Mariela Abreu has been named a Top Woman in Construction

September 9, 2024

(Hard) hats off to DBI Partner and Senior Director, Mariela Abreu, for the prestigious honor, awarded by the New York Construction Report for her pioneering leadership and advocacy.

The announcement, which was shared in the magazine’s Summer 2024 issue, profiles Mariela’s history of accomplishments, including global project management work that numbers in the millions of square feet, and billions of dollars in real estate transaction and capital projects experience.

Over the course of her career, Mariela has established herself as a creative problem-solver who isn’t afraid of a challenge. Those challenges include the renovation of the historic Hotel Chelsea, the legendary 200,000-sf residence that artists like Bob Dylan and Patti Smith once called home, as well as the development of the 69 A Street project, a 46,000-sf, ground-up Mass Timber adaptive reuse development – the first of its kind in the United States.

The article includes a quote from Suzanne Cooper, VP of Global Real Estate for Booking Holdings and a DBI client, that encapsulates the value Mariela brings to every project:

[Mariela] adeptly manages budgets and resources, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget without comprising on quality. Her financial acumen has resulted in significant cost savings and optimized project delivery, earning the respect and trust of colleagues and clients alike. Mariela is a consummate professional who leads by example, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. Her dedication and contributions to the field and her ability to inspire and mentor others make her a standout leader and she is deserving of this prestigious award.
Suzanne Cooper, VP of Global Real Estate for Booking Holdings

Asked by the magazine for advice she would give to other women in construction, Mariela said the following:

  • Be confident – confidence is key to gaining respect and recognition.
  • Finding the right mentor is key.
  • Build a strong network and new doors will open.
  • Advocate for inclusion and encourage more women to join the construction industry.
  • Understand that setbacks may occur, but resilience and perseverance are essential.
  • Learn from challenges and use them as an opportunity to learn and to grow.

You can read the full article in New York Construction report by clicking the following link.

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Emily Puhnaty, Director of Business Development & Communications
212-533-1600
ep@dbiprojects.com