Leonard Abess Jr.
CATEGORY: Philanthropists
Company: City National Bank of Florida
INDUSTRY: Banking
What Makes Him Haute : The world still recognizes Abess for his incredible gesture of appreciation to his employees when he generously divvied up some $60 million of the $945 acquired when he sold the majority stake of the City National Bank of Florida. Now, as the Trustee of the University of Miami, he has donated millions to establish the Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy and acts as chair of UM’s Finance Committee. Abess is also a trustee of Fairchild Tropical Garden and The Nature Conservancy Florida Chapter.
Adrienne Arsht
CATEGORY: Philanthropists
Company: Adrienne Arsht Center
INDUSTRY: Performing Arts
What Makes her Haute : As former Chairman of the board of TotalBank of Miami, Arsht grew the bank to $1.4 billion in assets before selling to Banco Popular Español in 2007 when she began dedicating her life to philanthropy. The first woman to join the Million Dollar Roundtable of United Way of Miami- Dade in 2004, she gifted $6 million to the University of Miami and $30 million to the Adrienne Arsht Center. Her generosity is not limited to southern Florida, large donations in the northeast include $10 million to New York’s Lincoln Center, $5 million to the Kennedy Center and $5 million to the Atlantic Council for a new center on Latin America in Washington D.C.
Edmund Ansin
CATEGORY: Billionaires
Company: Sunbeam Broadcasting
INDUSTRY: Media
What Makes Him Haute : He acquired a Miami television station for $3.4 million in 1962. Today, Sunbeam Broadcasting operates WSVN Channel 7 Miami and WHDH Channel 7 Boston, two of the most prominent stations in the country. WSVN has received a total of three Peabody Awards and over 250 significant awards of local, state and national recognition. Mr. Ansin has served as Director of the United Way of Dade County, the Red Cross and the Anti Defamation League. He also holds the unique honor of receiving the prestigious United Way Alexis de Tocqueville Award for philanthropy in Miami, Boston and Ft. Lauderdale.
Jason Atkins
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur
Company: TUI Lifestyle
INDUSTRY: Design
What Makes him Haute : Visionary entrepreneur Jason Atkins, chairman of TUI LIFESTYLE, founded his company in 2008, with the simple goal of revolutionizing the way home furnishings are sold. Atkins created a business solution: high style, fully decorated, residential furniture collection packages with designer furniture, decorative accessories, and turnkey lifestyle amenities to customers and developers. In only a few years, Atkins has built TUI LIFESTYLE into a major design force in United States and is expanding nationally and internationally to countries such as Canada and Panama.
The Ardid Family
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Key International
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : The Ardid Family owns the real estate development firm, Key International. The family at the company includes Vice Presidents Diego and Inigo Ardid and CEO / President Jose Ardid. Jose Ardid, the prominent architect-turned-developer, is behind Florida’s most luxurious properties such as South Beach Marriott, Eden Roc, Financial Federal, Sunset Plaza and Brickell Mar.
Michael Bay
CATEGORY: Entertainers
Company: Bay Films
INDUSTRY: Film
What Makes him Haute : He is one of Hollywood’s most bankable directors, producing blockbuster action flicks with global ticket sales surpassing the $3 billion mark. “Pearl Harbour,” “Transformers” and “Pain & Gain,” which was filmed in Miami, are among his list of credits, and each film is loaded with his acclaimed special brand of over-the-top effects. The Hollywood power player finds sanctuary at his home on North Bay Road in Miami Beach.
Micky and Madeleine Arison
CATEGORY: Billionaires
Company: Carnival Corporation, Miami Heat
INDUSTRY: Cruise, Sports
What Makes Them Haute : Micky weighs in as Florida’s wealthiest resident with an estimated net worth of $5.7 billion. The Carnival Corporation Chairman and CEO operates 11 different cruise lines including luxury lines Seabourn and Holland America and is also managing general partner of the Miami Heat. It’s been a successful year for the Miami Heat including a 2012 NBA National Championship win, honors at The White House and a winning season in 2013.
Jeff & Yolanda Berkowitz
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Berkowitz Development Group
INDUSTRY: Retail Development
What Makes Them Haute : The former attorney founded Berkowitz Development Group, one of the premier retail development companies in South Florida, lauded for constructing awardwinning buildings. His wife, Yolanda, is known for her community involvement as a board member for foundations including Voices for Children, The United Way and as a sponsor for Miami Children’s Museum annual gala, which Jeff chaired in 2012.
Lea & Roy Black
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Black, Srebnick, Kornspan & Stumpf, P.A.
INDUSTRY: Law, Philanthropy
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: He made a name for himself as one of the best criminal defense lawyers in the country, representing superstar athletes, political pundits and Hollywood celebrities. She is a powerhouse fundraiser for at-risk youth, a businesswoman with her own handbag and skin care line and a star on “The Real Housewives of Miami.” Every year, the Blacks host their very own gala to raise money for the Consequences Program. Together they fight for social justice and have raised well over $12 million for the cause.
Romero Britto
CATEGORY: Artist
Company: Romero Britto
INDUSTRY: Art
What Makes him Haute : Britto’s work is recognized around the world; over twenty cities have his sculptures as permanent installations. He was even invited to display his iconic works of art at the Salon Nationale des Beaux-Arts exhibition at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris. Britto was commissioned to paint a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in honor of the 60th anniversary of her reign. An artistic activist for charitable organizations worldwide, Britto also donates to over 250 charities a year, including this year’s Brazil Foundation gala, where he was an honoree.
Wayne Boich
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Boich Group
INDUSTRY: Mining
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Wayne Michael Boich is Chairman and CEO of the Boich Group of Companies. Mr. Boich joined the company in 1999 and worked in all facets of the Company before becoming CEO in 2005. Under Mr. Boich’s leadership the company has grown significantly and into the international market with the acquisition of Signal Peak Energy in July 2008. Signal Peak is one of the largest underground coal mines in the world. Mr. Boich graduated Cum Laude from the University of Miami in 1998.
Michael Capponi
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Capponi Group Corporation
INDUSTRY: Real Estate, Nightlife
What Makes him Haute : Michael Capponi, a brilliant entrepreneur and committed humanitarian, continues to redefine South Florida’s landscape one successful project at a time. His varied business interests include entertainment and nightlife promotions, high-profile commercial and residential construction, resort development and global humanitarian initiatives. Since 2010, Capponi Construction Group, LLC, has completed multiple building types, including new construction, renovations and the historic rehabilitation of private residences, estates, condominiums, high-end commercial projects, shopping centers and hotels.
Chris & Adrienne Bosh
CATEGORY: Athletes, Power Couples
Company: Miami Heat
INDUSTRY: Basketball
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: As one of Miami Heat’s “Big Three”, Bosh helped lead the team to the 2012 championship win. His honors include NBA All-Star nods, All-NBA Second Team Honors, All-Rookie First Team Honors, and a 2008 Olympic Gold Medal. Bosh served as the national ambassador for After School All-Stars, a non-profit organization with the Hoop Heroes program before launching his own non-profit, Team Tomorrow Inc., in 2011. Chris’ wife, Adrienne Bosh is also involved in events that aid in the betterment of the community and her husband’s eponymous charity.
Raul Casares
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: RC Aluminum Industries
INDUSTRY: Construction
What Makes him Haute : Casares arrived in Miami from Cuba in the 1950s and founded RC Aluminum in the early 1990s. He spent the subsequent two decades building RC Aluminum into a powerhouse, with more than $100 million in revenue each year. Under Casares’ direction, RC Aluminum continues to invest in researching the very best aluminum and glass technology so their products offer the most in safety and style. His most recent projects include the Owensboro Medical Health System, Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center and Aventura Optima Plaza.
Norman Braman
CATEGORY: Billionaires
Company: Braman Enterprises
INDUSTRY: Automobile
WHAT MAKES HiM HAUTE: Braman Motors is where many of the Haute 100 listers turn to purchase their luxury rides, such as Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, Bugattis, BMWs, Minis and Cadillacs. Braman not only owns some 23 auto dealerships in Florida and Colorado, but he is also an avid art collector. His portfolio of works by Picasso, Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol and other acclaimed artists is what helped propel him in the billionaire status in late 2008.
Brenda Nestor & Robert Castellano
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Choice Therapeutics,
Victor Posner Enterprises
INDUSTRY: Medical, Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : Brenda is a former model and actress who is now chairman of Victor Posner Enterprises, a Miami-based real estate development firm. Robert’s Choice Therapeutics develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medical devices such as TheraBond, an antimicrobial barrier system that helps prevent infections in hospital settings. Their involvement for the betterment of the community includes Fairchild’s Gala in the Garden and the American Red Cross Ball.
The Cayre Family
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Midtown Equities,
Core Group Marketing
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : Joe Cayre founded Midtown Equities LLC (MEQS) in 2000 to expand his real estate holdings. He went on to develop projects like Midtown Miami and five million square feet of retail and office space in Washington, D.C. A leading philanthropist, he serves on the boards of several institutions including his own, “The Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation.” His sons Jack and Michael also currently work in the family business. Jack, currently serves as a principal, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the firm’s investment platform. Michael is responsible for commercial acquisition and leasing activities.
Ugo & Sara Colombo
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: CMC Group, NEST
INDUSTRY: Fashion, Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : Ugo has created some of Miami’s most recognizable structures as President of CMC Group and founder of Glasswall, LLC, which specializes in impact-resistant window systems for high-rise properties. Colombo is recognized all over the world for his Midas’ touch, bringing exceptional luxury properties and residential buildings to the city of Miami. His stunning wife Sara’s 2,200 square-foot interior design shop, NEST, specializes in high-style products for the home presented with a coveted European flair that is reflective of her innate sense of style.
Wayne & Arlene Chaplin
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Southern Wine & Spirits of
America, YogArt
INDUSTRY: Liquor & Wine Distribution
What Makes Them Haute : Wayne Chaplin serves as President and Chief Operating Officer for Southern Wine & Spirits of America. Chaplin is active in the social and philanthropic circuits as well, volunteering in various leadership activities at his alma mater. He serves on the University of Miami’s Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee. His wife, Arlene, is also involved in the development of community-bettering initiatives such YogArt, in which she presents yearly during Art Basel. She was also just given a seat on the new Perez Art Museum’s Board of Trustees.
Sean “Diddy” Combs
CATEGORY: Entertainers
Company: Bad Boy Entertainment
INDUSTRY: Entertainment
What Makes him Haute : The Grammy Award-winning, Oscar winning, artist and producer is well known for his business ventures, especially in the music industry. The Bad Boy Entertainment Worldwide umbrella includes Bad Boy Records, Sean John and Sean by Sean Combs clothing lines, a movie production company, Ciroc Vodka and two restaurants. He is also launching his TV channel Revolt, which will feature music videos, live performances, music news and interviews.
Myles Chefetz
CATEGORY: Originator
Company: Myles Restaurant Group
INDUSTRY: Restaurant
What Makes him Haute : Chefetz can be credited with helping transform South Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood with the opening of successful restaurants like Prime One Twelve and Prime Italian. Miami’s elite crowd descends upon the establishments night after night for a taste of the good life. In 2009 Chefetz debuted Prime Hotel & Lounge, a new boutique hotel adjacent to his restaurants. The James Beard Foundation recognized his efforts in 2009, as Chefetz was a semifinalist for the prestigious Outstanding Restaurateur award.
Rick De La Croix
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Hublot
INDUSTRY: Retail, Timepieces
What Makes him Haute : Hublot Americas’ exclusive partner, Rick de la Croix, opened the Hublot Boutique in Bal Harbour and six cities across the states. His timepiece distribution company, founded in 2003 works with Gucci, Graham, TW Steel, HYT, Zenith and TAG Heuer. De la Croix is on the board of the Mourning Family Foundation, involved with Best Buddies, Irie Foundaion and works with Depeche Mode to raise monies for teenage cancer and Charity Water causes. He is a director of London soccer team Tottenham Hotspur F.C. and is an avid street art collector.
Shayne & Felix Cohen
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Oxygene, Mini Oxygene
INDUSTRY: Retail
What Makes Them Haute : This duo is behind one of Miami’s most expertly curated retail destinations, Oxygene and Mini Oxygene in the Bal Harbour Shops. Truly a family affair, both sides of this power couple have been instrumental to the stores that dress Miami’s most discerning customers and host VIP designer trunk shows. Felix was also the mastermind behind 3 Indian Creek Drive, a sprawling 30,000-square-foot residential property.
Carlos and Rosa De La Cruz
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: CCI Companies
INDUSTRY: Consumer Goods, Art Collectors
What Makes Them Haute : He is the chairman of the board of CCI Companies, Inc., which includes subsidiaries of the Coca-Cola Company and has $1 billion in annual sales. She is known as one of Florida’s most prominent art collectors. Recognizing the significance of their incredible collection, the pair periodically opens their home to anyone who wishes to view their outstanding collection; including the time during Art Basel when the couple let 3,000 V.I.P.’s into their Key Biscayne Home.
Brett David
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Prestige Imports
INDUSTRY: Automobile
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: When his father Irv David passed, a 19-year-old Brett was left with the responsibility of running the family business, which included Lamborghini Miami, Lamborghini Palm Beach, Prestige Audi and Prestige Imports. Under his leadership, Prestige has obtained No. 1 rankings in the world for both its Lamborghini Miami and Prestige Audi dealership; there is no small feat for this young entrepreneur. In honor of his late father, David teamed up with the American Heart Association to develop the Prestigious Heart Fund, a non-profit dedicated to promoting heart health and awareness. Recently, David was honored as Man of the Year at Driving Force II, an annual fundraising event for children with life-threatening diseases.
David Edelstein
CATEGORY: Originator
Company: Tristar Capital
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : David Edelstein’s deeply rooted relationships within the real estate and banking community are key to the success of his company, Tristar Capital. Edelstein has been the driving force behind high-profile projects like the Miracle Mile Shops in Las Vegas and the redevelopment of the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall in Miami Beach. He opened his most recent venture, W South Beach Hotel & Residences, in July 2009 in conjunction with RFR Reality, and it quickly became one of the most successful hotels in the W brand portfolio.
William Dean
CATEGORY: entrepreneurs
Company: m.c. dean
INDUSTRY: engineering
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: He is the CEO of M.C.Dean Inc., the nation’s expert electrical design-build and systems integration company. Dean recently unveiled his a 16-bedroom Miami Beach waterfront mansion that spans 2.5 acres. At $47 million, the mansion’s makeover is the most expensive single-family redo ever on the beach. He celebrated its debut with a Gastby-worthy birthday party thrown by Michael Capponi, who was also in charge of the remodel.
Gloria & Emilio Estefan
CATEGORY: Power Couples/Originators
Company: Estefan Enterprises
INDUSTRY: Entertainment
What Makes Them Haute : She’s the Queen Of Latin Pop, has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide, and has won seven Grammy Awards. Inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame, the superstar and her husband Emilio are also actively involved in the improvement of their Miami community and that of their home country of Cuba. Emilio is a musician and producer credited with skyrocketing the success of many famed music artists. The Estefans are authors of a bestseller, minority owners of the Miami Dolphins and are working on their musical production debut.
Edgardo Defortuna
CATEGORY: entrepreneurs
Company: fortu ne internatio nal
INDUSTRY: REAL ESTATE
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Fortune International President and Founder, Edgardo Defortuna launched the firm in 1983. Since then, Fortune has become recognized as a leader in high-end luxury real estate in Miami, and more recently, Latin America and Europe. Defortuna is recognized for helping shape Miami’s international real estate landscape into what it is today.
Oscar & Ellen Feldenkreis
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Perry Ellis International
INDUSTRY: Fashion
What Makes Them Haute : Oscar and Ellen Feldenkreis are involved in numerous national and civic causes including the Kosher Food Bank, United Way and the YPO/WPO Organization. Oscar is Vice-Chairman, President and COO of Perry Ellis International and on the Board of Directors of FIT’s Educational Foundation for the Fashion Industries. He is also WPO Membership Chair and is an Advisory Member for the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business Retail. In June 2012, Oscar was awarded the Father of the Year Award benefitting Save the Children, and has received the National Human Relations award from the American Jewish Committee and the 2008 Entrepreneur of the Year Award from the Wharton School of Business.
Gil & Lorena Dezer
CATEGORY: Originators, Power Couples
Company: Dezer Properties
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: Dezer Properties has developments in New York, Las Vegas and Miami and manages over 1,000 ocean-front hotels. The company represents the largest resort and residential community ever developed in Sunny Isles’ history; Trump Grande Ocean Resort and Residences features the Trump International Beach Resort, Trump Palace and Trump Royale. The accomplished businessman and humanitarian is also the youngest developer of luxury high-rise residential and condo-hotel developments in the United States. Lorena is a fixture on the social scene and a generous supporter of charitable causes in the community.
Jim Ferraro
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur, Philanthropists
Company: The Ferraro Law Firm
INDUSTRY: Law
What Makes him Haute : His firm now handles nearly 50,000 asbestos cases, and are known nationwide for their environmental toxic tort practice. Jim has also earned recognition in Miami’s philanthropic circuit with his donations to charity, including the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Children’s Home Society, United Way and The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis. He was inducted into the Hope Stout Society in 2008 and named one of the Twelve Good Men by the Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida in 2010.
Ella Fontanals-Cisneros
CATEGORY: Thinkers
Company: Cisneros Fontanals Group
INDUSTRY: Art
What Makes her Haute : She began collecting Latin American art in the 1970s and founded CFAF in 2002 with the goal of fostering, understanding and appreciating contemporary artists from Latin America through grants, commissions, exhibitions and bilingual publications. She is a trustee of the Tate Americas Foundation, Cintas Foundation, the United States Artists and the International Women’s Forum. She also dedicates her time to being an active humanitarian and environmentalist.
Philip Goldfarb
CATEGORY: Thinkers
Company: Fontainebleau
INDUSTRY: Hospitality
What Makes him Haute : As President and CEO of Fontainebleau, Goldfarb has taken the iconic resort to the next level with creative ideas like BleauLive, the resort’s one-of-a-kind entertainment platform. 7 Years as COO of Turnberry Associates and 13 years as Doubletree’s GM and director of operations prepared him to run the ultimate Miami Beach hotel property. He has won FIU’s Hospitality School “Torchbearer Award” and the prestigious FIU Medallion.
Nelson Fox
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur
Company: Koniver Stern Group
INDUSTRY: Real Estate/Hospitality
What Makes him Haute : As a commercial real estate broker, Nelson Fox has pioneered the ever-growing culinary reputation of South of Fifth on Miami Beach. Fox has been working alongside Lyle Stern of Koniver Stern Group for some 15 years, developing some of the most successful properties in the city.
The Goldman Family
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Goldman Properties
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : Goldman Properties, founded by visionary Tony Goldman, is responsible for transforming Soho in New York, Miami Beach’s Art Deco District and now Wynwood in Miami from depressed locations into the hottest real estate in the country. Following Tony’s passing in 2012, the family is carrying on the business of innovative development. Daughter Jessica has taken the role of CEO and partner, brother Joey is a partner and mother Janet is now Chairman and partner.
Phillip & Patricia Frost
CATEGORY: Power Couples, Billioniares
Company: Teva
INDUSTRY: Pharmaceuticals
What Makes Them Haute : Frost sold his pharmaceutical company for $7.6 billion to Teva in 2005, where he now sits as Chairman. He also owns a 45% stake in Opko Health. Patricia served as chair of the Smithsonian National Board. The couple is a huge supporter of the arts, evidenced by their recordbreaking $33 million donation to the University of Miami that led to finance the Frost School of Music. The couple’s additional donation to Florida International University resulted in a renaming of the school’s art museum, The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum. Adding to their list of eponymous museums is the new Miami Science Museum, which was dubbed the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science, thanks to a $35 million donation by the philanthropic couple.
Ken Gorin
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: The Collection
INDUSTRY: Automobile
What Makes him Haute : Gorin, co-owner and president of The Collection in Miami, is known as one of the most respected luxury automobile executives. Under his direction, The Collection has become one of the most distinguished luxury dealerships in the country. Gorin is on the Chairman’s committee of Make-A-Wish Foundation, and through The Collection, Gorin sponsors the Junior League of Greater Miami, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the University of Miami, Amigos for Kids, The Humane Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters and more.
Russell Galbut
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Crescent Heights
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : Acting as Managing Principal of Crescent Heights, a company heralded as the leader in high-rise residential construction and hotel development, Galbut has real estate in his blood. He comes from a Miami Beach family who, at one point, was the largest landowner on the beach. Crescent Heights is amongst the nation’s largest residential condominium companies with properties across Miami, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and many other cities. Currently, they have over a billion dollars in ground-up construction projects, all in various stages of development.
Manuel Grosskopf
Category : Entrepreneur
Company: Chateau Group
Industry : Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : Originally from Argentina, Manuel Grosskopf is the head of U.S operations for Chateau Group. He has helped finance two major Miami condominium towers alongside Miami Terra Group – 900 Biscayne and Quantum on the Bay. In December 2012, Château Group launched an oceanfront luxury condominium, The Chateau Beach Residences in Sunny Isles, which is the company’s first major solo U.S. construction project, as well as the $50 million purchase of the Best Western Hotel in Surfside, which will be redeveloped into the Chateau Ocean, a 12-story, 85-unit condominium.
Dave Grutman
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Miami Marketing Group
INDUSTRY: Nightlife
What Makes him Haute : Armed with an enviable Rolodex and a knack for wrangling the right crowd, he opened Miami Marketing Group (MMG) with partners Brian Gordon and Ryan Schinman. MMG deals with full-service, experiential marketing platforms for everything from red carpet events to the hottest nightclubs around. In addition to the always-packed LIV at the Fontainebleau, MMG recently added Story in a famed venu south of Fifth.
JAMES Henderson
CATEGORY: Thinker
Company: Ferretti Group
INDUSTRY: Yachting
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Henderson is the President & CEO of Ferretti Group America, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of luxury yachts with brands such as Ferretti, Pershing, Riva and CRN. With yachts starting at $1m for the 33ft Riva Aquariva, and the Groups recent production of the largest luxury yacht ever built in Italy, the CRN 80M, Henderson brings an innovative luxury branding approach to the yachting industry and has led the Group’s expansion in the Americas with unprecedented results.
Thomas Kato
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur
Company: Kato Companies
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : He started the successful real estate development firm, Kato companies, which develops commercial use properties for retailers and many Fortune 100 companies. He is founder and CEO of Merchant Hub, a multi national payment processing company with offices throughout the United States, London, Milan and Brazil. He is also on the board of directors for the South Beach-based healthstyle brand whose mission is to help end child hunger in America.
H. Wayne Huizenga
CATEGORY: Billionaires
INDUSTRY: Sports
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: He is the only person ever to be responsible for six companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange and to build three Fortune 500 companies. Beyond that, he is the man responsible for bringing professional baseball and hockey to South Florida when he was awarded the Florida Marlins in 1991 and the Florida Panthers in 1992. He was a majority owner of the Miami Dolphins for 15 years, which made him the only person to have owned three professional sports teams in the same region. He is also featured in the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society’s new exhibition showcasing the city’s memorable business history over the past 50 years.
Lenny Kravitz
CATEGORY: Entertainment, Entrepreneurs
Company: Kravitz Design Inc.
INDUSTRY: Music, Design
What Makes him Haute : He is a world renowned recording artist who set a record for the most consecutive wins in the GRAMMY category for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance. Along with his 38 million albums sold worldwide, he took his artistry further by opening his boutique creative firm, Kravitz Design in 2003, which specializes in interior design. His work in Miami features SLS, The Florida Room, and Paramount Bay. Kravitz also appeared in a supporting role in the critically-acclaimed film “Precious,” for which he received a 2010 NAACP and was casted in 2012’s top grossing film “The Hunger Games.”
LeBron James
CATEGORY: Athletes
Company: Miami Heat
INDUSTRY: Basketball
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: The Miami Heat forward, dubbed “King James” has cemented himself as one of the greatest players in NBA history. His 2012 season with the Heat brought a championship win as well as his third MVP title. Off the court, James and his LRMR marketing group became the sole marketer of James’ global rights which gave the NBA player minority ownership of the English soccer club Liverpool FC. James has also been an ambassador of luxury timepiece manufacturer Audemars Piguet since 2011.
Joanna Krupa & Romain Zago
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Mynt Lounge
INDUSTRY: Nightlife
What Makes Them Haute : Zago is the owner of Mynt Lounge on South Beach, which has stood as a chosen venue for exclusive celebrity events. Romain’s model fiance, Joanna Krupa, has graced the covers of countless magazines and appeared on “Dancing with the Stars,” and is a member of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Miami.” The beauty is actively involved in PETA starring in their “I’d Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur” campaign, and has her own non profit, Rescue Angels, which is an animal rescue organization.
Jill Eber & Jill Hertzberg
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: The celebrity broker team known as “The Jills,” of Coldwell Banker, recently became the brokerage’s most successful team in history, having the highest production on record of any agent team in the company’s 106-year history, closing over $474.7 million in sales during 2012. Their top location picks include exclusive oceanfront homes and condos on Fisher Island, Sunset Island, Golden Beach, La Gorce and Indian Creek Island. The Jills recently listed Matt Damon’s $20 million Miami Beach estate and the Kardashian mansion in South Florida for $14.5 million.
John Kunkel
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur, Originator
Company: 50 eggs
INDUSTRY: Restaurant
What Makes him Haute : After selling his cute, causal Mexican restaurant Lime to Ruby Tuseday for $24 million in 2010, Kunkel started 50 Eggs Restaurant Group, which has opened acclaimed eateries Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, Khong River House and Swine Southern Table & Bar. The 50 Eggs CEO is creating its new headquarters in a historic Mimo building on Biscayne that will serve as offices, a Test Kitchen and space for charity dinners for culinary non profits such as the James Beard Foundation and Common Threads. 50 Eggs also offers advice to newbie restaurant entrepreneurs gratis.
Karolina Kurkova & Archie Drury
CATEGORY: Entertainment, Power Couples
INDUSTRY: Modeling
What Makes Them Haute : Kurkova has graced the prestigious international covers of Vogue, and has had contracts with brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Victoria’s Secret, for whom she walks the runway every year. Kurkova is also an active humanitarian; she was the face of the 2012 Fashion Targets Breast Cancer campaign and consistently works towards the welfare of children through organizations such as The Beautiful Life Fund, Free Arts and Global Youth Action Network. She is also a coach on Oxygen’s model search television series “The Face.” In 2009, Kurkova married “Voices of Iraq” Film producer and former actor Archie Drury before she gave birth to their son Tobin.
Howard Lorber
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Prudential Douglas Elliman
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : In addition to being the Chairman and a principal owner of New York real estate powerhouse Prudential Douglas Elliman, he is the chairman and CEO of Nathan’s Famous. He is also the director of United Capital Corp., a real estate investment and management company with a portfolio of 150 properties throughout the U.S. On a local front, Lorber is president and CEO of the Miami-based Vector Group Ltd., a publicly held company listed on the New York Stock Exchange that makes and markets high-quality tobacco products.
Eddie Lampert
CATEGORY: Billionaires
Company: Sears Holdings Corporation,
ESL Investments
INDUSTRY: Finance
What Makes him Haute : He’s the chairman of Sears Holdings Corporation, which includes Sears, Kenmore, Lands End, and Kmart, which he helped to rebuild after bankruptcy. Lampert is also the founder, chairman, and CEO of ESL Investments, a private investment company that Lampert started at the ripe age of 25. In 2013 he was ranked #125 in Forbes’ list of the 400 richest Americans.
Diego & Gisela Lowenstein
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Lionstone Development
and The Glow System
INDUSTRY: Hospitality
What Makes Them Haute : CEO of Lionstone Development, Diego began acquiring an impressive portfolio of properties in South Florida five decades ago. This group is behind the Ritz-Carlton South Beach, EPIC Hotel and Residences and many international resort properties. Diego recently partnered with Sir Richard Branson in his newest venture to bring Virgin Hotels to a global audience, beginning in cities across North America and London. Gisela, a hospitality guru in her own right, launched a home improvement system aptly named The Glow System.
Philip Levine
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur
Company: Royal Media Partners,Baron Corp.
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : In 2000 Levine sold On Board Media, a company he started in 1990 with only $500 in capital, to LVMH. Now Philip Levine is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Media Partners (RMP), the exclusive onboard media and port shopping partner of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. He is also the President and CEO of Baron Corp, a privately held investment company which focuses on opportunistic investments in the tourism and real estate sector. Levine is currently involved with the Clinton Global Initiative, on the board of Best Buddies and making a mayoral run in Miami Beach.
Al and Shareef Malnik
Category : Entrepreneur
Company: The Forge Restaurant | Winebar
Industry : Hospitality
What Makes Them Haute : Passion and drive are the hallmarks of Al Malnik and Shareef Malnik, a father and son whose contributions to South Florida’s philanthropic community are legendary. Al and wife Nancy Malnik are Lifetime Benefactors of Make-A-Wish Southern Florida, with support that includes an unprecedented $1 million donation to the charity in 2012. Shareef, proprietor of Miami Beach culinary landmark, The Forge Restaurant | Wine Bar, is a board member and has been Chairman of the InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball since 2005, having helped raise more than $9 million.
Diane & Alan Lieberman
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: South Beach Investment Realty,
South Beach Group
INDUSTRY: Real Estate, Hospitality
What Makes Them Haute : Together, Diane and Alan form a real estate powerhouse. Diane’s SBI Realty is behind the sales of some of the biggest profile listings in the region. Alan runs the show at South Beach Group, operating 10 properties, including the Catalina, SBG’s flagship property on Collins Avenue, and the new Riviera. The Liebermans hotels have been fixtures on South Beach for the past decade thanks to a business model that is based on innovation, outstanding marketing tactics, and an innate understanding of the customer.
Martin Z. Margulies
Category : Thinkers
Company: Margulies Collection
at the Warehouse
Industry : Art
What Makes him Haute : After amassing one of the most impressive collections of contemporary art in the world, Margulies began showcasing his pieces, which run the gamut from contemporary art and vintage photography, to video, sculpture, and installations, to the public in 1999. After outgrowing its original location, The Margulies Collection moved to a 45,000-square-foot renovated warehouse in the heart of Wynwood. The Martin Z. Margulies Foundation is a non-profit that is focused on presenting exhibitions and educational programs.
Pedro & David Martin
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Terra Group
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: David Martin is Chief Operating Officer of Terra Group, which is known for downtown Miami development projects such as 900 Biscayne Bay and Quantum on the Bay. Terra’s latest projects include GLASS, A 10-unit all-glass tower in South of Fifth, and The Grove at Grand Bay, an ultra-modern condominium designed by Bjarke Ingels in the heart of Coconut Grove. Pedro is Chairman, CEO and Founder of Terra Group and has been awarded Developer of the Year by the American Institute of Architecture.
Gary Nader
CATEGORY: Thinkers
Company: Gary Nader Fine Art
INDUSTRY: Art
What Makes him Haute : Regarded as one of the most successful gallery owners in the United States and Latin America, Nader has played an integral role in the formation of Miami’s growing presence in the art world. His Wynwood gallery presents a number of solo and group exhibitions and provides extensive professional services to assist private clientele, corporations and museums with the acquisition or sale of Latin American, Modern, and Contemporary art. Nadar owns the largest fine art gallery in the world with 55,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space.
Keith Menin
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Menin Hotels
INDUSTRY: Hospitality/Development
WHAT MAKES hi HAUTE: Menin is the descendant of the esteemed Galbut family, who has long had roots in South Florida’s hotel industry. Menin opened his first hotel when he was just 24 years old. He is now lauded as one of the top new generation hoteliers with venerable projects such as the Gale South Beach and The Shelborne and the $50 million critically-acclaimed renovation of the Mondrian South Beach in which he partnered with the Morgan’s hotel group. Menin recently developed a new brand of boutique hotels called MARKET, which will be opening in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward neighborhood.
Sam Nazarian
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: SBE
INDUSTRY: Hospitality
What Makes him Haute : SBE’s Founder, Chairman and CEO owns LA’s hottest spots from Area to The Abbey, and a stake in the white hot SLS hotel brand. With the opening of the SLS South Beach, the acquisition of The Raleigh and a new partnership with Jorge Perez to open SLS Brickell, Nazarian is heavily invested in Miami. Partnerships with Philippe Starck, Katsuya Uechi and Jose Andres have propelled Nazarian’s SLS brand which is expanding into Seattle and Las Vegas.
Stuart Miller
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Lennar
INDUSTRY: Construction
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Stuart’s father Leonard founded Lennar and Stuart took over the company in 1997. Miller created LNR Property corporation to expand services and handle commercial operations. In 2006 Lennar was listed as one of America’s best managed companies thanks to Miller, who also guided Lennar through the housing crisis, which has returned to building beautiful and affordable homes across the country.
Jay Parker
CATEGORY: Originators, Entrepreneurs
Company: Clear Title Group LLC, Titan Capital
and Beloff Parker Jacobs PLC
INDUSTRY: Law
What Makes him Haute : Jay Parker founded Clear Title Group LLC which is Miami’s leading closing agency for distinguished buyers and sellers. Recently, Parker and partner real estate attorney Jonathan Beloff partnered with Eric Jacobs to create Beloff Jacobs Parker PLC, Miami Beach’s most significant transactional law firm. Jay Parker is also the managing partner of Titan Capital Florida, a direct lender with offices in New York, Connecticut and Miami. Jay advocates against animal abuse and sits on the City of Miami Beach Community Development Board.
Tracy & Alonzo Mourning
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Mourning Family Foundation
INDUSTRY: Philanthropy
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: Miami Heat star Alonzo Mourning was the first player to have his number retired at the American Airlines Arena. He founded the Alonzo Mourning Charities, now called Mourning Family Foundation, over 15 years ago, which has since raised more than $7 million to benefit children and families, including the Overtown Youth Center. Tracy is a mentor, designer, broadcast journalist and motivational speaker. Her main focus is on the Honey Shine mentoring program. Together the couple also operates Zo’s Fund for Life, which seeks to raise $2 million for the research and testing for Focal Glomerulosclerosis, a rare kidney disease, which Alonzo was diagnosed with in 2001.
R. Donahue & Katrina Peebles
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: The Peebles Corporation
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : R. Donahue “Don” Peebles is the CEO and chairman of the New York City-based Peebles Corporation, one of the largest real estate development companies in the country. His wife, Katrina, serves on the board of directors of the Peebles Corporation and brings more than twenty years of experience in real estate. Mr. Peebles is also on the National Finance Committee of President Barack Obama.
Tom Murphy Jr.
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Coastal Construction Group
INDUSTRY: Construction
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Along with his brother, Murphy founded the Coastal family of companies, which includes Coastal Construction, Coastal Condominiums, Coastal Interiors, and Coastal Homes. In total, the company has more than $1 billion in projects, like the St. Regis Resort and Residences, in the works, and Murphy oversees it all as Chairman and CEO.
Jorge Perez
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Related Group
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : Perez’s company, The Related Group, has been at the forefront of South Florida’s urban evolution for the past 30 years with a portfolio of projects worth in excess of $10 billion. He donated the Jorge M. Perez Architecture Center at the University of Miami and in 2011 he donated $35 million to the Miami Art Museum for its new park location in Miami’s Bicentennial park, which will become the Jorge M. Perez Art Museum of Miami Dade when it opens. Jorge Perez has been named one of the top 25 most influential Hispanics in the United States by TIME magazine.
Brett Ratner
CATEGORY: Thinkers
Company: HSI Productions
INDUSTRY: Film
What Makes him Haute :The billion-dollar director is the force behind a slew of action-packed blockbusters including the Rush Hour trilogy, X-Men: The Last Stand, and Movie 43. He will also direct Dwayne Johnson in the upcoming Hercules: The Thracian Wars. Ratner was also this year’s recipient of GLAAD’S Ally Award.
Alicia & Mike Piazza
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Retired from the New York Mets
INDUSTRY: Baseball
What Makes Them Haute : Former Mets star and the best-hitting catcher of all time and his wife Alicia are integral parts of the Miami social scene. Having the most home runs as a catcher in MLB history, Piazza’s records include Rookie of The Year, All-Star Game MVP Honors and first recipient of the annual Yogi Berra Award. Alicia, a former actress and model, is now Haute Living’s Travel Ambassador.
Loren & JR Ridinger
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Market America
INDUSTRY: Internet Shopping
What Makes Them Haute : In the 90’s, the Ridinger’s birthed a marketing concept that would revolutionize the world of online shopping. Market America is now one of the world’s top internet sites. The acquisition of SHOP.COM in 2010 facilitated the company’s 2012 expansion into the UK. Next on the agenda is Mexico, Motives for La La, in collaboration with La La Anthony which provides products for women of every shade; and Meeton.com, a social video streaming concept where subscribers can interact via live-video with A-list celebrities and public figures through multi-platform integration. The Ridinger’s recently flew to Puerto Rico for their daughter Amber’s $5 million wedding extravaganza.
Pitbull
CATEGORY: Entertainment
Company: Imaginate Charity Foundation
INDUSTRY: Music
What Makes him Haute : He has been nominated for over 50 international music awards and has won 3 Billboard awards, 2 American Latino Media Arts Awards and was named 2011 and 2012 Premio Lo Nuestro’s Favorite Hip-Hop Artist. Pitbull recently partnered with Miami Subs to relaunch the famous Miami brand and has Latin American expansion rights. He also founded the Imaginate Charity Foundation in his hometown of Miami, which provides support to the children of low income migrant families through art, business and social teachings.
Pat & Chris Riley
Category : Power Couples, Thinkers
Company: Miami Heat
Industry : Basketball
What Makes Them Haute : Riley led the Miami Heat to its first NBA championship in 2006 as the team’s head coach. Now as its president, he was the force responsible for bringing some of the biggest names in the NBA to Miami, including Shaquille O’Neal, Alonzo Mourning, Chris Bosh and LeBron James. Riley’s NBA career spans 44 years, producing seven NBA championships. The third most winningest coach and an impressive list of accomplishments earned Riley a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Pat’s wife, Chris Riley serves as a part of the Jackson Memorial Foundation Board for the Miami Heat Charitable Fund.
Dora Puig
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: PuigWerner
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes her Haute : Dora Puig knows luxury well. She has been selling high-end real estate in Miami since 1995, and before that, in a little town called Beverly Hills. To date, she has sold over $1 billion in luxury real estate, and established her own boutique brokerage firm, PuigWerner Real Estate. In addition to selling, she sometimes consults on development projects, where her opinion is highly valued.
Marc Roberts
Category : Entrepreneurs
Company: Worldwide Entertainment and
Sports Corporation
Industry : Real Estate, Sports
What Makes him Haute : At 19, Marc Roberts was the youngest person to promote a professional boxing match. By the age of 21 he had his first world champion. In the midst of his success with his Worldwide Entertainment and Sports Corporation, Marc developed a special interest for real estate and up to date has completed over $1 billion in investment projects around the country. In Alabama, June 5th is “Marc Roberts Day” thanks to his sustained contribution to the Easter Seals Camp, ASCCA, the world’s largest year-round barrier-free camp for people with disabilities.
Craig Robins & Jackie Soffer
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Dacra Development
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: He is a real-estate developer who is currently investing $312 million to bring in the biggest names in high-end luxury fashion to the Design District, from Louis Vuitton, to Hermes to Celine. She is chairman and CEO of Turnberry Associates and oversees the company’s retail, hospitality, and office divisions, including Aventura Mall, South Florida’s largest super-regional shopping mall.
Stephanie Sayfie-Aagaard
CATEGORY: Philanthropists
Company: The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis
INDUSTRY: Philanthropy
What Makes her Haute : Miami-based socialite and author of Miami Herald Column, “Steph Sez,” Stephanie Sayfie-Aagaard keeps more than busy. Aagaard uses all of her community ties to raise funds for causes dear to her heart. Topping her list of important charitable causes are The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and The Buoniconti Fund, the world’s largest, most comprehensive spinal cord injury research center.
Stephen Ross
CATEGORY: Billionaires
Company: Related, Miami Dolphins
Industry Real Estate,
INDUSTRY: Real Estate, Sports
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Ross’ Related Companies has been a force in the industry since its inception with trophy developments across the nation. In 2009, Ross became 95 percent owner of the Miami Dolphins and is currently working on a $390 million renovation deal in hopes of attracting a Super Bowl in 2015. Ross’ mobile technology company FanVision makes handheld devices that streams live stadium feeds for sports fans at games, and has inked a 5-year deal with NASCAR.
Lee Brian Schrager
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Southern Wine & Spirits
INDUSTRY: Liquor & Wine Distribution
What Makes him Haute : An executive of Florida-based distribution company, Southern Wine & Spirits, Schrager is responsible for the company’s marketing. Schrager took things to the next level when he created the Food Network’s South Beach Wine & Food Festival, which brings the most celebrated names from the world’s finest culinary institutions and revered wineries to the sands of Miami Beach for one weekend each February to benefit FIU’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Schrager launched a similar festival in New York which benefits food banks in the city.
The Rubell Family
CATEGORY: Thinkers
Company: Rubell Family Collection Industry Art
INDUSTRY: Art
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: In 1964 in New York Don Rubell and his wife Mera began amassing their personal art collection. The idea to share that collection with the world led these pioneers of the art scene to Miami in the early 90’s, where they opened the Rubell Family Collection in its current 45,000-square-foot warehouse/museum in Wynwood. Don and Mera’s children, Jennifer and Jason, have honored the family’s legacy while leading Miami’s art scene and operating the non-profit Contemporary Arts Foundation.
Michael Schwartz
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: The Genuine Hospitality Group
INDUSTRY: Hospitality
What Makes him Haute : Chef Michael Schwartz’s first restaurant, Michael’s Genuine has won every accolade there is and spawned The Genuine Hospitality Group, under which more restaurants have been opened including The Cypress Room, and 150 Central Park aboard 2 Royal Caribbean ships. After inking a deal with SBE, he’s opening Restaurant Michael Schwartz at The Raleigh this month and an eatery at the planned SLS Brickell.
Roman Jones, Francis & Eric Milon
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Opium Group
INDUSTRY: Nightlife
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: One of the country’s most successful nightlife conglomerates, The Opium Group has been at the forefront of Miami clubs and is the driving force behind South Beach’s ongoing cultural renaissance. The three managing partners create a tour de force of hospitality, design, and ambiance that attracts the glitterati of South Florida to all of their luxurious clubs. The Group is responsible for nightclubs such as Mansion,Cameo Theatre, SET and Mokai. Most recently, Roman Jones has acquired Club Space, independent of the Opium Group.
Marco Selva
CATEGORY: Thinkers
Company: St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort
INDUSTRY: Hospitality
What Makes him Haute : Marco Selva is St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort’s General Manager. With more than 20 years of experience in domestic and international luxury hospitality and his wealth of knowledge in the business, he is quite an asset to St. Regis Bal Harbour, one of the world’s most exclusive and distinguished resort destinations. In previous years, Marco Selva achieved the AAA’s coveted five diamond star rating under his management for the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne as well as the Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove.
Alejandro Sanz
CATEGORY: Entertainers
Company: Universal Music
INDUSTRY: Entertainment
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Undoubtedly one of Latin music’s greatest singers and songwriters, Alejandro Sanz has won a total of 15 Latin Grammy Awards and three Grammy Awards. His latest project “La musica no se toca” was the best-selling album of 2012 in Latin music with chart topping hits such as “No me compares”. Collaborations with Kelly Rowland, Shakira, and Alicia Keys helped him win American hearts.
Alina & Anthony Shriver
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Best Buddies International
INDUSTRY: Philanthropy
What Makes Them Haute : 24 years ago, Anthony Kennedy Shriver founded Best Buddies International, a global nonprofit which has since grown to have some 1,500 chapters around the world. 700,000 people are positively impacted by Best Buddies each year. Alina is the Vice President of art and merchandise for the organization. She also runs Shriver Art, an art consulting and marketing business that is responsible for the 35-foot Britto sculpture that was unveiled at the 5th Street entrance to Miami Beach.
Donald Trump
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: The Trump Organization
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : Trump purchased Palm Beach’s magnificent Mar-A-Lago estate in 1985 and used it as his home before turning it into one of the most exclusive private clubs. It is the last remaining Palm Beach estate that is almost identical to the day it was built, albeit with modern comforts and upgrades, which led it to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to his various properties in South Florida, including one in Hollywood, two in Sunny Isles and the Trump International Golf Club in Palm Beach, Trump also recently purchased the Doral Golf Resort and Spa for $150 million.
Karim Masri, Nicola Siervo & Rony Seikaly
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: KNR Food Concept
INDUSTRY: Restaurants & Night-life
What Makes Them Haute : This trio are partners in KNR Food Concept, which is behind Quattro Gastronomia Italiana and Sosta. They lent their know-how to Joia, Hotel Astor, Mynt and Mokai. They operate the food, beverage and nightlife establishments at the W South Beach, The Dutch, WET and WALL. Seikaly also played for the Miami HEAT. Quadrant Investment Group, of which Seikaly is CEO, has created and managed three separate funds with $128 million in investor equity and $350 million in real estate.
Raj Vattikuti
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Vattikuti Foundation
INDUSTRY: Philanthrophy
What Makes Them Haute : Vattikuti sold his Covansys, a global technology and consulting firm which specializes in outsourcing, to Computer Sciences in 2007 for $1.3 billion. Raj and his wife Padma now give support to numerous causes. The two have funded the Vattikuti Urology Institute and the Vattikuti Digital Breast Diagnostic Center in Michigan and the Vattikuti Foundation Robotic Surgery Institute and The Poverty Alleviation initiative in India.
Michael & Nikki Simkins
CATEGORY: Power Couples
Company: Lion Associates/Leon J. Simkins
Charitable Foundation
INDUSTRY: Real Estate/Philanthropy
What Makes Them Haute : Michael is President of Lion Associates, a Miami based company which includes Simkins Industries, Westfield Financial real estate and Lion Financial. Nicole’s family owns Charles Kaufman Enterprises, an 80-year-old diamond company located in downtown Miami. Michael and Nicole are continuing the families’ philanthropic interests with the Leon J. Simkins Charitable Foundation, as well as with diabetes research and work with Jackson Memorial Hospital, Women of Tomorrow, Miami Beach JCC and the Love and Hope Ball.
Daniel & Mayi De La Vega
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: ONE Sotheby’s International Realty
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes Them Haute : This mother-son power duo has been quickly taking over the Miami Real Estate ranks. In 2012, ONE Sotheby’s totaled sales of more than $1.3 billion and was named among the top 10 firms in the nation. But, what makes Mayi and Daniel even more powerful are their contacts around the world. They have successfully created partnerships in several other countries including Argentina, Peru, Brazil and Panama. ONE Sotheby’s now has over 12,000 sales associates throughout 650 offices in countries all over the globe. Together, they have turned the South Florida market into the universal capital it is today.
Don & Jeff Soffer
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: Turnberry & Associates
INDUSTRY: Real Estate/Hospitality
What Makes Them Haute : Don opened his first shopping mall with his father when he was just 24 years old. He then came down to South Florida where he purchased almost 1,000 acres of marshland in northern Dade County in 1967 and filled the area, creating what is known today as Aventura. His son Jeff followed in his footsteps into real estate and hospitality with the $500 million makeover of his world-renowned Fontainebleau Miami Beach.
Dwyane Wade
Category : Athletes
Company: Miami Heat
Industry : Basketball
What Makes him Haute : The Chicago native came to Miami in 2003 when he was selected fifth overall in the NBA draft. He went on to lead the team to its first NBA World Championship in 2006 and got crowned MVP, then led Team USA to a gold medal in the Olympics. After being joined by teammates LeBron James and Chris Bosh, Wade helped lead the team to win the NBA Finals Championship in 2012 and to a fabulous regular season in 2013 that almost broke a record for consecutive wins. Equally impressive off the court, he has earned respect for his strong community involvement helping at-risk youths through his Wade’s World Foundation.
Norman Wedderburn
CATEGORY: Philanthropists
Company: Make-A-Wish Foundation of
Southern Florida
INDUSTRY: Philanthropy
What Makes him Haute : A philanthropic leader in high society, Wedderburn’s annual InterContinental Miami Make- A-Wish Ball generates more dollars and headlines each consecutive year with its ‘who’s who’ guest list of South Florida VIPs. In 2012, the annual ball raised $1.7 million to support the foundation’s mission of granting wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Robert Wennett & Mario Cader-Frech
CATEGORY: Originators
Company: 1111 Lincoln/MTV Latin America
INDUSTRY: Development/Marketing
WHAT MAKES THEM HAUTE: Wennett has spent 25 years conceiving and developing landmark structures in urban environments across the country. His visionary 1111 Lincoln Road garage designed by Herzog & de Meuron has become a design icon. He is currently in the running for the Miami Beach Convention Center Master Plan project, for which he has tapped two additional internationally renowned architecture firms, Rem Koolhaas’ Office for Metropolitan Architecture, and Snøhetta. Mario is the Vice President of Public Affairs & Corporate Social Responsibility for MTV Networks Latin America. The two are well-known art collectors and currently live in one of the coveted residential units located inside the 1111 building.
Michael & Bobby Yam Polsky
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: East Coast Jewelry
INDUSTRY: Jewelry/Timepieces
What Makes Them Haute : The fatherson duo is the no. 1 retailer for Audemars Piguet and Hublot timepieces in America. Bobby made Palm Beach history by becoming the youngest store owner on Worth Avenue at age 19. Now, their 20-plus year reputation in the industry means East Coast Jewelry is the go-to establishment for gold and exquisite, rare timepieces. This reputation was further cemented when Bobby, along with Morten Nielsen, founded SCI Innovations, the company behind the Ulysse Nardin Chairman luxury hybrid smart phone.
Mathew Whitman- Lazenby
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Bal Harbour Shops
INDUSTRY: Retail Development
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Matthew Whitman- Lazenby is operating partner of the Bal Harbour Shops, which is ranked no.1 worldwide in productivity based on sales per square foot. Matthew, a third generation Whitman family member in the business, says he and his family plan to expand 200,000 sq. ft. of retail space. Prior to working at the Bal Harbour Shops, he worked for a New York real estate broker and Detroit-based real estate developer.
Engin Yesil
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Core Development Holdings Corp
INDUSTRY: Real Estate
What Makes him Haute : He is a diversified entrepreneur to his core. After making his fortune by innovating the eyewear industry through a contact company now known as 1.800.CONTACTS, Turkish tycoon Yesil launched Iprepay, a pioneer company that delivers store value products such as prepaid wireless airtime, calling cards, bill payment and more. He founded Core Development in 1996, and his Turkish real estate company, Yesil Insaat, is developing a grand-scale project near Istanbul. He has been chairman and director of SK Realty Ventures since 2007, and he also became president of Wilson Creek Mining Corporation in 2008.
Pharrell Williams
CATEGORY: Entertainers
Company: The Neptunes, I am Other
INDUSTRY: Music
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: The four-time Grammy Award-winning artist explores many mediums from art to design including projects like his furniture collaboration with Domeau & Peres. He also has his own record label I am Other, which has showcased local Miami music sensation Cris Cab and Frank Ocean. He was also given the honor to co-curate the music for the 84th annual Academy Awards. Williams won his latest award earlier this year for Best Urban Contemporary Album for his production of Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange.
Robert Zarco
CATEGORY: Entrepreneur
Company: Zarco Einhorn Salkowski & Brito
INDUSTRY: Law
What Makes him Haute : Zarco’s firm, Zarco Einhorn Salkowski & Brito P.A. is recognized as one of the top franchise law firms in the United States. The firm handles all aspects of franchise, licensing and distribution law, as well as complex commercial disputes. While based in Miami as a franchise, the firm has achieved national and international recognition in the area of franchising by representing clients throughout the world including Mexico, France, Holland, Germany, Australia, New Zealand and the Caribbean. Robert has also been on the best lawyers of America list for several years.
Sean Wolfington
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: The Wolfington Companies
INDUSTRY: Technology, Real Estate, Film
WHAT MAKES hiM HAUTE: Chairman and CEO of The Wolfington Companies, Sean Wolfington is a serial entrepreneur in various industries such as technology, marketing and film. His accomplishments include building and selling four digital marketing companies for a combined enterprise value of $500 million by the age of 40, and selling his company VinSolutions to Autotrader. Wolfington’s Charitable Foundation aids the poor and enables bright futures for children through sports and the arts. Wolfington received the President’s Service Award in 2008 and the Tony Bennett Exploring the Arts award last year.
Alan and Ruth Zelcer
CATEGORY: Entrepreneurs
Company: Isaco International
INDUSTRY: Apparel
What Makes Them Haute : Alan is President and CEO of Isaco International Corp, a leading designer, distributor and licensee of a broad line of high quality men’s underwear and ties. Ruth is Vice President of Merchandising of the company. It manufactures for major retailers and branded labels such as Perry Ellis, in addition to its own brands, Papi and now Rico. Alan and Ruth are extremely involved in the community, offering support to numerous charitable foundations such as the Miami Jewish Federation, Mt. Sinai Hospital Founders, MTV Staying Alive, The Broward House, and Style Saves.
