REPUBLIC FUNDING - Key Persons


Aaron Nehmadi

Job Titles:
  • Associate
  • Investment Associate
Aaron Nehmadi is an Investment Associate at Republic Investment Company, responsible for meticulous deal underwriting and due diligence. He has been instrumental in the firm's expansion into the hospitality sector, overseeing the acquisition of three prominent Midtown New York hotels. With prior experience in asset management, land use consulting, and investment sales, Aaron brings a versatile perspective to his role. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Real Estate from New York University, complemented by a minor in Psychology. Beyond his professional endeavors, Aaron is an avid tennis player and enjoys hiking with friends. With his expertise, dedication, and diverse skill set, Aaron Nehmadi contributes to Republic Investment Company's continued growth and success in the competitive real estate market.

Ben Bindell

Job Titles:
  • Partner
With over 20 years of specialized expertise in entrepreneurship and investment, Benjamin Bindell has a strong focus on real estate development, multifamily properties, and hospitality. Known for his ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities, Benjamin has played a pivotal role in driving the success and growth of various real estate projects and investments.

Ben Nehmadi - Founder

Job Titles:
  • Founder
  • Managing Principal
  • Principal
Ben Nehmadi is the esteemed founder and managing principal of Republic Investment Company. With a visionary approach and unparalleled expertise, Mr. Nehmadi embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 1983, laying the foundation for the company's remarkable success.

Clinnie Conley

Job Titles:
  • Office Manager

Evan Nehmadi

Job Titles:
  • Asset Manager
  • Asset Management Associate
Evan Nehmadi is an Asset Manager at Republic Investment Company, responsible for overseeing the optimal performance of all assets in the company's portfolio. His responsibilities include overseeing property management teams, supervising capital improvements, and maximizing occupancy. Previously, Mr. Nehmadi has held roles in hospitality, property management, and venture capital. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Real Estate from New York University, and enjoys swimming, playing chess, and researching technology trends in his free time.

Frank Zuo - Chief Investment Officer

Job Titles:
  • Chief Investment Officer
Mr. Zuo is the Chief Investment Officer at Republic Investment. He has been with the company for over 15 years with in-depth experience and primary responsibilities in acquisitions, dispositions, financial structuring, and asset management.

Joshua Kelfer - CFO

Job Titles:
  • CFO
  • Controller
Joshua Kelfer serves as CFO & Controller at Republic Investment Company. He is responsible for overseeing the accounting department as well as advising management on financial and tax related matters. Previously Mr. Kelfer worked at a regional CPA firm where he focused on entity taxation, specifically those involved in the Real Estate industry. Mr. Kelfer attended California State University Northridge where he graduated with a B.S. in Accounting and M.S. in Taxation. Mr. Kelfer is currently licensed as a CPA in California and is a AICPA and CalCPA member. In his free time Mr. Kelfer enjoys to spend his time outdoors hiking, and participating in other high adventure activities.

Justin Kunkle

Job Titles:
  • Head of Development
Justin Kunkle is a Southern California native and fourth generation builder based in Los Angeles. He earned his bachelor's degree at the University of Colorado, Boulder and his master's degree at the University of Hawaii, Manoa. His career includes construction supervision, management and contracting work in California for twenty five years. He was also a key person in the startup of two construction companies that enjoyed tremendous growth and success during his time with them. Prior to joining Republic Investment Company, Mr. Kunkle has been building high-end custom homes throughout California as an Owner's Rep. and General Contractor for owners and investors. Currently, Mr. Kunkle oversees, manages and consults on construction and pre-construction activities for Republic Investment Company. Most of Mr. Kunkle's work is done alongside designers, architects, engineers, contractors and tradesmen; as well as, with building officials and stake holders to efficiently plan, entitle and perform property improvements.

Mark Forman - Managing Director

Job Titles:
  • Managing Director
Mark Forman is a seasoned professional with over 45 years of experience in the real estate industry. As a Managing Director at Republic Investment Company, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Mark is a Canada Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and possesses exceptional analytical and forensic skills, with a specific focus on real estate. Throughout his career, Mark has been actively involved in every aspect of real estate transactions, demonstrating proficiency in acquisitions, dispositions, valuations, financings, refinancings, recapitalizations, and restructurings. He has particularly excelled in navigating distressed situations such as foreclosures, deed-in-lieu transactions, and bankruptcy filings, adeptly representing both debtors and creditors. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto. Outside of work, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends, playing sports, and taking leisurely walks with his wife and beloved dog.