2024 Women in CRE: Libby Murphy, Suffolk

What recent project, transaction, or accomplishment are you most proud of? A recent project that I’m extremely proud of is 245 Beacon St. at Boston College, a 156,500 s/f academic building housing the school’s growing research and science programs that was completed in 2021. A $150 million project, 245 Beacon St. was my first project of that magnitude and represented the largest single investment in the sciences at Boston College. I was privileged to manage a Suffolk team of 15 that included six women. It was one of the most collaborative projects that I’ve ever been involved with due to partnerships with the Boston College and Payette teams. 

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to enter commercial real estate? First and foremost, build your network, and then don’t hesitate to lean on your network. I lean on my amazing network of women peers, mentors, and young professionals daily. It’s important to become involved in groups that support women in CRE and provide networking opportunities; I have fostered meaningful relationships with women through Suffolk’s Women Who Build Business Resource Group, external networking events like CREW and PWC, and supporting girls interested in STEM through Suffolk’s partnership with Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. And PLEASE don’t forget to hold the door open for the women climbing the ladder behind you.

Why should this nominee be recognized in our Women in Commercial Real Estate Spotlight?
“In a historically male-dominated industry, Libby has been a trailblazer throughout her career journey, all while providing meaningful professional opportunities and leadership to women on her project teams. To say that Libby is passionate about empowering women in construction is an understatement. A founding member and Co-Captain of Suffolk’s Women Who Build Business Resource Group, Libby provides invaluable mentorship and professional development opportunities to nearly 200 women in Suffolk’s Northeast region, priding herself on an open-door policy that has allowed multiple women to lean on Libby for support as they navigate career and personal challenges.” - Matthew Arsenault, External Communications & PR Associate at Suffolk.