Starwood Capital Group Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Starwood Capital Group has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Starwood Capital Group focuses on real estate investment, leveraging deep market expertise to deliver value and achieve strategic growth across diverse portfolios.

Leadership Roles at Starwood Capital Group

  • Chairman & CEO - Barry Sternlicht
  • Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer - David Volfson
  • Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds - Christopher Lowthert
  • Funds Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer - Jeff Allen
  • Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer - Nicholas Antonopoulos
  • Chief Operating Officer & Senior Managing Director - Andrew Sossen
  • Chief of Staff & President, Jonathan Pollack) - Jack Laurent
  • President - Jonathan Pollack
  • Chief Technology Officer & Managing Director - Oleg Olovyannikov
  • Barry Sternlicht - Chairman & CEO

    Barry Sternlicht, the Chairman & CEO at Starwood Capital Group, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the firm. This leadership role involves guiding all major investment decisions and operational frameworks, ensuring alignment with the company's core mission of real estate investment. Sternlicht oversees the executive team, fostering a culture of innovation and market responsiveness. The Chairman & CEO drives the firm's expansion into new markets and asset classes, maintaining a sharp focus on long-term value creation. Through strategic partnerships and rigorous financial oversight, Barry Sternlicht ensures the sustained growth and market leadership of Starwood Capital Group, impacting its global operational footprint and financial performance.

    David Volfson - Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    David Volfson, the Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Starwood Capital Group, supports the Chairman & CEO in executing strategic initiatives and managing day-to-day operations. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams, streamlining internal processes, and ensuring efficient communication across all levels of the organization. Volfson acts as a key liaison between leadership and various departments, facilitating the implementation of corporate objectives. The Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer also plays a vital part in strategic planning sessions and special projects, driving operational excellence. Through dedicated support and strategic alignment, David Volfson enhances the effectiveness of the executive leadership and contributes to Starwood Capital Group's overall performance.

    Christopher Lowthert - Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds

    Christopher Lowthert, the Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds at Starwood Capital Group, manages the financial operations and reporting for the firm's diverse fund structures. This critical position involves overseeing all aspects of fund accounting, financial planning, and capital allocation across global portfolios. Lowthert ensures robust financial controls and compliance with regulatory requirements, safeguarding investor interests. The Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds collaborates closely with investment teams to optimize financial strategies and support deal execution. By providing expert financial analysis and strategic guidance, Christopher Lowthert directly contributes to the financial health and investment success of Starwood Capital Group's managed funds.

    Jeff Allen - Funds Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer

    Jeff Allen, the Funds Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer at Starwood Capital Group, oversees the financial health and strategic direction of the firm's investment funds. This role involves managing fund accounting, financial reporting, and capital markets activities, ensuring compliance and optimizing financial performance. Allen works closely with investment teams to structure deals and manage portfolio financials, providing critical insights for decision-making. The Funds Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer also leads efforts in investor relations and capital raising, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders. Through expert financial stewardship and strategic planning, Jeff Allen significantly contributes to the success and growth of Starwood Capital Group's fund operations.

    Nicholas Antonopoulos - Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer

    Nicholas Antonopoulos, the Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer at Starwood Capital Group, directs the firm's overall financial strategy and management. This executive position involves overseeing corporate finance, treasury operations, and financial planning and analysis, ensuring fiscal discipline and strategic resource allocation. Antonopoulos plays a key role in managing the company's capital structure and financial risk, supporting sustainable growth initiatives. The Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with senior leadership to drive financial performance and achieve corporate objectives. By providing strategic financial leadership and rigorous oversight, Nicholas Antonopoulos ensures the financial stability and operational efficiency of Starwood Capital Group.
    Nicholas Antonopoulos

    Andrew Sossen - Chief Operating Officer & Senior Managing Director

    Andrew Sossen, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior Managing Director at Starwood Capital Group, directs the firm's operational infrastructure and business processes. This leadership position encompasses overseeing technology, human resources, legal, and compliance functions, ensuring seamless integration and efficiency across all departments. Sossen drives initiatives to enhance operational scalability and risk management, supporting the firm's global expansion. The Chief Operating Officer & Senior Managing Director collaborates with investment teams to streamline deal execution and portfolio management processes. By optimizing internal systems and fostering operational excellence, Andrew Sossen ensures that Starwood Capital Group maintains a robust and efficient foundation for its investment activities.
    Andrew Sossen

    Jack Laurent - Chief of Staff & President, Jonathan Pollack)

    Jack Laurent, the Chief of Staff & President, Jonathan Pollack) at Starwood Capital Group, supports executive leadership in driving strategic initiatives and operational execution. This position involves coordinating key projects, facilitating interdepartmental communication, and ensuring the efficient implementation of corporate policies. Laurent works closely with the President to advance business objectives and enhance organizational effectiveness. The Chief of Staff & President, Jonathan Pollack) also contributes to strategic planning and problem-solving, identifying opportunities for process improvement. Through dedicated support and strategic coordination, Jack Laurent strengthens the operational capacity and strategic focus of Starwood Capital Group.
    Jack Laurent

    Jonathan Pollack - President

    Jonathan Pollack, the President at Starwood Capital Group, directs the firm's strategic operations and business development efforts. This executive role involves overseeing key business units, driving revenue growth, and expanding market presence across diverse real estate sectors. Pollack collaborates with the Chairman & CEO to shape corporate strategy and ensure operational alignment with investment objectives. The President leads initiatives focused on enhancing client relationships and identifying new investment opportunities, contributing significantly to the firm's expansion. Through strategic leadership and a deep understanding of market dynamics, Jonathan Pollack drives the continued success and growth of Starwood Capital Group.
    Jonathan Pollack

    Oleg Olovyannikov - Chief Technology Officer & Managing Director

    Oleg Olovyannikov, the Chief Technology Officer & Managing Director at Starwood Capital Group, leads the firm's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. This role involves overseeing the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency and support investment strategies. Olovyannikov drives the adoption of advanced data analytics, cybersecurity measures, and IT infrastructure improvements across the organization. The Chief Technology Officer & Managing Director collaborates with business units to align technology roadmaps with strategic goals, ensuring competitive advantage. By leveraging technology expertise, Oleg Olovyannikov empowers Starwood Capital Group with cutting-edge tools for growth and operational excellence.
    Oleg Olovyannikov

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Starwood Capital Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Starwood Capital Group?
    Starwood Capital Group is led by Barry Sternlicht (Chairman & CEO), along with executives such as David Volfson (Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Christopher Lowthert (Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds).
    Who is part of Starwood Capital Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of Starwood Capital Group includes leaders such as Barry Sternlicht (Chairman & CEO), David Volfson (Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Christopher Lowthert (Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Starwood Capital Group have?
    Starwood Capital Group has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Starwood Capital Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Starwood Capital Group includes roles such as Chairman & CEO, Chief of Staff & Barry Sterlnicht) Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director, Global Chief Financial Officer of Funds, Funds Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer, Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer.