2023 Women in CRE: Ally Riley, Skanska Commercial Development US - Boston

What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? My proudest achievement is the intricate planning and design of the Longwood Place master plan development. This five-building transformative development includes 1.7 million s/f of lab, commercial and residential space along with 2.6 acres of open space. This development, along with the construction of the Living and Learning Center on Simmon’s academic campus, is a critical component to Simmons University’s ‘One Simmons Initiative’ to consolidate all the university’s facilities and advance their mission.

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight? “Ally is the shining example of a leader and manager for not only women in the CRE industry, but for all her colleagues at Skanska. She is an action-oriented strategic thinker who is managing one of the most complex real estate developments in the entire city, Longwood Place.” - Russell DeMartino, Executive Vice President of Skanska USA Commercial Development in Boston.

What are the most important factors women in your industry should consider when choosing a firm to build their career with? The most important factors are workplace culture and seeing women lead and being supported by their team. I believe my success is in part because I have chosen organizations that prioritize DEI efforts, value diverse perspectives, and allow me to use my strengths to create value for the company.

Who inspires you most? What qualities do they possess that inspire you? My father inspires me the most. He is hard working, determined, and always learning. Most importantly, his life goal is to provide a better life for my mom and me. He is my go-to person if I need to make a life decision or when I have a crisis.