Lightstone Named a Top Work Environment for Second Year Running
Lightstone's Remarkable Recognition as a Best Place to Work
In an industry often dominated by bricks and mortar, Lightstone is redefining success by prioritizing its people. Recently, Crain's New York Business listed Lightstone among the top 40 Best Places to Work in New York City for 2024. This accolade is a testament to the company's commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace environment focused on employee satisfaction and development.
A Culture Built on Values
Lightstone's President, Mitchell Hochberg, articulated the company's ethos precisely: "We don't see culture as a perk—it's our foundation." This philosophy translates not just into words but action, as the firm continually strives to create a nurturing atmosphere where team members feel valued and empowered. The recognition doesn't stop at local acclaim; Lightstone's property management section, Beacon Management, ranked among the top 50 on Glassdoor's 2025 Best Places to Work in U.S. Small and Medium Businesses (SMB), boasting an impressive 4.3-star rating.
Employee First Approach
What makes Lightstone stand out? For starters, employees benefit from an array of services that contribute to both their professional and personal lives. Much more than standard benefits, Lightstone provides gourmet meals every day, hosts spontaneous social gatherings, and encourages work-life balance with summer Fridays.
Health and wellness are at the forefront of Lightstone’s mission. The company offers 24/7 nurse support, medical concierge services, and extensive mental health resources, including help with fertility matters. Employees also receive fitness reimbursements, CPR training, and access to fitness trackers to encourage a culture of wellness among peers. All these initiatives showcase an extraordinary commitment to employee health, far beyond the usual scope of workplace benefits.
Invest in Growth
At Lightstone, professional development is taken seriously. The company offers resources such as mentorship programs, tuition reimbursement, and leadership training—tools that cater to team members at all levels of their careers. This focus on personal growth rather than merely ticking boxes is what differentiates Lightstone from its competitors.
Kara Morett, Executive Vice President of Human Resources, shared her insights, stating, "Our incredible staff are the reason we are recognized on these highly-acclaimed lists annually—because we're investing in our people." This investment reflects a deep-seated belief that an exceptional team is essential for outstanding results.
Building a Comprehensive Portfolio
Founded by David Lichtenstein, Lightstone has achieved remarkable diversification in the real estate market. The company actively engages in various sectors, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and retail, showcasing over $12 billion worth of properties across 26 states in the U.S. Among these, 210 existing properties comprise over 12 million square feet across different industries.
In recent years, Lightstone has garnered several prestigious awards, including the Commercial Observer's Power 100, and the ALIS Development of the Year award. These accolades not only affirm the company's industry standing but also validate their continuous efforts to build a supportive work environment.
Conclusion
The accolades received by Lightstone are not mere trophies displayed on a shelf; they symbolize a deep-rooted commitment to building a workplace that prioritizes its people. By focusing on employee well-being, growth, and satisfaction, Lightstone not only excels in real estate but creates a unique culture that is truly worth celebrating.