The Most Powerful Business Leaders in Arizona for 2025 includes Michael Pollack, president and founder, Pollack Investments. Meet him here.
Michael Pollack, president and founder, Pollack Investments
Background: Pollack is a renowned Arizona real estate developer, entrepreneur and philanthropist with more than five decades of experience revitalizing communities. As president of Pollack Investments, he has developed or redeveloped over 12 million square feet of commercial projects. Known for integrity, innovation and community impact, Pollack is also deeply committed to charitable causes.
Key to success: “I think adaptability is key. Part of my success has come from being willing to turn right or left when necessary. That’s why there’s a turn signal on a steering wheel — you have to be ready to change direction. Flexibility is critical for leadership today.
Succeeding in real estate: “Success comes from being careful on the buy. Too many people think the money is made on the sale, but it’s really made on the purchase. If you overpay, you’ll struggle to catch up. I’ve always looked at the downside first: What’s the most I can lose? And I never bet the farm on a single deal. I’d rather hit a lot of singles and doubles than risk everything on a home run.”
Leadership style: “I’m a big-picture person. I don’t like details and I try not to micromanage —though my son, Robert, accuses me of it often. Sometimes I’m tempted to get into the weeds, but I work hard to let people share their thoughts and approaches. Giving people the ability to communicate is essential.”
Defining moment: “In 2006 and 2007, I decided the market was overheated. I sold almost every project I had — even those I’d already pulled permits for. That move gave us the liquidity to survive the 2008–2011 downturn without renegotiating a single loan or contract. It wasn’t easy, but it was the right call. That decision, along with my commitment to charitable work, stands out as a defining moment in my career.”
Quality needed to succeed: “Integrity has always been No. 1. I don’t believe in quick wins or short-term scores. I want everyone at the table to walk away feeling they were treated fairly and with respect. That’s how I like to be treated, and that’s how I do business.”
