Employee Exclusive: Get to Know Lilly Kazeminia
1. What does a typical day as a Partner of Business Development at CMTA look like for you?
I usually start my mornings reviewing project pipelines, identifying opportunities that align with our expertise, and working closely with both local and national teams to strategize how we can bring the most value to our clients. I’ll also connect with existing and potential clients, research any upcoming budgets or projects, and check in with my team to review what proposals we have in the works. In between, I always make time for more coffee or to check my snack drawer. Every day is a little different, and I love it that way.
2. What drew you to a career in business development, and what keeps you passionate about it?
It’s all about people and relationships. I started my career doing value-add investments and acquisitions at Prologis. I really enjoyed being the trusted developer and took pride in being able to point to a building that I built. I realized that I love roles where I can connect with people, listen to their challenges, and create solutions that make a difference, and that was when I decided to move back to Florida and begin my career in business development (BD) with OCI Associates (now CMTA). I still get to point out our buildings, and I love being part of a team that helps shape communities through our projects and seeing how our work contributes to sustainability, innovation, and quality of life.
3. How has merging with CMTA after working at OCI Associates changed your approach to business development?
In the best possible way. At OCI, I focused primarily on the Florida market, working closely with clients and tailoring our solutions to their specific needs. Merging with CMTA expanded my reach and gave me access to a broader network of expertise, resources, and innovative approaches. We’re now a national leader in the industry. It’s taught me the importance of leveraging collective strengths while staying rooted in the personal, relationship-driven approach that I valued at OCI. I’m super grateful for how this transition has broadened my horizons.
4. Business development often revolves around building strong relationships. What’s your secret to creating lasting client connections?
There’s no secret that it lies in authenticity, listening, and a genuine commitment to their success. I build trust, and I care. I do my best to stay consistent. I make it a priority to stay connected with clients even when there’s no immediate project on the horizon, ensuring they know I’m personally invested in their future. I am always grateful for the trust clients place in us, and I never take those relationships for granted. My goal is to be their go-to partner by creating value and fostering relationships that feel like a partnership rather than a transaction. And most importantly, I have fun doing what I do and I’m so fortunate to have made meaningful friendships through business.
5. What does your ideal Saturday look like?
My ideal Saturday would start with a giant cup of coffee and a Pilates class at my favorite studio, a nice lunch with a friend on Park Avenue in Winter Park where I live, and just being able to spend time with my husband and family, plus our chunky Persian cat. My husband and I like to go on long walks around our neighborhood in the evenings, and we’ll sometimes walk over to my parents' house for dinner.
