Mark Callazzo is the epitome of entrepreneur. Over more than three decades, Mark has founded and led multiple real estate companies that flourish to this day—proof that strong business relationships, loyalty and rolling with the punches leads to long-term success in this fast-paced, unpredictable industry.
Mark boasts extensive expertise in the realm of Private Equity. In his capacity as the Managing Partner at Lucern Capital, he assumed a pivotal role in the acquisition of value-add multifamily and mixed assets exceeding a cumulative value of $250 million along the East Coast. Furthermore, Mark served as the founding partner of Alpha Funding Solutions, where he successfully deployed more than $800 million in short-term debt. In this role, he held direct responsibility for the company’s underwriting and risk management efforts.
A true visionary, Mark was the man behind the origins of the revitalization of an Atlantic City neighborhood now known as The Orange Loop. His investments included purchasing real estate that has housed a yoga studio, a coffee shop and long-term housing, as well as four businesses he co-owns with fellow real estate leaders, including Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, a gastropub with a stunning outdoor beer garden; Cuzzie’s Pizzeria, a quick-serve pizzeria and sub joint; Rhythm & Spirits, an upscale Italian eatery and club; and Bar 32 Chocolate, the only business in the state that makes fresh chocolate from the bean and then uses it to make everything from desserts to cocktails. His vision has paid off for the whole city: The other two streets on the Orange Loop include major investments that include housing, a marijuana dispensary, restaurants, a concert venue and more.
As a philanthropist, Mark believes in the importance of paying it forward and donates time and money to various charities, including The Schultz-Hill Foundation and the Atlantic City Arts Foundation. Mark sits on the board of the Levenson Institute of Gaming and Hospitality for Stockton University, The Greater Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce and the Chelsea Economic Development Corporation.
Mark received a B.A. in economics from Kean University and an M.B.A. with a concentration in finance from Monmouth University. With myriad business and philanthropic ventures, Mark manages to make time for another passion, wine.