7: Edward St. John

Chairman and Founder, St. John Properties

More than five decades ago, Edward St. John founded the real estate-based St. John’s Properties. Today, the company owns, developed and constructed more than 23 million square feet of warehouse, retail, research and development, and office space throughout the country.

As a way to give back to the community, St. John founded the Edward St. John Foundation in 1998 designed to give financial help to formal education programs through the high school level. The Baltimore native has given more than $65 million through his own philanthropy as well as through his company and foundation.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Surround yourself with the best and the brightest, and don’t tolerate incompetence.

What’s been your biggest success?
My biggest success was being name the NAIOP National Developer of the Year. That is the greatest award offered within our industry – the Holy Grail!

Who have been the biggest mentors in your career?
I’ve had four influential mentors in my life; Lou Grasmick, Bill Dixon, Tom Baldwin and John Paterakis. These four individuals built tremendously successful companies, while demonstrating great leadership in business and as community partners. I considered all of them my mentors and my friends.

What are your hopes for the state or your community this year?
I hope that the state of Maryland can continue to be a leader in economic growth.

What do you do to unplug in your free time?
In the spring, summer and fall, boating is my favorite hobby. In the winter, I enjoy skiing. I find both very relaxing.

This profile is part of The Daily Record’s Power 100 list for 2023