Mimai Today Profile Jackie Soffer

Though Jackie Soffer was hesitant to join the family business, she is now committed to her father’s mission of making Turnberry Associates provide more than just real estate to its consumers.
In the ’80s, her father, Donald Soffer, gave a social flair to his projects, inviting celebrities to lavish events to generate media attention and drive sales. “We don’t just offer people stores to shop in or a condo to live in; we create a social atmosphere,” Ms. Soffer said. She believes that creating interactive spaces is a way to give back to the community.
Ms. Soffer is focusing on improving Turnberry’s properties, and would rather elevate the customer experience than grow too quickly. Creating great products and knowing areas in need of an upgrade are on the top of her agenda. Though Aventura Mall is one of the five largest malls in the nation, Turnberry is always looking for ways to enhance the amenities. “I’ve always felt we were short on food here, so a big focus during the expansion is bringing in great restaurants,” Ms. Soffer said.
SoLē Mia, Turberry’s joint project with the Le Franc family, is a “live, work, play community” where residents can enjoy all South Florida has to offer without leaving the site and hitting traffic jams, Ms. Soffer said.
When it comes to inspiration, Ms. Soffer draws from her travel experiences. She visits international museums, malls and city centers for ideas to improve Turnberry’s projects and offer a complete cultural immersion experience.
Ms. Soffer is always looking for ways to incorporate art into projects, bringing museum-quality art to spaces everyone can enjoy.
Turnberry’s mission to converge social and cultural elements to its projects resonates with Ms. Soffer. She is a board member of the Institute of Contemporary Art and is personally invested in preserving the environment for future generations.
Miami Today reporter Gabi Maspons interviewed Ms. Soffer in Aventura Mall. The interview was recorded by videographer Jahmoukie Dayle, and can be found at bit.ly/2uNHy0Q.
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