Jessica Johnson Spotlight March 2025
How did your MBA from CIMBA shape your approach to entrepreneurship and founding Solid Realty Group? Are there specific skills or experiences from the program that you still apply today in running your business?
My MBA from CIMBA had a profound impact on my approach to entrepreneurship and founding Solid Realty Group. Each class was thoughtfully designed to foster an entrepreneurial mindset and provide the tools needed to succeed in this field. The program emphasized experiential learning, which helped me develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills under pressure.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was the relationships I built with my classmates. There were students from seven different countries represented, and working with such a diverse group taught me how to collaborate with and understand people from all walks of life. Diversity is truly at the heart of the CIMBA experience, and it’s something I carry with me in my business today.
The LIFE skills I gained during my time at CIMBA allowed me to become fully engaged with what I bring to the world, what I choose to give back to the world, and how my behaviors and actions define who I am. Learning to lead with love instead of judgment was a profound life experience that continues to shape how I interact with others, both personally and professionally.
I’ve also created lifelong relationships with friends from the program, which continue to enrich my life. For instance, I had the honor of standing in a wedding for my classmate Mitja, which speaks to the depth of the connections I made during that time. These relationships, coupled with the practical and strategic skills I gained, continue to shape how I run Solid Realty Group and approach entrepreneurship every day.
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In your role as a founding partner at Solid Realty Group, you have a wealth of experience in the real estate industry. What trends or shifts do you see happening in the real estate market today, and how are you positioning your company to adapt to these changes?
In the real estate industry, I’ve seen significant shifts, particularly with the rise of technology. Tools like virtual tours, blockchain for property transactions, and AI-driven market analysis are transforming how we operate. There’s also a growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient properties, as more clients prioritize environmental considerations in their investments.
At Solid Realty Group, we’re staying ahead by embracing PropTech solutions to streamline processes and enhance the client experience. We’re also positioning ourselves as leaders in sustainability by gaining expertise in green building certifications and sustainable developments. I make it a priority to stay attuned to demographic trends, such as the preferences of Millennials and Gen Z, to ensure our offerings meet the evolving needs of our clients.
I’ve noticed that a lot of people in those age groups focus on renting because it’s just more realistic. Flexibility is a huge factor—being able to move for work or just to experience a new city without being tied down is really important. And when it comes to renting, it’s not just about the space itself anymore. People want more—smart home features, fitness centers, co-working spaces... those extras really matter.
I also see that a lot of them are willing to give up space for location. Personally, I’d much rather live in a smaller place or go back to Italy, that’s in a walkable neighborhood, close to work, good restaurants, and things to do, rather than a bigger place out in the suburbs. And then add in sustainability! That’s a big one. Energy-efficient homes, solar panels, eco-friendly materials—that really resonates with me and with others in our generation.
I’ve even seen the appeal of co-living setups—sharing space with others to save money and build a little community. It’s not for everyone, but I get why it works for some people trying to keep costs manageable while still having a decent place to live.
It’s frustrating, though, especially when I think about how much easier it seemed for older generations to buy a home. But I do think the market is starting to catch on to what we’re looking for.
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Looking back at your journey from CIMBA MBA to founding a business and working in executive leadership, what advice would you give to current CIMBA students or alumni who aspire to launch their own ventures or move into executive roles?
If I could offer advice to current CIMBA students or alumni, it would be to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Entrepreneurship is full of risks, but with careful planning, persistence, and a focus on solving real-world problems, you can build something meaningful. Take full advantage of the network and relationships you’re building now—they can provide invaluable guidance and opportunities later on.
For those aiming for executive roles, I’d stress the importance of emotional intelligence and leading with empathy. Strong communication skills and the ability to inspire your team will set you apart. The global perspective you gain from CIMBA will be one of your greatest assets in making informed and well-rounded decisions.
Above all, stay true to your values. There will be challenges along the way, but resilience and a clear sense of purpose will help you overcome them and succeed as both a leader and an entrepreneur.
