Mindy McIlroy, President of TerraNova Corp.

Inside the Mind of Miami’s Retail Visionary

Commercial Property Executive, by Corina Stef – March 24th, 2023
 

Terranova President Mindy McIlroy on pushing boundaries in the retail industry.

  As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, Commercial Property Executive is bringing out the story of another inspirational female leader in commercial real estate.

Mindy McIlroy is a visionary in the restaurant and retail sector, currently serving as the president of Terranova Corp. in South Florida. With her keen eye for spotting trends and a deep passion for creating unique experiences for customers, she has made a significant impact on Miami’s retail and dining scene. She is the mastermind behind the successful leasing of a variety of tenants on two of the metro’s most iconic roads, Lincoln Road in Miami Beach and Miracle Mile in Coral Gables.

McIlroy’s ability to visualize, research and develop innovative new concepts has set her apart as a true leader in the retail industry. One of her most notable achievements is The Lincoln Eatery, a unique food hall venue designed by global architecture firm Arquitectonica. The space exemplifies McIlroy’s ingenuity by bringing together a variety of fast-casual, artisan and grab-and-go concepts in a single location, catering to foodies, locals, travelers and anyone looking to have a good time in Miami Beach.

With her impressive track record and broad expertise, she continues to push the boundaries of retail and dining, positioning Terranova as a leading force in Miami’s bustling retail and restaurant markets. In the interview below, she reveals all about her journey so far.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

Not So Lonely At The Top: Why Miami Real Estate Is ‘Very Much Ahead’ On Elevating Women Leaders

BISNOW  – March 8, 2023

Women don’t rise to leadership roles by accident or coincidence — just like their lack of opportunities in most industries and cities isn’t an accident. Beth Azor and Trish Blasi, the founder of Borghese Investments, both came up at Terranova Group, where many of Miami’s female leaders have worked over the years.

Azor, the founder of Azor Advisory Services, credited Terranova Group founder Stephen Bittel as a mentor who made sure she had every opportunity to succeed.

“Why he was so amazing was anything you wanted to do, he said I’ll help you,” Azor said. “He’s the one who helped me go to a bank and co-signed a loan to help me invest in my first commercial real estate property. I wouldn’t have been in investment today without that. There was no glass ceiling for him. He ran a meritocracy.”

Blasi was Terranova’s president before leaving to found her own firm. Its president today, Mindy McIlroy, got her start at the company as an executive assistant in 1997.

“I had no plans to be involved in the real estate business, but the company president approached me and asked if I would consider transferring to a sales role in the leasing department. It seemed like a good idea at the time and has proven to be the best decision I have ever made,” she wrote in an email. “Every day I give thanks for saying ‘Yes’ to the opportunity.”

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

Stephen Bittel, Founder & Chairman of TerraNova Corp.

Stephen Bittel’s Gift Propels Division of Movement Disorders’ Search for Parkinson’s Disease Cure

UMHealth.org, by Stacey Bomser – February 16, 2023

As one of South Florida’s most successful commercial real estate developers, Stephen Bittel has accomplished projects that have helped build the local landscape.The latest endeavor of the founder and chair of Terranova Corporation will have an even greater impact on the community — and the world. Bittel’s $1 million gift to the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Movement Disorders Division in the Department of Neurology promises to accelerate research into a cure for Parkinson’s disease and improve developments in patient care.


Advancing Parkinson’s research and care is a cause that has been near and dear to the entrepreneur’s heart ever since the president of his company, Mindy McIlroy, was diagnosed in 2014. It came as a shock to them both, as she did not fit the typical patient profile.

While McIlroy processed this life-changing news, Bittel sprang into action. He called his friend John Kozyak, who was then chair of the Parkinson’s Foundation. Within days, Bittel and McIlroy were on an airplane to see one of the leading neurologists in the field.

With the diagnosis confirmed and a treatment plan in place, the two turned their attention to supporting the Parkinson’s Foundation. McIlroy started by creating a Moving Day team to raise funds, with Bittel pledging to match donations. As McIlroy’s involvement grew, she assumed leadership positions within the charity, and currently serves on its board of directors.

Independently, Bittel helped fund numerous Parkinson’s Foundation Centers of Excellence around the country and globally. To receive this designation, medical centers must meet rigorous care, clinical research, professional training, community education, and outreach criteria.

The Miller School’s Movement Disorders Division received designation as a Center of Excellence from the Parkinson’s Foundation in 2007.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL ARTICLE