Monica Lorenzo, the eldest of eight, is not just a promising young leader in Torre Lorenzo Development Corp (TLDC): she is a force of innovation.
Monica brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic vision to her role as Business Development Manager & Director of Leisure Development.
Her diverse experience — spanning from consumer goods giant Unilever to the tech-driven world of Spotify — honed her leadership skills and instilled a forward-thinking mindset that is now helping drive TLDC’s future.
A family affair
Monica joined TLDC in July 2023. She sees working with her father – TLDC founder and CEO Tomas Lorenzo – as a unique advantage.
“You know what your dad thinks and how his mind works because that’s what you grew up with,” she shares.
This understanding has fostered a dynamic father-daughter partnership.
Monica and Tomas’ relationship is characterized by candor and a shared commitment to the family business. “It’s our name on the building,” Monica explains.
This has fostered a deep understanding and respect for each other’s perspectives, creating a foundation for open communication and collaborative decision-making.
“Everything is very thought out. Everything has a place,” she says, describing her father’s meticulous approach to design and development.
From Unilever to Wharton
Monica’s four years at Unilever provided a deep understanding of branding, marketing, and the complexities of working within a large organization.
“There are only so many ways you can make laundry soap or shampoo glamorous,” she says, highlighting the importance of storytelling to engage audiences.
Her decision to pursue an MBA at Wharton (specializing in real estate) was driven by a desire to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and its global trends.
Monica highlights the value of learning from a developed market like the US to inform TLDC’s future direction. Wharton’s dedicated real estate department provided a unique platform to delve into the intricacies of the industry.
(Her father Tomas took his MBA in the same university, taking up Finance and Entrepreneurial Management.)
Tech-driven interlude
Monica’s internship at Spotify provided a valuable glimpse into the world of tech-driven innovation.
“Tech companies in the US are run very differently,” she notes, highlighting the agility and adaptability of organizations like Spotify.
This experience further solidified her belief in the importance of embracing change and constantly seeking new ways to improve.
A powerful partnership
Monica’s collaboration with her father Tomas is a key driver of TLDC’s success. Their unique perspectives and complementary skill sets create a powerful dynamic that blends tradition with innovation.
While Tomas brings decades of experience and a proven track record of success, Monica’s insights ensure that TLDC remains relevant and adaptable to the evolving market.
This blend of tradition and innovation allows TLDC to maintain its reputation for quality and prestige while simultaneously catering to the needs of a new generation of residents and investors.
While Tomas’ vision was shaped by the real estate landscape of his era, Monica’s approach is rooted in anticipating the needs of the future.
A vision for the next generation
Monica’s vision for TLDC is rooted in the company’s tagline, “Designing for Tomorrow.”
“Our heads are already operating as if it’s 2035,” she reveals, highlighting her forward-thinking approach.
This vision is evident in her work on projects like Vertica, the company’s newest university residence in Sampaloc.
Monica emphasizes the need to cater to the evolving needs of younger generations, shifting away from traditional design elements and incorporating more social spaces and modern amenities.
Her forward-thinking mindset is evident in her approach to every aspect of TLDC’s projects:
She recognizes that USB-A is outdated technology and advocates for investing in USB-C charging ports instead.
She understands that the rise of food delivery services like Grab has changed how college students live, and pushes for a re-evaluation of kitchen design.
She emphasizes the importance of common areas and social spaces in student residences, recognizing that younger generations value community and social interaction.
A leader for tomorrow
Monica Lorenzo is a testament to the power of a strong work ethic, a forward-thinking vision, and a genuine passion for learning.
“We are very lucky in TLDC. There are more women than men in the whole company, which is very rare in real estate,” Monica notes.
As a millennial woman leading within a multi-generational workforce, Monica brings a refreshing perspective and a commitment to inclusivity. She is a vocal advocate for women in leadership, encouraging them to speak up and make their voices heard.
“Don’t be afraid to make your presence felt. A lot of times, women just take anything from anyone and find it difficult to speak up,” Monica says thoughtfully.
“Even if it’s hard, we should be able to say ‘no’,” she says, emphasizing the importance of female voices in leadership.
Monica Lorenzo is not just designing for tomorrow — she is continuing a legacy while building her own.
