162: Thomas O'Brien, Managing Partner and CEO at HYM Investment Group

Thomas O'Brien is the founding partner, managing partner, and CEO of HYM Investment Group, a leading real estate investment and development firm who are currently leading the development of more than 20 million square feet in Greater Boston. O'Brien has an extensive background in real estate, design, and construction, with a particular focus on transformative projects that revitalize urban spaces. His noteworthy achievements include managing the redevelopment of the Bulfinch Crossing, Suffolk Downs, and Cambridge Crossing projects in Boston, Massachusetts.

Throughout the discussion, themes of resilience, strategic vision, and community impact are highlighted. O'Brien elaborates on his firm's focus on developing high-impact projects situated near transportation hubs, transforming urban landscapes while catering to market demands. Navigating economic fluctuations, seeking opportunities in undervalued sectors like office spaces, and maintaining transparency with partners are key strategies shared by O'Brien in realizing ambitious real estate objectives.

Key Takeaways:

• Vision and Strategy: O'Brien emphasizes the importance of a long-term, community-focused vision when selecting projects, considering both investor interests and regional development goals.
• Navigating Challenges: Highlighted are strategies to overcome economic hurdles, such as rising interest rates and building costs, while keeping projects on track.
• Teamwork and Values: O'Brien stresses building a strong team grounded in integrity and shared values, crucial for navigating the complexities of large development projects.
• Resilience in Business: Through his personal and professional journey, O'Brien underscores the need for resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning in entrepreneurship.
• Financial Partnerships: The role of strategic financial partnerships is crucial in successfully executing large-scale, multi-phase development projects like Bullfinch Crossing and Suffolk Downs.

Notable Quotes:

1. "You need to be the opposite of the kids' soccer team. If the kids are all chasing the ball over this way, you've got to think about, should I be going in a different direction?"
2. "Always tell the truth exactly about what you know at the time you know it."
3. "There's a lot of people who've come into the business new in the last 15 years, but you have to really understand what was happening at that point."
4. "A key lesson for young people in this business is you have to be resilient."
5. "Empathy breeds from realizing every family, every person has difficulty in their lives."

Resources:

• HYM Investment Group

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