REAL ESTATE NEWS

The Women of Influence Los Angeles conference this Tuesday is gathering some of the region’s top real estate leaders at L.A. Live for a day of networking, market insight, and leadership discussions. Among the headline speakers is Claire Johnston, CEO, Americas at Lendlease, who will deliver the morning keynote focused on innovation and inclusion in a changing industry.

The event agenda highlights sessions centered on career advancement, deal-making strategies in a challenging capital environment, and leadership development. Breakout tracks feature panels on capital allocation, sustainability, and the evolving expectations of tenants and consumers—a reflection of the shifting forces shaping commercial real estate today.

Johnston said she hopes to challenge attendees to approach these shifts with creativity rather than conformity. “For women, it is essential that we bring our perspectives to the industry's evolution,” she said. “We're not going to get where the future looks like by doing the same things we’ve always done. We need to not conform to old systems. We need to help reshape them.”

Throughout the day, panelists will explore practical ways to lead change, from navigating imposter syndrome to driving organizational transformation. The “Leadership Unplugged” session will focus on how executives can create pathways for women and underrepresented voices to move into decision-making roles. Later in the afternoon, the “Market Roundtable” will examine the region’s investment outlook heading into 2025.

Johnston said she sees these forums as essential for reinforcing collaboration and confidence. “When you get to the table, you have a responsibility and an obligation to contribute fully, to lead, to voice your opinion, to shape outcomes,” she said. “Credibility comes from listening deeply and following through. That’s leadership—it’s about aligning people with different priorities toward a common goal.”

Now leading Lendlease’s Americas operations, Johnston noted that the industry’s current cycle—marked by uncertainty, reinvention, and opportunity—demands adaptability more than ever. She added that while change brings challenges, it also opens room for innovation and impact. “Real estate’s exciting and ever changing—it’s full of unexpected challenges and opportunities, but it’s a great chance to create something tangible and lasting,” she said.

Attendees will cap the day with a networking reception, designed to connect established and emerging leaders across all sectors of real estate. Johnston said she looks forward to meeting her peers and seeing the community’s energy firsthand. “It’s going to be a really exciting and stimulating day,” she said. “Everyone plays an essential role, and women particularly need to lift and stretch into what a new, innovative world is going to look like.”

Source: GlobeSt/ALM