Ezra Katz

FOUNDER, AZTEC GROUP, MIAMI

Founded in 1981, Aztec Group is involved in real estate investment sales, investment and merchant banking transactions. Katz says it’s a leader in real estate transactions through investment sales and an array of debt, joint ventures and equity structures to capitalize real estate owners, developers and managers. The firm also has a philanthropic agenda.

EDUCATION: Ohio State University (BS)

READING: Musk, by Walter Isaacson

INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: Stuart Miller, the chief executive of Lennar. Stuart and I met in 1983 when we collaborated on a real estate transaction. Stuart is a most ethical community leader and philanthropist who has contributed his personal time and resources on behalf of many not-for-profit initiatives. 

MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: Work hard. Maintain the highest ethical standards. Say 'I don’t know' when you’re unsure of the right answer. Always give back to your community.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED: Stay loyal to your family, friends and business associates regardless of differences of opinions. Never allow politics to guide your moral compass.

IF I WERE GOVERNOR
“I would improve the efficiency of processing permits or certification within all building, health care and regulatory agencies.”