2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Elizabeth Stanbrook, The Washington Trust Company

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you? I have been fortunate to have several mentors shape my career, and to have an active support network through CREW Boston and the Greater Boston Real Estate Board RE&FA Emerging Leaders program. The CRE community in Greater Boston is small but robust with talent. Credibility goes a long way in this business, so I’ve learned to invest in relationships and focus on being nimble and efficient when delivering results.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of commercial real estate? In an era where convenience can be replicated online, the human experience cannot. The rise in “Retailtainment” is something I am excited to see shape the way investors, tenants, and consumers continue to think about retail space. The idea that “Retail isn’t dead – bad retail is dead,” suggests that consumers want to see a shift away from outdated concepts to thoughtfully-designed, experience-driven spaces. I expect to see greater emphasis on flexibility and experiential use in commercial real estate leasing and financing in the future.

What inspired you to pursue a career in commercial real estate, and what path brought you to your current role? My interest in real estate began with looking at residential listings and examining how they were valued and priced. I learned about commercial real estate in a college finance course and began working in the field after graduation. I quickly saw how lending can have a lasting impact on communities. In an increasingly virtual world, it is satisfying to see real, physical results in the neighborhoods we serve. I enjoy the challenge that structuring deals provides and since no two deals are alike, the work is always interesting.