
Denholtz Associates CEO Steven Denholtz Receives NJBIZ ICON Award
Denholtz Associates, a privately held, fully integrated real estate development, investment, and management company, announced that its CEO, Steven Denholtz, has been awarded an NJBIZ ICON Award. This award celebrates Steven’s long career in expanding Denholtz Associates and his significant contributions to the New Jersey business community. Steven accepted the award at a ceremony on August 23rd at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset, N.J.
The NJBIZ ICON Awards recognize business leaders in New Jersey over the age of 60 who have achieved notable success and demonstrated strong leadership within their industries and in the wider business community. Steven exemplifies these traits through a 30-year career in real estate, guiding Denholtz Associates with vision and resilience through challenging business cycles.
Since joining Denholtz Associates in 1983, Steven has overseen the company's growth from a small operation into an organization employing over 75 real estate professionals. Under his leadership, the company has doubled its portfolio across New Jersey and Florida. Steven’s focus on creating spaces for business growth has contributed significantly to the revitalization of Red Bank, N.J., where the firm has multiple projects aimed at enhancing the area’s vibrancy as a walkable, urban destination.
“Over 25 years of working together, I’ve seen Steven build Denholtz Associates into one of New Jersey’s premier real estate investment firms while staying true to the values on which we were founded,” said Stephen Cassidy, President of Denholtz Associates. “His ethical, responsible, and strategic approach inspires our team daily. I am fortunate to work alongside Steven and continue learning from one of New Jersey’s brightest real estate minds.”
Beyond his leadership role at Denholtz Associates, Steven serves on the Advisory Council for the Kislak Real Estate Institute at Monmouth University, where he mentors emerging real estate professionals. He also holds prominent roles in the real estate community, including positions as a Board Member of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Treasurer of the New Jersey Chapter of NAIOP, and Board Member of Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations.
Under Steven's leadership, Denholtz Associates has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Building of the Year Award (TOBY) from BOMA for 30 Montgomery Street in Jersey City. The firm also received the NAIOP New Jersey Chapter Impact Award and was recognized as an NJBIZ 2017 Business of the Year honoree, as well as NJBIZ’s #2 Best Place to Work in New Jersey among medium-sized companies.
Throughout his career, Steven has partnered with leaders across real estate, banking, and construction, emphasizing ethical and responsible business practices that have earned him a reputation as a trusted and innovative leader in New Jersey’s real estate industry.
Testimonials from Industry Peers
Chris Martin, CEO of Provident Bank: “Steve’s entrepreneurial spirit and thoughtful approach have been instrumental in the growth of Denholtz. His commitment to community service and partnership with Provident Bank are remarkable.”
Jon Mikula, Senior Managing Director at Holliday Fenoglio Fowler: “Steven’s passion for real estate and creative problem-solving are inspiring. He continually gives back to the industry by mentoring the next generation.”
David Zimmel, President of Zimmel Associates: “Steve’s loyalty and skill in identifying and closing solid real estate deals are unmatched in the industry.”
Jerry Zaro, Chair at Sills Cummis and Gross: “Steven embodies work ethic, integrity, and compassion—qualities that make him a true ICON in New Jersey’s business community.”
Patrick Ryan, CEO of First Bank: “Steve has been a loyal supporter of First Bank, providing both deposits and quality loans that have helped us grow. Our partnership has strengthened over the years.”
David W. Bernhaut, Vice Chairman at Cushman & Wakefield: “Steven’s mix of creativity, integrity, and calculated risk-taking has propelled Denholtz Associates’ success over the years.”
Todd E. Lehder, Shareholder at Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer: “Steve’s practical approach, vision, and execution have led to his long-term success and established him as a true NJ business ICON.”
Christopher D. Maher, CEO of OceanFirst Bank: “Congratulations to Steven for his contributions to both the real estate and nonprofit communities. His work has positively impacted many organizations.”
Steven Schultz, Executive Managing Director at Newmark Knight Frank: “I take great pride in working with Steven. His professionalism and integrity make him an outstanding leader in New Jersey’s real estate sector.”