Jonathan L. Mechanic of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson Elected Next Chair of the Real Estate Board of New York

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY), the City's leading real estate trade association, today announced that Jonathan L. Mechanic, Chairman of Fried Frank's Real Estate Department, has been elected to serve as the next Chair of REBNY.

Mechanic will succeed current Chair Jed Walentas, Chairman and CEO of Two Trees Management, and begin a three-year term on January 1, 2027.

"Jed has been an exceptional leader during a pivotal period for New York City," said Mechanic. "Under his leadership, the organization advanced policies that will strengthen our economy, create new housing opportunities, and support the city's long-term growth. I am honored to succeed him and look forward to continuing that work on behalf of REBNY's members and the city about which we all care deeply.”

"Jonathan has been a trusted leader within REBNY for many years and one of the most respected voices in New York real estate," said Walentas. "He brings an extraordinary depth of experience, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to the future of our city. I have no doubt that Jon will provide thoughtful leadership for this organization as it continues its essential work on behalf of the industry and all New Yorkers."

Mechanic is Chairman of Fried Frank's Real Estate Department and a member of the firm's Governance Committee. He is widely recognized as one of the nation's most knowledgeable and experienced real estate attorneys. He has advised on some of New York City's most significant real estate transactions and development projects including the JP Morgan headquarters at 270 Park Avenue, the future Citadel headquarters at 350 Park Avenue and the recently announced American Express headquarters at 2 World Trade Center. A longtime REBNY leader, Mechanic serves on the organization's Executive Committee and Board of Governors and chairs the Advisory Board of the NYU Furman Center for Real Estate and Urban Policy. Mechanic’s election marks the first time in REBNY’s 130-year history that a practicing attorney will lead the organization. Mr. Mechanic will remain chairman of Fried Frank’s Real Estate Department and continue to serve his clients.

"On behalf of REBNY's members and staff, I want to thank Jed for his leadership and service over the past three years," said REBNY President James Whelan. "His tenure helped advance some of the most important housing and economic development priorities facing New York City. I also congratulate Jonathan on his election as Chair and look forward to working with him to continue advancing REBNY's mission and supporting a stronger, more prosperous New York City."

Walentas was elected Chair in 2024. During his tenure, he championed policies that helped strengthen New York City's economy, support housing development, and promote investment across the five boroughs.

Among the organization's accomplishments during Walentas' chairmanship were:

• Securing major wins in Albany, including reforms to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) to support housing production, modernize environmental review processes, and support sustainable economic growth.

• Championing the 467-m office conversion incentive, an extension of the 421-a completion deadline, and the lifting of New York City's 12 FAR cap to spur housing production.

• Advancing the City of Yes agenda, including City of Yes for Housing Opportunity and key rezonings such as Midtown South to support new housing and office conversions.

• Renewing and expanding REAP and ICAP to support job creation, business growth, and investment across New York City, and advocating for the creation of the Race for Space program to attract out-of-state businesses to the five boroughs.

• Expanding the City's childcare center tax credit program to support working families and increase childcare capacity across New York City.

• Supporting the MTA's Capital Plan and congestion pricing to strengthen transit infrastructure, improve mobility, and reduce congestion.

• Promoting housing affordability through support for the Affordable Housing Retention Act and Housing Access Voucher Program, expanding homeownership opportunities and rental assistance for New Yorkers.

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ABOUT THE REAL ESTATE BOARD OF NEW YORK

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) is the City’s leading real estate trade association. Founded in 1896, REBNY represents commercial, residential, and institutional property owners, builders, managers, investors, brokers, and salespeople; banks, financial service companies, utilities, attorneys, architects, and contractors; corporations, co-partnerships, and individuals professionally interested in New York City real estate. REBNY conducts research on various civic matters including tax policy, city planning and zoning, rental conditions, land use policy, building codes, and other city, state, and federal legislation. REBNY regularly publishes market data, policy reports, and broker surveys. In addition, REBNY provides for its members: informational, technical, and technological resources; networking and charitable service opportunities; qualifying and continuing education courses; professional education programs, seminars, and designations; career-changing awards; legal advice; and a wide range of additional member benefits. For more information, please visit www.rebny.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Fiona Bundy

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(212) 616-5208