Name: Gabriella Uccellini
Class Year: 2019
Title: Senior Managing Director, Finance
Organization Name: United Group
1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?
United Group is a private, vertically integrated real estate company that specializes in Class A Multifamily and Active Adult. On a day to day basis, I work in collaboration with my colleagues on construction loan closings, bridge/ perm debt refinances, equity placements, and acquisitions/dispositions.
2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?
Holy Cross has a strong alumni network and wonderful employment office that prepared me for my first career opportunity. Through a personal connection, I began my career at M&T Bank in Boston with their CRE Team through their Relationship Management Development Program. In my 5 – years’ experience at M&T as a Portfolio Manager and Credit Underwriter, I learned from amazing managers, mentors, and colleagues and developed a passion for the CRE industry.
3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?
Women’s Division 1 Lacrosse Team; Study Abroad Maymester Program, Rome, Italy
4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?
Majored in Mathematics and Economics. I knew I wanted a career in Finance and have always loved Math, so I wanted to double major in both to better prepare me for my next chapter.
5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?
Integrity, Accountability, and Teamwork
6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?
Holy Cross provided me with a wonderful educational and athletic experience. My greatest joy from Holy Cross was all of the wonderful friendships and memories I have today from my 4 years at HC. I recommend fully engaging in as much activity and opportunities as you can, with your friends, teammates, professors, and other colleagues.
7. What are your thoughts on how AI has impacted or will impact your industry? What advice do you have for students as they prepare to enter a professional world where AI is prevalent?
I think it candidly depends on what industry you end up. AI can be a great tool to use but at the end of the day you are still responsible for the final product and your best work. In the Finance and CRE development sector it isn’t as heavily used due to certain financial and legal restrictions and confidentiality reasons.