By: Ian Matthew 

Dan Leverett  serves as a Professor of Practice at Texas A&M University, where he teaches graduate classes in the Master of Land and Property Development program. Additionally, Dan leads a private development team dedicated to creating and maximizing value within real estate investment opportunities for both U.S. and international equity partners. His passion lies in the art of placemaking, crafting spaces that enrich communities and transform everyday lives. With a background spanning over 43 years in corporate and commercial real estate development, Dan has successfully completed over $1.5 billion (5 MSF) in mixed-use, commercial, multifamily, and residential projects. Throughout his career, he has held roles with prominent entities including ExxonMobil Corporation, Friendswood Development, The Woodlands Development Company, and Atwood Oceanics. Notably, he spent eight years abroad, contributing to international business endeavors. He has had P&L responsibility for commercial operations and development of urban mixed-use, office, retail, hotel, and multifamily projects, and has been instrumental in driving numerous award-winning developments that have left a lasting impact.

Q&A with Dan Leverett

Can you share a bit about your early life and how it influenced your career path?

Growing up, I spent much of my childhood exploring the great outdoors of New Mexico and Colorado, which instilled in me an appreciation for the balance between the built and natural environments. This connection to nature not only fueled my adventurous spirit but also my commitment to sustainable development in real estate, aiming to preserve our natural world for future generations.

With such a diverse career, what drives your passion in real estate development?

My passion lies in the art of placemaking, crafting spaces that enrich communities and transform everyday lives. Embracing this multifaceted industry allows me to explore various aspects of the business and continuously challenge myself, while serving the community, creating special places that change people’s lives. 

Additionally, my passion for education and mentorship is expressed in my role as a Professor of Practice at Texas A&M University within the School of Architecture’s Master of Land and Property Development program. Throughout my teaching journey, I have had the privilege of giving back by imparting knowledge and mentoring numerous students in the real estate industry and related fields. 

You’ve lived in several global cities. How have these experiences shaped your approach to development?

Having had the privilege of living all around the world, including some of my favorite places such as  Melbourne, Singapore, and London, has expanded my perspective on urban planning and design. Each city possesses its distinct beauty and challenges, imparting valuable lessons on the significance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in development. These experiences have enriched my approach, allowing me to integrate a diverse array of globally-informed strategies into my projects.

With a busy career and family life, how do you manage to balance your responsibilities?

Balance is key. Despite the demands of my career, I ensure to allocate quality time for my family and engage in hobbies that rejuvenate my spirit, such as playing acoustic guitar, oil painting, and enjoying the outdoors. This balance between professional endeavors and personal life keeps me grounded and inspired.

What would you say is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from your extensive career in real estate development?

Networking is crucial. By engaging in effective networking, professionals can establish mutually beneficial connections, access new opportunities, foster collaboration, and inspire innovation.

Looking back, what is a memory from your career that stands out to you?

A particularly meaningful memory was seeing a young couple walking down the streets of Waterway Square, ultimately sharing their first kiss by the Waterway Square fountain. Witnessing this authentic expression of human emotion in a space meticulously crafted for such experiences provided me with insight into the profound impact of these designed environments. It’s these moments that drive my passion for creating meaningful and engaging environments.

As someone who’s achieved so much, what advice would you give to young professionals entering the real estate development field?

My advice is to understand your personality traits, particularly whether you lean towards introversion or extroversion, as this self-awareness will guide you in finding your place within the industry. I believe that recognizing these inherent strengths is vital for navigating a successful career path and pinpointing areas for personal development. Also, never underestimate the value of continuous learning and adaptability. The real estate environment is constantly evolving, and remaining informed and flexible is essential for navigating it successfully.

Key Takeaways

• Placemaking as a Mission: Dan Leverett’s goes beyond traditional real estate development, focusing on placemaking—crafting spaces that enhance communities and individuals’ lives. His commitment to creating environments that foster connections and preserve the natural world exemplifies his comprehensive approach to development.
• Global Perspectives in Local Development: Dan’s extensive international living experiences, spanning six continents, have deeply influenced his approach to real estate development. These global insights have empowered him to incorporate a wide range of culturally mindful strategies into his projects, demonstrating the importance of a global perspective in local community development.
• The Importance of Balance and Continuous Learning: Despite the demands of his career, Dan emphasizes the significance of a balance between professional responsibilities, personal interests, and family life. His commitment to continuous learning, whether in his professional field or in personal pursuits such as music and language acquisition, underscores the value of lifelong curiosity and adaptability for both professional advancement and personal fulfillment.

Published by: Khy Talara