2024 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Chris Packard, Northstar Project & Real Estate Services

Three skills that you use every day in your position:

Strategic leadership, team development and communication. Providing clear direction to help our team navigate complex projects, mentor and prepare future leaders and build strong client relations through proactive communication and consistent positive delivery outcomes.

Best book, podcast, or app for aspiring leaders: 

Podcast: “The Professor G Pod with Scott Galloway.”

Best advice for new leaders in 10 words or less: 

Be direct, honest, consistent and humble. Own your mistakes. 

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? 

The accomplishment I am most proud of is that, for the past 15 years, I have been co-leading and overseeing Harvard University Housing’s capital planning and project management account to upgrade and maintain their real estate portfolio. I co-manage the portfolio, which spans from ground-up development to managing over 60+ capital reinvestment projects annually. Our team’s innovative approach includes diligent communication, embedding ourselves within our client organization at all levels, rigorous stakeholder engagement to achieve high-quality project outcomes.