2015 40 Under 40: Jordan O’Brien, LEED AP, MBA, BSc, 36

Senior Manager, Arup, San Francisco BS Biochemistry, University of California; MBA, University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School

By Jack Smith, Content Manager, and Amara Rozgus, Editor-in-Chief May 14, 2015

Jordan O’Brien, LEED AP, MBA, BSc, 36 Senior Manager, Arup, San Francisco BS Biochemistry, University of California; MBA, University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School

Growing up near the Colorado Rockies influenced O’Brien’s appreciation of and deep sense of responsibility for the environment. After earning a degree in biochemistry, he worked as an environmental consultant planning and managing the removal of asbestos, lead, and mold throughout the Bay Area. Armed with a strong scientific background, he then pursued-and received-his MBA, focusing on sustainable enterprise and real estate development/finance. After completing his MBA, he immediately became a LEED Accredited Professional. O’Brien then joined Arup, where he combines his technical competency and creativity with an understanding of relevant financial drivers early in the concept phase of projects. Living and working in San Francisco, O’Brien works on many local, large-scale projects. His desire to make a local impact has extended beyond Arup through his board participation in NatureBridge-an environmental educational nonprofit that provides an experience-based opportunity for children to learn and appreciate ecology. He is currently helping NatureBridge expand its campus at Fort Cronkite in the Marin Headlands. O’Brien is also a member of the Urban Land Institute’s Responsible Property Investment Council and an avid proponent of San Francisco Planning + Urban Research. Outside the office, O’Brien enjoys team sports, outdoor activities, live music, and art. His artistic side is demonstrated through photography, graphic design, and compelling visuals, which he frequently integrates into his work.