Steve Witkoff

The professional trajectory of Steve Witkoff originated within the legal sector, where he practiced as a real estate attorney. During the early 1980s, he served at the firm Dreyer & Traub, a tenure that provided the foundational expertise for his transition into property ownership. This period established his early reputation for negotiation within the United States real estate market.

In 1985, Witkoff partnered with fellow attorney Laurence Gluck to establish Stellar Management. The firm’s name was a portmanteau of the founders' first names. Their initial strategy focused on the acquisition of affordable multi-family residential assets in Washington Heights and the Northwest Bronx.

By the mid-1990s, the partnership controlled approximately 85 buildings containing over 3,000 apartments. Witkoff began targeting lower Manhattan office properties in 1995, signaling a shift toward commercial real estate. This expansion included the 1996 acquisition of 33 Maiden Lane, a tower designed by Philip Johnson.

To facilitate the 33 Maiden Lane purchase, Witkoff secured financing through Credit Suisse First Boston. In 1997, he finalized a 25-year lease agreement with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The bank occupied the top 13 floors of the 27-story structure.

The year 1997 marked a structural change as Witkoff departed Stellar Management to form the Witkoff Group. Serving as chairman and chief executive officer, he broadened his operational scope to include land rehabilitation and residential construction. The firm established its primary headquarters in New York City.

In 1996, Witkoff collaborated with Rubin Schron to acquire the Daily News Building for $138 million. Following this high-profile purchase, he extended his investment reach beyond the local market. New acquisitions were finalized in Chicago, Dallas, and Philadelphia.

By October 1998, the Witkoff Group managed 11 million square feet of commercial space. However, a planned $2 billion initial public offering was abandoned when the real estate market faltered. This period of instability led to the formal dissolution of the partnership with Laurence Gluck.

The separation of assets resulted in Gluck retaining the residential portfolio while Witkoff focused on office properties. Despite the canceled IPO, the Witkoff Group maintained significant holdings in land and hotel developments. The firm continued to navigate the complexities of the Manhattan skyline.

The firm’s portfolio eventually included the Woolworth Building, a landmark of the Tribeca district. This acquisition underscored a strategic move toward historically significant and high-profile assets. Such properties became central to the firm’s reputation for managing complex urban developments.

Following the 2008 financial crisis, Witkoff pursued growth in the luxury residential and hospitality sectors. In 2013, he partnered with Harry Macklowe to purchase the Park Lane Hotel for $660 million. The property sits on the southern edge of Central Park.

Also in 2013, the Witkoff Group and Fisher Brothers acquired land in Tribeca for $223 million. This site became the foundation for 111 Murray Street, a residential tower reaching 792 feet. The project reflected a continued interest in the luxury condominium market.

The firm’s interests extended to Las Vegas with the $600 million purchase of the unfinished Fontainebleau resort. Renamed The Drew, the project represented a significant venture into the casino and resort industry. By 2019, the firm’s global footprint encompassed approximately 50 properties.

In April 2020, Witkoff participated in the Great American Economic Revival Industry Group. This body was convened by Donald Trump to address the economic disruptions caused by the global pandemic. His involvement provided a bridge between private sector real estate and federal economic policy.

By late 2024, The Wall Street Journal reported that industry peers viewed Witkoff as an effective negotiator. The publication noted his reputation for maintaining a personable demeanor while navigating complex business discussions. This professional standing was built over four decades in the property market.

In November 2024, Witkoff was designated as a co-chair for the Presidential Inaugural Committee. This role followed years of private sector activity and established his position within the transition team for the second administration of Donald Trump. His career shifted toward administrative and advisory functions.