John Usdan, CEO of Midwood Investment & Development. Founded in 1925 as a residential brokerage, Midwood is a vertically integrated investment, development and management platform focused on best-in-class mixed-use commercial and residential properties. John has spent the past 42 years helping Midwood amass a portfolio that includes over 130 properties across the U.S., and several million square feet in its development pipeline. His leadership reflects Midwood’s mission statement, which is: “to restore and revitalize the fabric of our urban centers, and to improve the way people live, work and play through industry-leading design, planning and execution.”
In addition to Midwood, John is actively involved in several industry, non-profit and philanthropic initiatives. His current affiliations include:
- Trustee, The Brooklyn Academy of Music
- Chair, BAM’s Strategic Planning Committee
- Board President, The Usdan Center
- Board Member, UJA Federation
- Board Member, The Hastings Center Board of Directors
- Chair, Hastings Capital Campaign
- Board Member, Corporate Board of Merchants National Properties
John is Trustee Emeritus for Wesleyan University and a previous Trustee for Brandeis University.
The Dealmakers’ Edge with A.Y. Strauss highlights the stories, successes, and struggles behind major commercial real estate investors. Each episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at commercial real estate leaders and their unique edge.
Hosted by Aaron Y. Strauss, Managing Partner at A.Y. Strauss
Aaron Y. Strauss is one of the leading legal advisors in the commercial real estate industry, providing insight and guidance for billions worth of transactions during his career. As our firm’s founder and managing partner, he has positioned A.Y. Strauss as one of the region’s most respected law firms for commercial real estate owners, lenders and sponsors, serving the needs of our clients with the utmost in care, integrity and transparency.