part of the value that we provide as capital markets professionals is the ability to understand what investors are looking for and help translate what we have to serve those needs,” said Gines. 

The enthusiasm she brings to her job isn’t limited to the office. At home, Gines says she loves to cook elaborate dinners and spend time with her miniature dachshund. She also travels extensively, both for work and for fun.