Early Life
Jorge M. Pérez was born on October 17, 1949, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Cuban parents of Spanish origin. In 1959, his family relocated to Colombia, and in 1968, they moved to Miami, Florida. Pérez attended Miami Dade College and later earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Long Island University C.W. Post Campus and a master's degree in urban planning from the University of Michigan in 1976.
Rise to Success
Pérez began his career as an economic development director for the city of Miami. In 1979, he co-founded The Related Group with Stephen M. Ross, focusing initially on affordable housing. The Related Group became the largest affordable housing builder in Florida. Pérez expanded into rental apartments and high-rise condo developments, revitalizing neighborhoods in Miami Beach and West Palm Beach. Today, the company has developed or managed over 90,000 residences.
Key Business Strategies
Pérez's key business strategies involved identifying emerging neighborhoods, building high-quality residences, and incorporating art and design into his projects. The Related Group has partnered with renowned architects and designers. Furthermore, Pérez diversified development, expanding into other parts of Florida and other states, and internationally. He emphasized a hands-on approach, focusing on details and adapting to market demands.
Philanthropy
Pérez is a dedicated philanthropist, particularly in the arts. He has made substantial donations to the Miami Art Museum, now known as the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). In 2011, he pledged $35 million in cash and artwork to the museum. In September 2021, he donated $33 million to the Miami Foundation, and also donated a $10 million condo to The Miami Foundation. Furthermore, Pérez and his wife signed The Giving Pledge in 2012, committing to donate a majority of their wealth to philanthropy.
