Stephanie Ascher

Stephanie Ascher, VP, asset management and portfolio operations at KBS Realty Advisors, is known to setting the standard for excellence, igniting passion in others, and transforming vision into action, encouraging those around her to reach new heights and truly embodies the next generation of wealth management.  

Over her 16-year tenure at KBS, Stephanie has inspired colleagues at every stage of her journey—starting as a receptionist in the Newport Beach office. While her impact extends beyond her immediate role, fostering strong partnerships with third-party property management, leasing, due diligence, and capital markets teams, reinforcing seamless collaboration at every level. Two special projects standout: 

• Within KBS, Stephanie played a crucial role in strengthening KBS’ asset management efforts in 2024, serving as the primary liaison for a publicly traded REIT in Singapore. This achievement earned her a well-deserved promotion to her current title. 

• Outside of KBS, Stephanie is also heavily involved with the National Association for Industrial and Office Park (NAIOP). She recently graduated from NAIOP’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) leadership program. The program deepened her managerial skills and highlighted for her the importance of ensuring a job fits the chosen candidate well. In 2023, she was on the sponsorship committee, in 2024, she served as the chair and this year she is co-chairing the committee’s case competition for the CapRock Cup, which her team won in 2022 after she and the team completed underwriting for the winning project. 

Stephanie’s unique career trajectory at KBS and continued growth serve as one of her greatest career accomplishments, having inspired numerous women at the firm and throughout the commercial real estate sector. 

Starting off as a receptionist is not a common journey to gaining the experience needed to eventually help manage properties with a combined 4.7 million square feet of space. Stephanie’s diverse roles at KBS have allowed her to bridge communication gaps between departments at all levels and develop excellent leadership skills. 

Encouraged by the company’s positive promote-from-within culture, Stephanie’s strong drive to achieve excellent results was quickly noticed by the executive team who helped her transfer departments to become an investment analyst, investment associate and senior investment associate before progressing to her current executive position in 2024.  

Stephanie serves as a primary point of contact for a Singapore-based, publicly traded REIT which KBS serves as the US-based asset manager. Stephanie’s responsibilities have been integral to delivering high client and tenant satisfaction. Having previously worked with the asset manager for all Texas markets, she helped manage 16 assets in the Dallas, San Antonio, Houston and Austin markets. 

Community involvement is woven into the fabric of Stephanie’s life, extending far beyond her professional sphere. A tradition passed down through multiple generations, she and her family have been deeply committed to working with the Salvation Army for decades. With both parents and grandparents serving as pastors for the organization and her family regularly volunteering time to support Salvation Army homeless shelters, service is not just an activity but a core family value. Stephanie actively coordinates events for the organization and harbors aspirations of serving on the board of directors one day.  

Beyond her work with the Salvation Army, Stephanie is passionate about supporting women in commercial real estate. Her involvement with the Orange County Chapter of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), including recent contributions to the chapter’s SPIRE Awards gala, reflects this commitment.  

Finally, Stephanie successfully balances her demanding career, motherhood to a three-year-old son, and marriage. She embodies the challenges and triumphs of modern women. Her journey from Orange County native to acquisitions analyst in Washington, D.C. (at the personal recommendation of the firm’s regional president, no less!) and back to Orange County displays her drive and adaptability. Even with the demands of her busy life, Stephanie prioritizes giving back to the community. 

If Stephanie could leave one mark on the industry, it would be to inspire and empower the next generation of women in commercial real estate, particularly working mothers. 

She recognizes that in today’s uncertain economic environment, women are being tasked to take on greater challenges than ever before. In commercial real estate, she believes women need to be authentic and challenges others to work on their soft skills and create real connections with women in the industry. 

Stephanie also acknowledges the importance of women getting back into the workplace. She says, “Working alongside people with more knowledge or experience can be incredibly beneficial for personal and professional growth. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or admit when you don’t know something. Collaborating with others and working as a team are crucial for success.” 

She would be proud of a legacy where she helped break down barriers, foster inclusivity, and create a supportive environment where women can thrive and reach their full potential. Her mark on real estate would not just be deals and portfolios she wants to make a mark on the industry’s future for women. 

Receiving this award would not only recognize Stephanie for her outstanding contributions but also amplify her ability to inspire and lead others. Through her dedication to commercial real estate, she has consistently motivated those around her, serving as a mentor and role model. 

This award would be a pivotal moment in her career, solidifying her reputation as a leader in the CRE industry. It will open doors for new opportunities, expand her professional network, and position her for greater responsibilities and impact in the future. 

Beyond her career, the award would amplify Stephanie’s unique story in the industry – from receptionist to Vice President – would resonate even more powerfully. It would inspire women, especially working mothers, to pursue their ambitions in a field where they are often underrepresented.  

Receipt of the Connect Money Next Gen Wealth Management Award will be a testament to Stephanie’s dedication to real estate, be a catalyst for her future contributions, and send a powerful message to the next generation of female leaders. 

These are just a few reasons Stephanie Ascher was chosen as a recipient of Connect Money’s 2025 Next Generation Wealth Management Award. Now in its second year, the Next Generation Awards honor emerging leaders who are poised to significantly shape the future of the wealth management industry.