MRA Group's Leadership Changes Set to Propel Future Growth and Innovation

MRA Group's Leadership Changes and Future Growth

MRA Group, a privately held real estate development and services company, is embarking on a new phase in its leadership structure, paving the way for the next chapter of its growth. Founded in 1991 by Larry Stuardi, the firm has been a cornerstone in real estate development, particularly in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. With this recent announcement, the company aims to build on its rich legacy while embracing new challenges.

New Leadership Structure

As of January 8, 2026, MRA Group has appointed Larry Stuardi as the Chairman of the Board. Meanwhile, Mike Wojewodka, who has been with the company for over 22 years, is now also taking on the role of Chief Executive Officer while continuing his position as President. Phil Butler will remain as Executive Vice President. These appointments signal a thoughtful, strategic evolution designed to ensure continuity and progress for the firm’s clients and partners.

Stuardi stated, "From our founding, MRA has been about vision, integrity, and long-term relationships. Our strength has always come from our people and our partners. Mike and Phil have embraced those qualities completely, and I am supremely confident in their ability to guide the company into its next era."

Key Players in the Transition

Wojewodka’s contributions over the last two decades have been significant in shaping MRA’s strategic growth, portfolio diversification, and regional expansion. Butler has introduced operational excellence and innovative practices, strengthening the company's development projects and partnership approach. This dynamic duo embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that has defined MRA since its inception.

MRA Group has developed solid partnerships with regional health systems, universities, and corporations, providing services as strategic advisors, project developers, and property managers. With over $2 billion worth of completed projects, the company has established itself as a leading developer of healthcare facilities and innovation campuses across the Mid-Atlantic region.

Ongoing Projects and Future Aspirations

Currently, Wojewodka and Butler are spearheading the transformative project at the Chestnut Run Innovation and Science Park (CRISP) in Wilmington. This campus is expected to house a 470,000-square-foot biotech manufacturing facility under a long-term lease with Merck, along with a nearby Marriott Residence Inn that is nearing completion. These projects exemplify MRA's commitment to fostering environments that not only stimulate economic growth but also enhance innovation in healthcare and technology.

Under the new leadership structure, Stuardi will lead the newly formed MRA Advisory Board. This board includes professionals specializing in finance, strategy, and development, and will provide guidance on long-term strategy, ensuring the alignment of MRA's foundational values with future ambitions.

Wojewodka articulated the essence of the transition, saying, "This transition is about evolution. Larry's vision laid the foundation for MRA's success. Our task now is to build upon that foundation with the same principles, energy, and integrity that have always defined who we are."

Butler echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the organizational culture aimed at enduring change while seizing new opportunities. "That work has prepared us to seize new opportunities while maintaining the trust, ability to execute, and excellence our clients and partners expect."

Continuing the Legacy

MRA Group remains committed to creating and operating innovative environments that cater to the needs of clients and partners in the healthcare, life sciences, and advanced technology sectors. With Stuardi’s legacy guiding the team, they are set to strengthen MRA's vision for the future, abiding by their motto of “Do Well to Do Good.” Wojewodka concluded, "Larry's leadership has guided MRA through decades of growth, change, and success. As Phil and I take on this next phase, we'll continue to draw on his knowledge and experiences that have shaped MRA from its beginning."

In this pivotal moment, MRA Group is poised not just for growth, but for the sustainable development of its regions and partnerships, ensuring that it remains a trusted name in real estate development for many years to come.