Spotlight Series: Herschel Bender

My responses reflect my opinions and views and do not reflect the views of Mack Real Estate Group.

I grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I went to the University of Michigan for undergrad and received my MBA from Columbia in NY. I am currently the Executive Director at Mack Real Estate group, where I have been working in real estate investments and asset management for over 10 years. I have been married to my wife for 5 years and we have two young boys. 

Los Angeles has many diverse neighborhoods, and you've chosen to invest here. Why the Social District?

The Social District is at the center of a rare intersection between global entertainment (Crypto Arena and L.A. Live) and a growing residential neighborhood. The Social District has always been one of L.A.'s best work/live/play markets and we expect that to continue to be true as the City prepares for the 2028 Olympics.

When you're not working, what do you love to do in the Social District?

I really enjoy the sporting events at Cypto.com and the many restaurants spread throughout the Social District.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of The Social District in the next 5-10 years? What are your hopes and aspirations for the community?

Finding a solution to the Oceanwide Plaza project is key for the Social District to be able to reach its potential. As it stands today, it creates a difficult barrier between the entertainment center at Crypto.com Arena and L.A. Live. Hopefully, this can be resolved soon and the commercial success of Crypto.com Arena and L.A. Live can spill into the residential area of the Social District, leading to increased ground floor retail occupancy and more neighborhood amenities for the residents. Once the Social District is unburdened by the Oceanwide Plaza barrier, the District can achieve an unbroken connection between global entertainment and a welcoming residential neighborhood.

How are you a part of shaping the future of The Social District?

As an investor, asset manager, and South Park BID board member, I am always thinking about ways to improve the safety and livability of the Social District. I look forward to continuing to work with the Social District stakeholders to make the area a great place to live, work, and play.

The Social District hosts a lot of events, from awards shows to sporting events to concerts. What's an event you'd want front row seats to attend and where in The Social District would you go before or after
the big event?

Red Hot Chili Peppers concert. Pine and Crane for dinner before. Back home to my kids after!