Team

As the Chief Operating Officer, for Whitman Family Development, Benjamin Elias focuses on the operations, including the construction and financial impact of development and leasing decisions. Benjamin uses his knowledge and experience in finance, operations, and real estate to further elevate Whitman Family Development’s position in the competitive landscape. Based in Miami Beach, Benjamin is responsible for the financial models, forecasts, and qualitative analyses used to determine the feasibility and sustainability of existing and potential opportunities.

Prior to joining Whitman Family Development, Benjamin served as Director of Finance and Operations for Del Toro Shoes where he helped direct strategic growth and operational planning, lead real estate decision-making, and revamped the day-to-day business practices and systems for the company. Previously, he served as Associate for a Family Office in Coral Gables where he assisted the Principals with the management, maintenance, and leasing of a $20 million portfolio of residential, retail, and office assets. Having grown up in the home-building industry, Benjamin gained his earliest real estate experiences managing projects for Elias Management and Construction in Palm Beach, Florida. 

Benjamin graduated Valedictorian when he earned his Master of Business Administration from the University of Miami in 2011, where he was also honored with the Excellence in Leadership Award. During his studies, Benjamin interned with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami, where he further honed his knowledge of real estate and its impact on the fabric of communities. Benjamin also holds two Bachelor of Science degrees, one in Entrepreneurship and the other in Marketing and Management, both from Florida State University, where he graduated in 2009.