From reviving Toronto's Rogers Centre and restoring the glory of SkyDome to developing Tortoise One, West Palm Beach's newest mixed-use residential complex, Jake Geleerd's approach to development seamlessly combines innovative design, sustainability, and community engagement. Palm Beach County ranks as one of the top counties in the nation, attracting businesses and people in record numbers.

Jake, a Chicago native, is the President/CEO and Co-Founder of Tortoise Properties, a commercial and residential real estate company focused on acquiring and developing properties throughout South Florida. Over the last few years, he has purchased over 360,000 square feet of Class A commercial properties and delivered a 264-unit luxury residential development in prime Palm Beach County locations—quite an achievement for a former Club Med golf pro inspired by billionaire Sam Zell, considered the forefather of the modern real estate investment trust (REIT). “Sam Zell taught me to maximize every minute of every day and that there's no greater loss than wasted time,” Jake says. He began his career in the real estate investment industry with Equity Group, a private firm Zell founded. While there, he underwrote and acquired significant assets and portfolios and then took them public as Equity Residential Properties, Equity Office Properties, and Equity Lifestyle Properties. Jake embraced and mastered many of Zell’s best practices, learning to focus on the strategic and analytical pursuit of investing in the right assets in the right markets at the right times.

However, there have been hurdles. If Jake could, he’d tell his younger self to be open to options: “Always have a Plan B or C. Plan A doesn’t always work out, and those who can improvise, adapt, and overcome by planning will succeed.” He shares this advice with his team, emphasizing his hands-on leadership style. “I actively delegate to smarter people, and I'm committed to educating, collaborating, and learning – none of which can be achieved by working from home. Attention to detail is essential, with an eye on what's important, and developing our team into the future leaders of Tortoise Properties and our community.”

A board member of the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, Jake is optimistic about the county’s growth and confident we can maintain a strong economy while addressing the most pressing issues. “To remain one of the best places in the world to live, work, and play, the county must continue to prioritize developing diverse housing options, attract and support the relocation and expansion of businesses, enhance the nationally ranked education system, and invest in our infrastructure, including Palm Beach International Airport. We must do everything we can to live our best lives in Wall Street South.”

One could say Jake is living his best life. He is an avid golfer with many big wins under his belt, but his most significant achievement may be founding the Guy Geleerd Memorial Golf Invitational in memory of his dad. Over its 28 years, the event has raised over $500,000 for lung cancer research at the University of Chicago and the V Foundation for Cancer Research. He also supports the Jewish United Fund, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Els for Autism Foundation, and other worthwhile causes.

Despite his success, Jake remains humble and approachable. His down-to-earth style is admirable. He exemplifies genuine appreciation for those around him, making them feel valued and heard with the realization that one person is not bigger than the team. “The Ted Lasso series inspired me to be a more compassionate leader and redefine what winning means—believing.”