“I transitioned into development and never looked back” — Johanna Chervak on building with purpose

Shaping NJ & PA’s logistics landscape: Crow Holdings Development VP leads industrial growth

Tell us how and when you began your career.

I started as marketing and leasing manager for a luxury apartment community in Boston in 1993 and then ventured into commercial real estate in Manhattan, first serving as lease administrator with Emmes Asset Management. I then joined Rockefeller Group in 1999 as assistant property manager of 1271 Avenue of the Americas, marking the beginning of my 21-year tenure with the company. I rose to manager of real estate services while pursuing my Master’s at NYU’s Schack Institute of Real Estate. In 2005, I transitioned into development and never looked back. I eventually rose to the position of director, managing several commercial projects totaling over 500,000 s/f in New Jersey and 1.9 MSF of industrial development in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.

What is your current role?

As Vice President, Industrial with Crow Holdings Development’s Northeast office, I manage industrial development projects from concept to disposition. Since 2020, this includes 2 MSF of completed and in-progress properties in New Jersey and Pennsylvania – where we are in active growth mode.

Over the past 12 months, what are your top highlights?

We’ve successfully completed multiple high-profile transactions, including our 1 MSF, full-building lease with Logistics Plus Inc. at Millstone 8 Logistics Center. In Philadelphia, Martin Brower – a global leader in supply chain solutions – pre-leased a 147,000 s/f building at Crow Holdings at I-95, resulting in a spec-to-suit, tri-temp cold storage facility and earning recognition from Philadelphia Business Journal as one of the Best Real Estate Deals of 2024.

We’re preparing to deliver the building to Martin Brower this fall, while continuing to expand our Philadelphia footprint nearby. In August, we acquired 2748 Grant Avenue and just started construction of a fully approved, 103,500 s/f, Class A warehouse/distribution center, with an anticipated mid-2026 delivery.

Who has been the strongest influence on your career?

I’ve been fortunate to benefit from the guidance, mentorship and influence of several individuals who have helped shape my professional journey. In particular, I’d like to thank Les Smith, Jr., who welcomed me onto his team at Rockefeller Group, mentoring me throughout my career as a developer. Les led by example, shaping my approach to leadership and influencing how I interact with others. I also wish to express my gratitude to Clark Machemer, with whom I worked alongside for 13 years, learning to navigate complex projects and unexpected challenges. Their unwavering support and confidence have been instrumental in helping me get to where I am today. And now I have the pleasure of continuing to work with Clark, as he leads Crow Holdings Development’s Northeast industrial team.

What qualities make you most successful in your profession?

Throughout my career, integrity has been a guiding principle, and one I credit for much of my success. Development projects directly impact the surrounding communities and sometimes, even, people’s backyards. Making a sincere effort to minimize negative impacts and delivering on promises with unwavering commitment and transparency along the way is not just important – for me, it’s essential.