Boston Magazine has announced its annual ranking of the 150 Most Influential Bostonians of 2025, shining a spotlight on individuals who are significantly impacting the city’s future across various sectors, including business, politics, and culture.
This year, an impressive 15 real estate leaders have been acknowledged for their contributions to Boston’s economic landscape and community development. Their recognition underscores not only the importance of the real estate sector in driving urban transformation but also the prominent role of Indian American leadership in reshaping the future of the city.
Among those honored, John Fish, the Chair and CEO of Suffolk Construction Company, stands out at position 11.
With an expansive portfolio that includes 41 million square feet of healthcare and K-12 academic construction, Fish’s company is a powerhouse in the industry with 14 offices nationwide.
In December, he was named a Distinguished Bostonian by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, a title that reflects his esteemed status in the city.
Reportedly worth over $2 billion, Fish is a go-to figure for major construction projects in Boston.
His philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy, as he and his wife, Cynthia, recently made headlines with their $10 million pledge to Tabor Academy, following an earlier donation of $25 million to Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
Jonathan Kraft, President of the Kraft Group and an influential player in the New England Patriots organization, ranks 12th.
Recognized for spearheading a total of $550 million in improvements to Gillette Stadium, Kraft has become a vital figure in local sports and real estate.
This year may see him taking on a new role if his brother Josh wins the upcoming mayoral election against Michelle Wu, as the fallout could bring him into the public spotlight even more.
Kraft is also pacing toward potentially securing a stadium for the New England Revolution in the Boston metro area, demonstrating his dual commitment to both sports and the community.
At rank 19, Jeremy Sclar leads WS Development as Chair and CEO.
With a remarkable track record of 7.6 million square feet developed in Boston’s Seaport District, Sclar’s influence extends beyond mere figures.
His 400 Summer Street project has been called transformational by Mayor Michelle Wu, and Governor Maura Healey lauded his use of low-carbon cement at the opening of One Boston Wharf Road.
Sclar’s investments and philanthropic commitments have solidified his network within the city, marking him as a pivotal figure in Boston’s development.
Thomas O’Brien, Managing Partner and CEO of HYM Investment Group, sits at rank 22.
With over 20 million square feet developed across Greater Boston and $12 billion in investments, O’Brien is a significant player in the city’s evolution.
Though he recently decided against entering the mayoral race, his background as a former director of the Boston Redevelopment Authority and involvement with both governors and mayors show his deep roots in Boston’s political and real estate circles.
Peter Palandjian, Chair and CEO of Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation, is featured at rank 42.
Managing properties worth $11.5 billion and supporting significant community causes, Palandjian’s recent initiatives include a notable donation of $7.5 million to Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
His advocacy for mental health treatment and political engagement, highlighted by their support for a failed psychedelic drug legalization measure, shows his commitment to community wellbeing through both real estate and philanthropy.
At rank 43, Jonathan and Stephen Davis, founders of the Davis Companies, are major contributors to Boston’s residential landscape.
With 14,000 residential units under their belt and a growing focus on scientific lab spaces, the father-son team is critical in addressing the city’s housing needs, particularly in high-demand areas.
Darryl Settles, President and Managing Partner of Catalyst Ventures Development, is recognized at rank 76.
With over 1,000 residential units developed, Settles has been influential in diversity and equity initiatives, particularly with his involvement in the Boston Real Estate Inclusion Fund.
His commitment to mentorship and community engagement has garnered support from numerous allies in the industry, showcasing the long-lasting impact of his career over the last 25 years.
Ranked at 78, Kevin Phelan serves as the Boston office Co-Chair for Colliers International.
With over $1 billion serviced by the capital markets group and a team of over 130 employees, Phelan balances a busy professional life with community outreach.
Known for his networking breakfasts that gather local professionals, he played a pivotal role in financing the preservation of the iconic S.S. Pierce Building and refinancing the Addison apartments in East Boston.
Maggie Gold Seelig, founder of MGS Group Real Estate, comfortably occupies rank 85.
Her firm has achieved sales exceeding $4.5 billion, thriving in the luxury property segment.
Highlighting notable properties such as a $19.8 million estate in Hyannis Port and a $7.5 million landmark on Beacon Hill, Seelig continues to contribute vibrantly to Boston’s real estate market.
Steven Samuels, at rank 89, heads Samuels & Associates with an impressive total development of 8 million square feet.
Projects like Lyrik Back Bay demonstrate Samuels’s expertise, earning him accolades and shaping major parts of Boston’s skyline.
His ability to turn ambitious visions into reality has earned him recognition as a significant player in the city.
Elizabeth Lowrey, Principal at Elkus Manfredi Architects, is ranked 90.
With a robust portfolio of over 980,000 square feet designed at 401 Park, Lowrey’s commitment to sustainable building practices is evident in the over 1.4 million square feet of LEED Gold–certified developments her firm has completed.
Honored with the Spirit Award from the Fenway Alliance this year, she has demonstrated a dedication to uplifting the next generation of local talent.
Tracy Campion occupies rank 91 as the principal and owner of Campion and Company, showcasing more than $9.3 billion in residential sales since its inception.
Renowned for securing some of the most prestigious listings in the city, Campion continues to build her network among Boston’s elite with access to high-value properties, including a $16 million penthouse.
David Nagahiro, ranked at 121, is the Principal and President of CBT Architects.
Recording over $56 million in in-state billing this year, he has made significant strides in shaping Boston’s commercial architecture, including the visually stunning 121 Seaport project which promotes climate resilience.
Nagahiro remains actively engaged in promoting diversity and equity within the architecture profession.
Reetika Vijay, Managing Principal of IA Interior Architects, holds the rank of 137.
Specializing in hybrid workspaces, her firm has a notable average project size of 150,000 square feet, recently handling the design for CarGurus’s new headquarters in Boston.
Her recognition with the 2021 HiP “For Greater Good” award highlights her contributions to the industry and the local community, alongside her involvement with the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.
Lastly, Ricardo Rodriguez, a Realtor with Ricardo Rodriguez & Associates, ranked 148.
Celebrated for over $4 billion in career sales, he leads one of the top luxury property-selling teams in New England.
Rodriguez’s profound knowledge of the real estate market and active social presence bolster his reputation, evidenced by his co-chair role at the prestigious Shakespeare Under the Stars gala.
As Boston continues to evolve, the influence of these real estate leaders is undeniable, shaping the city’s infrastructure and community through development, philanthropy, and civic engagement.
To see the complete list of honorees, visit Boston Magazine.
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