Member Spotlight: Bobbi Jo Lazarus

Professional Background

Current Role & Company: What is your current position, and what does your company specialize in?

As a Shareholder with Elliott Davis, I provide tax strategy and advisory services to real estate developers and funds. With a forward-thinking approach, we deliver value-added solutions that leverage the firm’s real estate and consulting expertise. Beyond customer service, I focus on business development, operational efficiencies, and mentorship, helping to strengthen both our team and customer relationships. I am also deeply committed to industry advocacy, actively engaging in leadership roles to ensure customers stay ahead of regulatory changes and market dynamics in this ever-evolving landscape.

Career Path: How did you get started in commercial real estate, and what led you to where you are today?

I joined Elliott Davis in June of 2008, just 6 months after we came into the Charlotte market. Initially, I dabbled in our banking industry, but after touching my first real estate customer, I immediately knew where I was meant to be. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside several developers, helping them navigate the tax landscape, as they brought projects to life. My career has grown in parallel with Charlotte’s evolution as a real estate hub, leading the firm’s real estate practice from 2017-2024 and now working to expand our reach into markets like Nashville and Raleigh.

Industry Insights: What’s one trend or challenge in commercial real estate that excites or concerns you?

The growing collaboration between the business community and government leadership to address the challenges that shape our region’s growth has real power. The impact of coming together around a common goal and staying focused on removing hurdles and inefficiencies, sets us up for success for long-term and sustainable growth. The recently passed Transportation Referendum is a perfect example of what can happen when stakeholders come together around a shared vision.

Looking into 2026, I’m excited about the work we are doing to launch a developer-led statewide initiative allowing us to align early and collaborate with a singular voice as we proactively partner with leadership in Raleigh to help shape policies that support smart growth and strengthen North Carolina’s competitive edge.

 

Involvement in NAIOP

Role in the Association: What is your role within NAIOP Charlotte, and how long have you been involved?

As the incoming 2026 President of NAIOP Charlotte, I’ve had the privilege to serve on our board for several years, including working with leaders from the other NC chapters on planning for the state conference and serving on NAIOP National’s Tax and Finance Committee.

Why You Joined: What motivated you to join NAIOP?

I joined NAIOP intrigued by the opportunity to engage with our legislative leaders. Our industry has a powerful story to tell, and NAIOP provides the platform to make sure the commercial real state community has a strong, informed and unified voice at the table. Being part of this organization allows me to contribute to the conversations that shape policy, not just in Charlotte, but also at the state and federal level.

Advice for New Members: What advice would you give to someone considering joining or getting more involved?

Jump in. Find what you’re passionate about and bring that voice to the table. NAIOP thrives when members lean into the issues that matter most to them. Your involvement helps shape the future of commercial real estate in our region.

Favorite Event/Initiative: What is your favorite event or initiative within NAIOP and why?

Hands down, our annual trips to Raleigh and DC to meet with our legislators. There is something different about the relationships you forge walking the halls of those historic buildings side-by-side with others that are just as passionate about the commercial real estate industry and getting to share our passion with leaders both here in North Carolina and those representing us in DC.

 

Personal & Fun Insights

Hidden Talent or Fun Fact: What’s something people might not know about you?

Something most people might not know is that I was a volunteer firefighter while in college following the events of 9/11. I was a freshman when the tragic events of that day unfolded, and it sparked a deep desire to serve that has turned into a lasting passion for the first responder community. I’ve been able to continue that commitment serving today as a civilian volunteer on Charlotte’s Incident Management Team and as a board member for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Foundation.

Best Piece of Advice: What’s the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t be afraid to see it through. Learning to grind through the tough moments builds resilience and experience that you can’t get any other way. Not every day, week, or year will be smooth, but sticking with a team or company through the ups and downs can have a tremendous impact on your development and future success.

Book/Podcast Recommendation: What’s a book or podcast that has influenced your career or leadership style?

I have a wide range of podcasts that I bounce between. However, when I really need to circle around an issue, I typically find myself listening to Shawn Ryan’s interviews with military leaders.

Words to Live By: Do you have a personal mantra or philosophy that guides your approach to work and life?

In college I hit a crossroad between enjoying the challenge of accounting and having a passion for firefighting. I had a professor tell me I couldn’t work for a successful CPA firm and stay involved in the first responder world. One day, I’ll send him a note to thank him for the motivation that came from being told I couldn’t do something. From that moment, I never put boundaries on what my career had to look like, I just kept following what I loved. That mindset has shaped everything I do. I like to say, “God’s calling on your life is not a conference call and is not meant for everyone to understand.”