Melissa Román Burch

Melissa Román Burch is the Chief Operating Officer for the NYC Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). She leads major economic development transactions, initiates tax incentive programs and investments that create jobs in key sectors, and spearheads real estate development on city-owned land. Managing to a double bottom line of financial returns and measured social impact, Melissa mobilizes public and private investment across the NYCEDC portfolio of 64 million square feet and 230 assets comprised of life sciences, film & entertainment, advanced manufacturing, offshore wind, and green economy businesses.

Melissa joined the EDC in 2022 after two decades as a leading business executive and property developer. While at Lendlease and Forest City, she assembled, entitled, capitalized, and constructed millions of square feet of mixed-use office, housing, and entertainment developments. A proud civic leader, Melissa serves as a Trustee of the Henry Street Settlement and has been recognized by Crain’s 40 Under 40, City & State’s Women of Public & Civic Mind, and the Commercial Observer Real Estate Power 100.

For more information, contact tmc2210@columbia.edu.

Organized by the M.S. in Real Estate Development Program at Columbia GSAPP. This event is open to Columbia University affiliates with a valid university ID.