Steve Merkle is a Managing Member of Open Realty Advisors. He is a co-leader of ORA’s tenant advisory business. Steve has led consulting for J.Crew since 2005, opening over 300 stores, managing the initial and early growth of the Madewell concept, and was responsible for a multi-million dollar annual rent savings initiative. He also led consulting Neighborhood Goods, Nambé and Cinepolis, and has played an integral role in the site selection, market analysis and lease negotiation for lululemon, Apple, RH, L’Occitane and Oakley. Steve has negotiated transactions in all markets with all major landlords. His responsibilities include financial analysis and pro forma modeling for client growth and investment strategies. Steve received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Houston.