2025 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Nana Larbi-Tieku, Denham Wolf Real Estate Services

“It’s my pleasure to nominate Nana Larbi-Tieku. As Project Manager at Denham Wolf, Nana is an invaluable leader and trusted client liaison. His expertise spans complex construction, vendor management, and sustainability upgrades. Nana’s steadfast commitment to improving communication between multi-disciplinary teams, his diligence in helping organizations assess their options to make informed decisions, and his commitment to excellence make him a standout professional and rising star.” - Ronzard Innocent, Principal / Managing Director, Project Management Services, Denham Wolf Real Estate Services.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? One of the recent projects I’m especially proud of is the Osborne Fulton Community Reentry Center in the Bronx. This facility supports men transitioning back into society after incarceration. While the project concluded in the fall of 2024, our involvement continues, which allows me to visit the site and witness the positive impacts firsthand. It was a challenging endeavor, but I’m thrilled we were able to deliver a project that truly makes a difference in the community.

What is your top advice for someone just starting out in your field? The most valuable advice I can share with someone starting a career in construction management is to get out in the field as much as possible. Take every chance to visit construction sites and ask plenty of questions. If you want to succeed in this profession, it is essential to understand how projects are built, from start to finish. Additionally, building relationships with experienced professionals offers invaluable insights and mentorships that will guide you along the way.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? When I started my career in construction management, I initially lacked any formal knowledge or training in the field, which made it difficult to secure opportunities. To overcome this, I focused on self-development, enrolling in continuing education courses, and participating in networking events. These experiences were crucial in helping me immerse myself in the industry and broaden my understanding. The absence of a traditional background taught me a valuable lesson in perseverance and non-conventional paths to success.

Who has been pivotal in your professional development, and how have they influenced you? In my professional journey, one of the most influential figures has been John Rusk. As the owner of a general contracting firm in New York, he introduced me to construction management. John’s expertise was invaluable, he educated me on market trends and offered guidance on areas to focus on in my research. His encouragement and the wealth of knowledge he shared inspired me to pursue a career in this field. I am grateful for his guidance, which has been pivotal in shaping my understanding of the industry.