Annual list highlights developers, designers and dealmakers driving Boston’s growth and transformation
BOSTON, April 2026 — Boston magazine’s 2026 list of the 150 Most Influential Bostonians underscores the outsized role real estate continues to play in shaping the region, with 10 leaders from across development, construction, design and brokerage earning recognition.
Together, these executives are not only delivering major projects but also influencing how Boston evolves—through housing production, mixed-use placemaking, capital markets activity and innovation in construction and design.
At No. 18, John Fish stands out as one of the most powerful figures in the industry. As chairman and CEO of Suffolk Construction, Fish oversees a $10 billion enterprise with more than 3,000 employees and a growing national footprint. Beyond high-profile projects in Boston and across the U.S., Suffolk is investing heavily in technology, including a $50 million commitment to artificial intelligence and the launch of an AI Center in Roxbury—positioning the firm at the forefront of construction innovation.
Ranked No. 23, Jeremy Sclar continues to expand WS Development’s influence across the region. After helping reshape the Seaport District, Sclar is now focused on Fenway Corners, a $1.6 billion mixed-use development that will introduce office, residential and retail space alongside new public open areas.
The project reflects a broader strategy of creating dense, experience-driven urban environments.
Thomas N. O’Brien remains a key player in Boston’s largest redevelopment efforts through his leadership of HYM Investment Group. The firm’s work at Suffolk Downs—where thousands of housing units are planned—represents one of the most ambitious development projects in the city’s history. O’Brien’s deep ties to both the public and private sectors continue to shape major planning conversations.
At No. 33, Stephen Davis is steering The Davis Companies into its next phase of growth. With billions invested across office, lab, residential and retail properties, the firm is actively expanding its footprint, including recent acquisitions in Fort Point and new mixed-use developments in emerging submarkets like Everett.
The influence of Peter Palandjian (No. 36) extends across a vast portfolio of more than 36 million square feet through Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation. Alongside him, Eliza Dushku has built a second career in mental health advocacy, with the pair contributing significantly to philanthropic efforts in Boston, particularly in healthcare and veterans’ services.
Further shaping the city’s development pipeline is Steve Samuels (No. 66), whose firm Samuels & Associates has played a defining role in the transformation of Fenway. From the recently opened Lyrik Back Bay to the preservation of Time Out Market, Samuels continues to blend large-scale development with community-oriented retail and dining concepts.
Longtime industry figure Kevin Phelan (No. 95) of Colliers represents a different kind of influence—one built over decades of relationships. Known for convening key players across the industry, Phelan has helped facilitate deals, mentor emerging professionals and quietly shape Boston’s commercial real estate ecosystem.
Design also plays a central role in this year’s list. Elizabeth Lowrey (No. 96) of Elkus Manfredi Architects continues to lead
major interior architecture projects, including cutting-edge lab and office environments. Meanwhile, Reetika Vijay (No. 147) of IA Interior Architects is helping define the future of workplace design, with projects like the CarGurus headquarters reflecting evolving expectations around flexibility and collaboration.
Rounding out the group, Sal Lupoli (No. 137) of Lupoli Companies continues to expand development in the Merrimack Valley, bringing investment and mixed-use projects to communities that have historically seen less large-scale development.
Collectively, these leaders illustrate how real estate remains deeply intertwined with Boston’s economic growth, neighborhood identity and long-term planning—at a moment when the region faces both significant opportunity and complex challenges around housing, infrastructure and sustainability.
Top five overall on the 2026 list:
- Drake Maye, quarterback for the New England Patriots
- Mike Vrabel, head coach of the New England Patriots
- Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts
- Bob Rivers, executive chair of Eastern Bank
- Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston
