Early Life
Jorge M. Pérez was born on October 17, 1949, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Cuban parents of Spanish descent. In 1959, his family moved from Cuba to Bogotá, Colombia, where they lived for several years before relocating to Miami in 1968. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Long Island University (C.W. Post Campus) in 1972 and a master's degree in urban planning from the University of Michigan in 1976.
Rise to Success
Pérez began his career as an Economic Development Director with the city of Miami. In 1979, he co-founded The Related Group with Stephen M. Ross. Initially, the company focused on building affordable housing, becoming the largest affordable housing builder in Florida. Pérez expanded into rental apartments and high-rise condo developments in the southern United States. The Related Group has built projects in Argentina, Brazil, Panama, Uruguay, and Mexico. He has developed or owned 50 condo towers in South Florida, Fort Myers, and Las Vegas.
Key Business Strategies
Pérez's key strategies include a focus on high-end projects, incorporating amenities and museum-quality art, and diversifying development locations. He emphasizes attention to detail, on-time project completion, and strong relationships with architects and designers. His firm is known for its innovative design and environments that celebrate culture and active lifestyles.
Philanthropy
Pérez is a dedicated philanthropist, particularly in the arts. In December 2011, he donated $35 million in cash and art to the Miami Art Museum, which was subsequently renamed the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). In 2016, he donated 200 works of Cuban contemporary art to the museum and pledged an additional $10 million. In 2024, Pérez and his wife donated a $10 million condo to the Miami Foundation, with the proceeds to support local causes. The Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation was launched in 2015 to support arts and culture, health and well-being, education, the environment, and economic development.