Sandeep Mathrani, an Indian-American real estate executive, has carved an impressive path in the competitive world of real estate. As the former CEO and chairman of WeWork until his resignation on May 26, 2023, Mathrani’s career is a testament to his unwavering determination and visionary leadership.
His journey from Mumbai to the pinnacle of the real estate industry in the United States is nothing short of inspirational.
Early Life and Education of Sandeep Mathrani: Foundations of Excellence
Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Sandeep Mathrani’s early life was marked by ambition and a quest for excellence. He attended the prestigious Cathedral and John Connon School, where he laid the foundation for his future success. At the young age of 16, Mathrani emigrated alone to Philadelphia, USA, a move that demonstrated his courage and independence.
In 1983, Mathrani graduated with a bachelor’s degree in engineering from the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. His pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop there; in 1986, he obtained a master’s degree in Management Science from Stevens. His academic achievements, coupled with his inherent leadership qualities, set the stage for his illustrious career.
Mentorship and Early Career: Learning from the Best
Throughout his career, Sandeep Mathrani has been guided by three titans of the real estate industry: Bruce Flatt, Bruce Ratner, and Steven Roth. These mentors played a crucial role in shaping his approach to business and leadership.
Mathrani’s professional journey began to take shape when he joined Vornado Realty Trust, a prominent real estate investment trust owned by his mentor, Steven Roth. His tenure at Vornado provided him with invaluable experience and insights into the complexities of the real estate market.
Leadership at GGP: Steering Through Challenges
In 2011, Sandeep Mathrani took on the role of CEO at GGP Inc. at a critical juncture. The company was emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and Mathrani was tasked with steering it back to stability and growth.
His leadership was instrumental in revitalizing GGP, leading to its eventual acquisition by Brookfield Property Partners in 2018. This successful turnaround highlighted Mathrani’s strategic acumen and his ability to navigate challenging situations with finesse.
Brookfield Properties: A New Chapter of Success
Following the acquisition of GGP, Sandeep Mathrani joined Brookfield Properties as the CEO of its retail property management arm. His tenure at Brookfield from 2018 to 2020 further solidified his reputation as a dynamic leader capable of driving growth and innovation. His role as vice chairman of Brookfield Properties showcased his strategic vision and commitment to excellence.
Leading WeWork: A New Era of Transformation
In February 2020, Sandeep Mathrani was appointed as the CEO of WeWork, a company that had recently faced significant turmoil. The ouster of its founder, Adam Neumann, and the collapse of its IPO left WeWork in need of a strong and steady leader. Mathrani’s appointment marked a new era for the company.
Under Mathrani’s leadership, WeWork embarked on a journey of transformation. He focused on stabilizing the company’s finances, enhancing operational efficiency, and rebuilding its reputation. His strategic initiatives aimed at streamlining the business and restoring investor confidence were pivotal in steering WeWork towards a more sustainable future.