Richard LeFrak & family

Early Life

Richard LeFrak was born in New York City in 1945 to Samuel J. LeFrak, a real estate developer. Growing up in the LeFrak City complex instilled in him an early appreciation for real estate and the importance of community development. He graduated cum laude from Amherst College with a B.A. and earned a J.D. from Columbia University.

Rise to Success

LeFrak joined his family's real estate firm in 1968 and was appointed president in 1975. In 2003, he became Chairman and CEO following his father's death. Under his leadership, the LeFrak Organization expanded and diversified, notably transforming the Jersey City waterfront into the Newport mixed-use complex. He has also led the expansion into new markets, including South Florida with projects like SoLe Mia.

Key Business Strategies

LeFrak's business strategy focuses on long-term ownership, community development, and innovation. He emphasizes creating sustainable, mixed-use communities. His focus on in-house expertise, from design to management, has allowed the LeFrak Organization to control costs and ensure quality across its portfolio. The strategy is rooted in the family business' commitment to build for the community.

Philanthropy

LeFrak presides over the Richard S. and Karen LeFrak Charitable Foundation. He is involved with supporting arts, education, health, and human services across the U.S. He has also contributed to educational institutions, including Amherst College and the Richard L. LeFrak Center for Sustainable Energy at Columbia University.