The sixth edition of Getting to Know Who’s NEXT features Marijana Schwärzler, Founder of immo-gap ag.

Immo-gap supports property owners and investors in managing their real estate portfolios—whether on an interim basis, bridging leadership gaps within their organization, or by taking over the asset management of partial or entire portfolios. The firm provides strategic advice on optimizing real estate projects and helps develop tailored solutions to meet clients’ specific needs.

Marijana firmly believes that with the right focus, extraordinary results can be achieved, ultimately allowing clients to free up valuable time for what truly matters in life.

Prior to founding immo-gap ag, Marijana served as Director of External Fund Management at SIGNA Financial Services AG and held portfolio and asset management roles at SF Urban Properties AG. She holds a master’s degree in Real Estate Management from the University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland (FHO) and is also a federally certified real estate trustee.

In the following Q&A, Marijana explores her passion for the commercial real estate industry and her experiences with ULI.

Q1. ULI: So many of us in real estate fall into the industry and hence commercial real estate professional organisations. How did you get involved with ULI?

ULI only made its way to Switzerland in 2014. By that time, I had already completed my master’s degree and was actively engaged with other organisations. It wasn’t until 2022 that I became a member—primarily at the recommendation of my then-supervisor, who was well acquainted with ULI from Germany and spoke of it in the highest terms. Looking back, I have never regretted my decision; on the contrary, I am deeply grateful to be part of such an esteemed network.

Q2. ULI: What is the most interesting project you’ve worked on over your career in real estate?

One of the most exciting challenges I faced was establishing a Luxembourg-based real estate fund with a primary focus on Austria – all while operating from Switzerland. Although we had strong ties to the Austrian market, we needed to immerse ourselves in the local landscape, build relationships with key stakeholders, and earn their trust to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Q3. ULI: What challenges do you face at this point in your career?

As a newly minted entrepreneur, I am currently acquiring a diverse set of skills that go far beyond those I previously needed in my career. Transitioning from executing tasks to generating business has pushed me out of my comfort zone. While I have the privilege of evolving and realising my full potential, the journey is also demanding and fraught with uncertainty.

Q4. ULI: What are you most excited about regarding the industry’s future?

I am eager to see how our living and working spaces will evolve in response to a variety of influencing factors—ranging from digital advancements and market-driven regulations to the shifting dynamics of our lifestyles. The interplay of these elements will undoubtedly shape the way we design, experience, and interact with the spaces around us in the years to come.

Q5. ULI: ULI: What are you currently reading/watching? 

On a personal note, I am currently reading The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. Professionally, my focus is on Praktischer Ratgeber für kollektive Immobilienanlagen. I also enjoy listening to various podcasts, as they offer the flexibility to accompany me wherever I go.

Check out the past Getting to know who’s NEXT articles here.