John Townsend Featured in NEREJ’s Ones To Watch – Industry Leaders Spotlight

November 2023

Our life science leader, John Townsend, was featured in the New England Real Estate Journal’s Ones To Watch – Industry Leaders Spotlight issue.

Below is the excerpt from what he had to say about what accomplishment he is most proud of. 

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?
The accomplishment I am most proud of is working to establish Northstar, an owner’s project management firm, as a market leader in the life science sector for corporate and institutional clients. We’ve partnered with top pharmaceutical companies and major institutions helping them navigate challenging mergers, spin-offs, and realignments so they can further their mission of discovering lifesaving therapies and medicine. Today, Northstar has led the transformation or development of over 5 MSF of R&D and manufacturing space in the Greater Boston area.

3 skills that you use every day in your position.
Consensus building, risk mitigation, decomposition of complex challenges into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Best book, podcast, or app for aspiring leaders.
How Leadership (Actually) Works by Larry Yatch

Best advice for new leaders in 10 words or less.
A strong team determines your success as a leader.

John has 26 years of senior level project management experience on a variety of capital, TI, and development projects. His portfolio includes projects in the life sciences, educational, institutional, residential, commercial, and retail sectors. John’s expertise spans all phases of the development process including project definition, master planning, permitting, design, and construction administration.