Early Life
Bernard Francis Saul II was born on April 15, 1932, into a family with a strong entrepreneurial background. He is the grandson of Bernard Francis Saul, the founder of Saul Centers. Saul attended Villanova University and earned an LLB from the University of Virginia School of Law.
Rise to Success
Saul's career took a pivotal turn in June 1993, when he became the Chairman and CEO of Saul Centers, a private real estate firm. Under his leadership, the company has expanded significantly, cementing its position in the real estate market. Saul transformed the B.F. Saul Company, initially a mortgage and property firm founded by his grandfather, into a publicly traded REIT managing millions of square feet of office and retail space.
Key Business Strategies
Saul Centers' primary strategy involves internal growth and renovations of community and neighborhood shopping centers, primarily serving the day-to-day necessities and services sector. The company also selectively develops new properties and acquires existing ones. Saul's leadership emphasizes a focus on properties in the Washington, D.C./Baltimore area, creating a strong local presence and in-house property management to control costs and maintain quality.
Philanthropy
Saul is a dedicated supporter of Roman Catholic causes and received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal from the Pope in 1991, recognizing his commitment to charitable endeavors.