Ran Eliasaf, Founder and Managing Partner, Northwind Group and Board Member of American Friends of NATAL – Ran founded Northwind Group in 2008 and oversees all company investment activities. Throughout his career, Ran has executed 200+ real estate transactions totaling over $4 billion, investing in CRE properties in NYC and healthcare & senior living properties across the US. In 2017 Ran spearheaded the creation of Northwind’s credit platform including the formation of Northwind’s discretionary closed-ended debt funds with over $2 billion in AUM. Under Ran’s leadership Northwind has evolved into a reputable institutional grade private equity firm, consistently improving its capabilities, expanding its operations, know-how and industry recognition, while adhering to strict core values of honesty and transparency. Ran is a sought-after speaker in the NYC real estate community and is frequently quoted by several real estate news outlets. Prior to forming Northwind Group, Ran led the real estate activities of a family office and invested in a portfolio of grocery anchored shopping centers of over 5 million sq. ft. located in Florida and Texas.
Ran is a retired Captain of the Israeli Navy. He currently sits on the Board of AFN, a non-profit organization providing vital assistance to army veterans and civilians suffering from PTSD and on the board of American Friend of Unistream which supports entrepreneurship programs in the periphery of Israel. He is passionate about real estate, surfing and most importantly serving as a good role model to his three children.
Maayan Aviv joined American Friends of NATAL (AFN) as Executive Director in 2023, bringing with her 15 years of dedicated service and expertise in the Jewish non-profit sector. With a background in international relations, Maayan brings a wealth of knowledge in strategic planning, community partnerships, fundraising, stewardship and marketing. Deeply committed to AFN’s mission, she continues to lead the charge in ensuring global health and fostering resilient societies. Prior to her work at AFN, Maayan served as the Executive Director of American Friends of ALYN Hospital, a leading pediatric rehabilitation facility. Maayan is a proud Israeli-American now residing in New Jersey with her husband, two children and dog.
Connect with Ran and Maayan on LinkedIn
Interview Questions:
Introduction| We at AFN are so grateful for your ongoing support and involvement—it truly makes a difference. I’m excited to dive into some of the great work you’ve been doing at Northwind and explore how we can continue to grow our partnership. But first, how have you been?
About Northwind Group | It would be great if you could share a bit about Northwind Group. I know that throughout your career, you’ve executed 200+ real estate transactions totaling over $4 billion, investing in CRE properties in NYC and healthcare & senior living properties across the US. Can you tell us a bit more?
Israeli Navy | Tell us about your time as a Captain of the Israeli Navy.
Re & Philanthropy | Let’s take a moment to talk about the main theme of this interview. The importance of philanthropy in the real estate industry. How does philanthropy align with your business objectives in the real estate sector?
Personal Motivation | I’ve always been curious, what personally drives you to integrate philanthropy so deeply into your business model?
Philanthropy & Biz Growth | Have you found that your philanthropic efforts contribute to your business growth or brand reputation? If so, how?
Success Stories | Do you have a favorite success story or a particularly rewarding experience from your philanthropic efforts that you’d like to share?
Advice | What advice would you give to a real estate company that’s looking to engage more deeply on philanthropic endeavors?
Northwind Group, founded in 2008 by Ran Eliasaf, is a Manhattan based real estate private equity firm with $3 billion in AUM that invests primarily in debt instruments through its discretionary closed-ended debt funds. For further information, go to www.northwind-group.com.
Recent News: https://www.northwind-group.com/news
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