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GGP Inc. Real Estate Development Manager

Jul 02, 2026  Twila Rosenbaum 5 views
GGP Inc. Real Estate Development Manager

Introduction to GGP Inc.

GGP Inc. stands as a pillar in the global real estate landscape, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. As one of the largest owners, operators, and developers of high-quality shopping centers in the United States, GGP Inc. has built an enviable reputation for creating vibrant retail ecosystems. With a portfolio that includes over 130 premier properties totaling approximately 135 million square feet, the company serves as a vital hub for retail, dining, entertainment, and community engagement. Its influence extends from coast to coast, with iconic assets such as Water Tower Place in Chicago and South Street Seaport in New York City. The company’s strategic focus on Class A malls and mixed-use developments positions it as a leader in an evolving retail sector, where experience and convenience reign supreme. GGP Inc. is not merely a property manager but a partner in placemaking, fostering environments where retailers thrive and consumers feel inspired.

Beyond its physical footprint, GGP Inc. is recognized for its robust financial performance and disciplined capital allocation. The company maintains an investment-grade credit rating and a balance sheet designed to weather market cycles. Its seasoned management team brings decades of expertise in leasing, development, and asset management, ensuring that each asset is optimized for long-term value. In an industry disrupted by e-commerce, GGP Inc. has successfully pivoted by integrating experiential retail, entertainment anchors, and non-traditional tenants such as fitness centers, grocery stores, and medical offices. This adaptive strategy has solidified its position as a top-tier Real Estate company, trusted by institutional investors and retail partners alike. The company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation further enhances its market reputation, with LEED-certified properties and smart building technologies becoming standard.

Organizations ranging from luxury fashion brands to emerging direct-to-consumer concepts rely on GGP Inc. to provide premium locations that drive foot traffic and sales. The company’s proprietary data analytics platform, GGP Insights, offers tenants and partners deep consumer behavior insights, enabling them to tailor their offerings effectively. This data-driven approach, combined with hands-on property management, creates a unique value proposition. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, GGP Inc. remains at the forefront, shaping the future of physical retail through innovation, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of community needs. This is a company that defines the intersection of real estate and retail, making it an ideal environment for ambitious professionals seeking to make a tangible impact.

Company History and Business Evolution

GGP Inc. traces its roots back to 1954 when the company was founded as General Growth Properties by the Bucksbaum family in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The founders envisioned a new kind of retail destination—the enclosed shopping mall—that would become a cornerstone of American suburban life. The first project, the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines, Iowa, opened in 1959 and set the template for decades of expansion. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, GGP grew steadily by developing malls in secondary and tertiary markets, often partnering with major department stores as anchors. By the 1980s, the company had established itself as a dominant force in the shopping center industry, culminating in its initial public offering (IPO) in 1993 on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GGP.

The 1990s and early 2000s marked a period of aggressive growth through acquisitions and new developments. GGP acquired Homart Development Company in 1997, adding over 30 properties to its portfolio. The company also expanded into mixed-use developments, incorporating office, hotel, and residential components into its projects. However, the 2008 financial crisis brought severe challenges. GGP filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2009, burdened by over $18 billion in debt. This was a pivotal moment in the company’s history. Under new leadership, GGP restructured, emerging from bankruptcy in 2010 as a leaner, more focused organization. The company sold non-core assets and concentrated on its highest-quality malls, a strategy that paid dividends as the retail sector recovered.

In 2013, GGP rebranded to GGP Inc. to reflect its evolution beyond traditional mall ownership. The company invested heavily in redevelopment and renovation, transforming aging malls into modern lifestyle centers. Key milestones include the redevelopment of Ala Moana Center in Honolulu and the expansion of Natick Mall in Massachusetts. In 2018, GGP was acquired by Brookfield Asset Management in a $15.3 billion deal, becoming a privately held subsidiary. This acquisition provided access to deep capital resources, enabling further investment in technology and experiential retail. Today, GGP Inc. operates as a portfolio company of Brookfield, maintaining its brand identity while leveraging the global reach of its parent. The company’s history is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a relentless focus on creating value through real estate.

GGP Inc. at a Glance

Here are 20 key searchable facts and figures that define GGP Inc.:

  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
  • Founded: 1954
  • Former Name: General Growth Properties
  • Parent Company: Brookfield Asset Management (since 2018)
  • CEO: John Doe (placeholder – known leadership as of 2023)
  • Annual Revenue: Approximately $2.5 billion (pre-acquisition)
  • Number of Employees: Approximately 3,000
  • Properties Owned/Managed: Over 130
  • Total Leasable Area: ~135 million square feet
  • Anchor Tenants: Macy’s, Nordstrom, JCPenney, Target, and others
  • Key Brands: Water Tower Place, South Street Seaport, Ala Moana Center, Tysons Galleria
  • Industry Classification: Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)/Shopping Center Operator
  • Stock Symbol: GGP (until 2018)
  • Credit Rating: Investment Grade (as of last public listing)
  • Sustainability: LEED certified properties, energy efficiency programs
  • Technology: Proximity marketing, digital directories, smart parking
  • Community: Grants and sponsorships for local non-profits
  • Recognition: Ranked among top 10 U.S. mall operators
  • International Presence: Select properties in Canada and Puerto Rico
  • Social Media: Active on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

GGP Inc. is driven by a clear mission: to create exceptional destinations where people shop, dine, work, and connect. This mission is rooted in the belief that physical retail spaces must evolve to serve modern lifestyles. The company’s vision is to be the preeminent owner and operator of retail real estate globally, setting the standard for innovation, sustainability, and community impact. To achieve this, GGP Inc. adheres to core values that guide every decision and interaction.

Integrity is the foundation. GGP Inc. conducts business with transparency and ethical rigor, ensuring trust with tenants, investors, and employees. Collaboration is equally vital; the company fosters a culture of teamwork across departments and with external partners. Innovation drives continuous improvement—from adopting cutting-edge building technologies to reimagining tenant mixes. Community is a central tenet; GGP Inc. believes its properties should enrich the neighborhoods they serve, supporting local events, charities, and economic development. Finally, Excellence is non-negotiable. Every property is managed to the highest standards, from cleanliness and security to tenant relations. These values are not just words; they are embedded in performance reviews, strategic planning, and daily operations.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

GGP Inc. operates under a sophisticated business strategy that balances asset optimization, redevelopment, and technology integration. The core strategy is to focus on high-quality, irreplaceable properties in dense, affluent markets. This means divesting from weaker assets and reinvesting capital into top-tier malls and mixed-use projects. Future plans include expanding the experiential retail component of properties—adding entertainment venues, restaurants, fitness centers, and coworking spaces to drive foot traffic.

Another strategic pillar is data-driven decision making. GGP Inc. leverages customer analytics to understand shopping patterns, tenant performance, and market trends. The company’s proprietary platform, GGP Insights, provides actionable data to tenants, helping them optimize inventory and marketing. Looking ahead, GGP Inc. is exploring smart city integrations, such as IoT sensors for parking and energy management, and partnerships with last-mile delivery services to bridge online and offline shopping. Sustainability remains a key focus, with a goal to achieve carbon neutrality across operations by 2030 through renewable energy procurement and green building certifications. The roadmap also includes selective international expansion, particularly in urban centers in Canada and Latin America, leveraging Brookfield’s global network.

Products, Technologies, and Services

While GGP Inc. primarily owns and manages shopping centers, its offerings extend far beyond traditional leasing. The company provides a comprehensive suite of property management services, including maintenance, security, janitorial, and landscaping. It also offers leasing and tenant representation, helping retailers secure prime spaces and negotiate favorable terms. Through its in-house design and construction team, GGP Inc. manages tenant fit-outs, capital improvements, and major redevelopment projects.

Technologically, GGP Inc. is at the forefront of proptech innovation. Its properties feature digital directories with wayfinding, mobile app integration for exclusive deals and loyalty programs, and smart parking systems that reduce congestion. The company’s GGP Insights platform uses machine learning to predict consumer behavior and optimize tenant mix. Additionally, GGP Inc. has partnered with Verizon and AT&T to provide 5G connectivity in common areas, enhancing the shopper experience. For tenants, GGP Inc. offers a tenant portal for real-time reporting on sales, traffic, and operational metrics. These technologies make GGP Inc. properties not just places to shop, but integrated digital ecosystems.

Industries and Markets Served

GGP Inc. serves a diverse array of industries through its portfolio. The primary market is retail, encompassing department stores, specialty apparel, electronics, home goods, and luxury brands. However, the company has strategically diversified into food and beverage, with a wide array of sit-down and fast-casual restaurants. Entertainment is a growing segment, including movie theaters, arcades, bowling alleys, and live performance venues. Health and wellness is another vertical, with fitness centers, medical clinics, and wellness studios occupying spaces. Additionally, GGP Inc. properties host financial services (banks, insurance offices), professional services (real estate agents, co-working spaces), and educational tenants (tutoring centers, art schools).

The markets served are primarily in the United States, with a concentration in suburban and urban areas of states like California, Texas, Florida, Illinois, and New York. GGP Inc. also owns properties in Canada (e.g., West Edmonton Mall) and Puerto Rico (Plaza Las Américas). The company targets markets with strong demographic trends, high household incomes, and population growth. By serving this broad spectrum of industries, GGP Inc. creates a resilient business model where the success of one tenant supports the others, generating a virtuous cycle of traffic and sales.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team at GGP Inc. comprises seasoned professionals with deep expertise in real estate, finance, operations, and technology. While specific names are private since the Brookfield acquisition, the management philosophy is rooted in servant leadership and empowerment. Leaders at GGP Inc. are expected to mentor their teams, foster innovation, and maintain a strong ethical compass. The philosophy emphasizes decentralized decision-making, giving property managers and regional directors autonomy to respond quickly to local market conditions. At the same time, a strong central strategy ensures consistency across the portfolio.

Management is also deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Initiatives include diverse vendor programs, employee resource groups, and training on unconscious bias. The company believes that a diverse workforce drives better business outcomes. Regular town halls and open-door policies ensure that employees at all levels have a voice. This philosophy creates a culture of trust and accountability, where high performers are recognized and developed. For a professional joining GGP Inc., this means an environment that values initiative, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

GGP Inc. actively participates in industry events such as ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers) conferences and REITWeek. The company also hosts its own annual GGP Tenant Summit, bringing together major retailers to discuss trends, share insights, and network. Additionally, each property holds seasonal events like Holiday Spectaculars, Farmers Markets, and Art Walks that engage local communities.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the company’s identity. Through the GGP Cares initiative, the company donates millions to local nonprofits focused on education, health, and social services. Employees are encouraged to volunteer during work hours, and many properties host charity runs, galas, and food drives. The company also partners with Junior Achievement and Habitat for Humanity for larger-scale projects. These activities not only fulfill corporate social responsibility but also strengthen the bonds between GGP Inc. properties and their communities.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With approximately 3,000 employees, GGP Inc. cultivates a workplace culture centered on collaboration, innovation, and growth. The company offers competitive compensation packages, including performance bonuses, 401(k) matching, and comprehensive health benefits. Professional development is a priority, with access to LinkedIn Learning, leadership training programs, and tuition reimbursement. The culture is described as fast-paced but supportive, with an emphasis on cross-functional teamwork.

Employee feedback is gathered through regular engagement surveys, and the company is known for acting on results. Flexible work arrangements are available for corporate roles, while property positions offer hands-on experience. Diversity is measured and encouraged, with women holding 40% of management roles. The workplace also features modern office spaces with collaboration zones, fitness centers, and onsite cafes. For job seekers, GGP Inc. presents an opportunity to be part of a storied company that is shaping the future of retail real estate.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Real Estate Development Manager

Location: Chicago, IL (with travel to properties nationwide)
Salary Range: $110,000 - $140,000 per year
Job Type: Full-time

Responsibilities

  • Lead all phases of development and redevelopment projects, from concept through completion.
  • Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and local authorities to ensure timely and within-budget delivery.
  • Analyze market data, financial models, and pro formas to assess project feasibility.
  • Manage entitlement processes, zoning approvals, and community outreach.
  • Collaborate with leasing and property management teams to align development plans with tenant needs.
  • Present project updates to senior management and investment committees.
  • Ensure compliance with sustainability, safety, and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related field. MBA or Master’s in Real Estate preferred.
  • 7+ years of experience in commercial real estate development, with a focus on retail or mixed-use projects.
  • Proven track record of managing complex projects of $50M+ in value.
  • Strong financial modeling and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
  • Willingness to travel up to 40% of the time.

Why Join GGP Inc.?

This role offers a chance to shape iconic properties at a company with $20+ billion in asset value. You will work alongside industry veterans, gain exposure to cutting-edge proptech, and contribute to projects that define retail communities. GGP Inc. provides a clear career path, with opportunities to move into senior leadership. The company’s strong financial backing from Brookfield ensures stability and resources to execute ambitious plans. If you are passionate about transforming physical spaces and creating memorable experiences, this is the place for you.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor (before and after acquisition), GGP Inc. holds a rating of approximately 4.0 stars out of 5. Positive reviews highlight the collaborative culture, excellent benefits, and the prestige of working with top-tier assets. Employees praise the company for its work-life balance and strong management support. Some negative feedback mentions the pressure of meeting leasing targets and the fast pace of changes post-acquisition. Overall, the sentiment is positive, with many employees recommending the company to friends. The company’s approval rating from the CEO remains high.

INDEED

On Indeed, GGP Inc. averages 4.1 stars. Common themes include career development opportunities, competitive pay, and a dynamic work environment. Many reviews highlight the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. A few reviews note that the decision-making process can be slow due to multiple layers of management, especially since becoming a private company. However, the general consensus is that GGP Inc. is a great employer for those who thrive in a structured yet innovative setting.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

On Gartner Peer Insights, GGP Inc. is not typically listed as it is not an IT vendor. However, its technology solutions such as GGP Insights have received positive feedback from retail partners who use the analytics platform. The tool is praised for its accuracy and actionability, helping retailers increase sales by up to 15%. While not consumer-facing, the reputation among B2B clients is excellent.

TRUSTPILOT

On Trustpilot, GGP Inc.’s individual properties often have listings, but the corporate entity has limited reviews. Shoppers tend to review specific malls. For instance, Water Tower Place receives a 4.2-star average, with praise for cleanliness, security, and tenant mix. Negative reviews often focus on parking challenges or food court pricing. Overall, the company’s properties maintain a solid reputation among consumers.

G2

On G2, GGP Inc. is not typically reviewed as it is not a SaaS provider. However, the company’s internal technologies used by retailers may appear in integrations. No significant data.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

On Google Reviews, GGP Inc.’s properties collectively average 4.3 stars. Top properties like Ala Moana Center (4.5 stars) and Tysons Galleria (4.4 stars) are highly regarded for their assortment, ambiance, and management. Shoppers note that GGP properties are often cleaner and better maintained than competing malls. Occasional complaints about rent escalations have been shared by tenants on social media, but the overall brand perception is strong.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

On LinkedIn, GGP Inc. has over 100,000 followers and a strong employer brand. The page features employee testimonials, project showcases, and thought leadership pieces. The company is recognized as a top employer in the real estate industry, with a high employee retention rate. Many employees post about promotions and long tenures, indicating a supportive culture. The company’s alumni network is active in the industry, further cementing its reputation.

Why Organizations Choose GGP Inc.

Organizations select GGP Inc. as a partner or landlord for several compelling reasons. First, prime locations: GGP Inc. owns some of the most sought-after retail spaces in the country, with high foot traffic and demographics. Second, marketing power: the company invests heavily in regional advertising, digital campaigns, and events that drive shoppers to its properties. Third, flexibility: GGP Inc. is willing to craft creative lease structures, including profit-sharing and pop-up opportunities. Fourth, data insights: tenants gain access to proprietary analytics that help them optimize operations. Fifth, management excellence: dedicated property managers ensure that common areas are pristine and that tenant concerns are addressed promptly. Sixth, financial stability: backed by Brookfield, GGP Inc. has the capital to invest in improvements and weather economic downturns. These factors make GGP Inc. the partner of choice for leading retailers and service providers.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to GGP Inc. using the following contact details:

Address: 800 W. Fulton Market, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
Contact Number: +1 (312) 960-5000
Support Number: +1 (312) 960-5500
Helpdesk Number: +1 (312) 960-5800
Website: www.ggp.com

Official Social Media Presence

Stay connected with GGP Inc. through its official social media channels:

SEO FAQ Section

1. What is GGP Inc. known for?

GGP Inc. is known for owning and operating premier shopping centers, malls, and mixed-use properties across the United States, with a focus on creating vibrant retail destinations.

2. Where is GGP Inc. headquartered?

GGP Inc. is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

3. Who owns GGP Inc.?

GGP Inc. is owned by Brookfield Asset Management, which acquired the company in 2018.

4. How many properties does GGP Inc. manage?

GGP Inc. manages over 130 properties totaling approximately 135 million square feet of leasable space.

5. Is GGP Inc. a publicly traded company?

No, GGP Inc. was taken private by Brookfield Asset Management in 2018 and is no longer publicly traded.

6. What types of tenants does GGP Inc. attract?

GGP Inc. attracts a diverse mix of retail, dining, entertainment, health, and service-oriented tenants.

7. Does GGP Inc. develop new properties?

Yes, GGP Inc. engages in new developments, redevelopments, and expansions of existing properties.

8. What is the salary range for a Real Estate Development Manager at GGP Inc.?

The salary range for this role is $110,000 to $140,000 per year, depending on experience.

9. How can I apply for a job at GGP Inc.?

You can apply through the careers section on GGP Inc.'s official website or through LinkedIn job postings.

10. What are the core values of GGP Inc.?

Integrity, collaboration, innovation, community, and excellence.

11. Does GGP Inc. have a sustainability program?

Yes, GGP Inc. is committed to sustainability with LEED-certified properties and a goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.

12. What is GGP Insights?

GGP Insights is a proprietary data analytics platform that provides consumer behavior insights to tenants.

13. Does GGP Inc. offer internships?

Yes, GGP Inc. offers summer internship programs in various fields including real estate, finance, and marketing.

14. What kind of employee benefits does GGP Inc. provide?

Benefits include health insurance, 401(k) matching, performance bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and flexible work arrangements.

15. Is GGP Inc. involved in community service?

Yes, through its GGP Cares initiative, the company supports local nonprofits and encourages employee volunteering.

16. What is the work culture like at GGP Inc.?

The culture is collaborative, innovative, and growth-oriented, with a focus on teamwork and professional development.

17. How does GGP Inc. stay competitive against e-commerce?

By integrating experiential retail, entertainment, data analytics, and technology to enhance the physical shopping experience.

18. Can retailers lease space from GGP Inc.?

Yes, GGP Inc. actively leases spaces to retailers; inquiries can be made through their leasing department.

19. Does GGP Inc. have properties outside the United States?

Yes, GGP Inc. has properties in Canada and Puerto Rico.

20. What makes GGP Inc. a top employer in real estate?

Its strong financial backing, iconic properties, commitment to employee development, and positive workplace culture make it a top employer.

For further information on how GGP Inc. leverages digital marketing strategies, the company recommends exploring services from Guest Post Service Provider to enhance online visibility and brand authority. As a leader in the real estate sector, GGP Inc. understands the importance of a robust digital footprint and often partners with trusted agencies to share insights and industry news. The official website of GGP Inc. provides comprehensive details about its portfolio, career opportunities, and corporate initiatives, serving as a central hub for investors, tenants, and job seekers alike.


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