Island Capital Group LLC

Background

Island Capital Group LLC is a prominent international real estate merchant bank headquartered in New York City. Established in 2003, the firm specializes in a comprehensive range of real estate-related activities, including principal investment, investment management, financial advisory, and consulting services. With over three decades of experience, Island Capital leverages its deep industry knowledge and financial expertise to identify and capitalize on innovative and profitable investments globally.

Key Strategic Focus

Island Capital's strategic focus encompasses:

Investment Management: The firm is an industry leader in distressed and value-focused real estate investing, managing approximately $4.6 billion in assets through various investment vehicles.

Advisory Services: Island Capital provides operational turnaround, restructuring, capital raising, and other advisory services, with expertise in creating value across more than $250 billion of complex distressed transactions.

Strategic Partnerships: Leveraging its extensive experience as owners, operators, investors, and lenders, the firm enhances value for its strategic partners through a comprehensive understanding of real estate markets.

Financials and Funding

Island Capital Group manages over $5 billion in assets under management through a variety of real estate and special situations strategies. The firm has been involved in financial restructurings totaling $250 billion and handles approximately $20 billion in commercial real estate transaction volume annually.

Pipeline Development

Island Capital's investment portfolio includes significant acquisitions such as the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel. In April 2022, in partnership with MCR, the firm acquired this iconic 1,780-room hotel for $373 million, marking a substantial investment in New York City's hospitality industry.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Island Capital distinguishes itself through:

Proprietary Technologies: The firm utilizes advanced financial modeling and analytics to assess and manage real estate investments effectively.

Scientific Methodologies: Employing comprehensive due diligence processes, Island Capital integrates market research, risk assessment, and financial analysis to inform investment decisions.

Leadership Team

Andrew L. Farkas: Founder, Managing Member, Chairman, and CEO. Mr. Farkas has a distinguished career in real estate investment and management, having founded and operated numerous businesses. Under his leadership, Island Capital has grown to manage over $5 billion in assets.

Jeffrey Cohen: President & Executive Managing Director. Mr. Cohen brings extensive experience in real estate investment and management, contributing significantly to the firm's strategic initiatives.

Paul Hughson: Executive Managing Director & Chief Investment Officer. Mr. Hughson oversees the firm's investment strategies, leveraging his expertise in acquisitions and asset management.

Melissa Iorio: Executive Managing Director. Ms. Iorio joined Island Capital in March 2025, bringing a wealth of experience in real estate investment and management.

Kim Klever: Chief Operating Officer. Ms. Klever manages the firm's operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all departments.

Mark Lande: Senior Managing Director & Co-General Counsel. Mr. Lande provides legal oversight and strategic guidance on the firm's transactions and operations.

Marc Levy: Executive Managing Director. Mr. Levy plays a key role in the firm's investment banking and advisory services.

Robert Lieber: Executive Managing Director. Mr. Lieber contributes to the firm's strategic planning and investment initiatives.

Matthew Stern: Executive Managing Director. Mr. Stern focuses on investment banking and restructuring advisory services.

Geoffrey H. Woodward: Executive Managing Director. Mr. Woodward oversees various aspects of the firm's operations and strategic initiatives.

Leadership Changes

In March 2025, Island Capital appointed Melissa Iorio as Executive Managing Director, enhancing the firm's leadership team with her extensive experience in real estate investment and management.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics: The real estate investment and advisory industry is characterized by significant transaction volumes and complex financial structures. Island Capital's involvement in over $250 billion of financial restructurings and $20 billion in annual commercial real estate transactions underscores its substantial role in this dynamic market.

Competitor Analysis: Island Capital's competitors include firms such as DLB Capital, Financingforhotels, and Workingcapitalloans. These companies operate in similar sectors, offering real estate investment and advisory services. Island Capital differentiates itself through its extensive experience, comprehensive service offerings, and strategic partnerships.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Island Capital has established significant partnerships to strengthen its market position:

MCR: In April 2022, Island Capital partnered with MCR to acquire the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, demonstrating confidence in the recovery of New York City's hospitality industry.

C-III Capital Partners: A fully diversified asset management and commercial real estate services company under Island Capital's platform, striving to deliver superior long-term returns to investors.