JEFF KLOTZ

FOUNDER & CEO, THE KLOTZ GROUP OF COS., PONTE VEDRA BEACH

Founded in 1995 by Klotz, The Klotz Group of Companies manages a portfolio valued at over $5 billion, employs more than 1,000 people and has owned and operated over 125,000 apartment units. Its subsidiaries are engaged in brokerage, mortgage banking, property management, construction, real estate development, investment banking, insurance and digital marketing. The Klotz Foundation provides crucial financial support, scholarships and resources to children and families of firefighters, police officers, paramedics and frontline heroes during times of crisis.

EDUCATION: University of Florida (BS)

FIRST JOB: At age 12, I began my entrepreneurial journey, scouring the neighborhood for odd jobs like pressure washing, lawn care and auto detailing. My first official W-2 job came at 14 when I started working in the produce section at our local Winn-Dixie grocery store where I was later invited to intern at the corporate office.

SOMETHING SURPRISING: I’ve been writing a book since I began my entrepreneurial journey at age 18. Initially, these were notes of meaningful moments, evolving into detailed lessons learned and reflective journaling. Twenty years ago, I started preserving these writings intentionally for the purpose of becoming a book — my legacy of life’s lessons for my children and grandchildren, ensuring they’re guided by experiences they may not directly witness.

PASSION PROJECT: As an avid outdoorsman, my passion is developing my nearly 1,000-acre Florida ranch into an agri resort, featuring diverse livestock, equine activities, hunting, fishing, off-road trails and sustainable agriculture.

INDUSTRY TREND: Multifamily housing was once a niche sector — exclusive and challenging — reserved for the persistent few willing to tackle its complexities. Today, it’s become mainstream, crowded and competitive. Apartments have transformed significantly, now offering luxury and high-quality amenities that rival homeownership lifestyles, dramatically shifting perceptions of rental living.