From his early days as a rugby player to his current role as the CEO and president of Hilliker Corporations, Meade Summers has demonstrated a knack for identifying opportunities and transforming them into tangible successes.
Hilliker Corporation is the largest independently owned commercial real estate company in St. Louis. The firm guides business owners through their needs at each stage of the business life cycle and since 1985, has brokered more than 10,000 transactions, including sales and leases of industrial, office, institutional, retail and investment properties.
Summers joined the company in 1986 as a real estate agent and quickly promoted to vice president, principal and ultimately CEO. During his tenure at Hilliker, Summers played a pivotal role in the redevelopment of over 3,000,000 square feet of building space, including iconic landmarks like the Falstaff Brewery complex and the Stupp Brothers Bridge and Iron Works.
“His expertise in revitalizing historic properties earned him recognition as a transformative force in the St. Louis real estate landscape,” said his colleagues. “As president of Hilliker, Summers has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to innovation and growth.”
Summers’ acquisition of a significant stake in Westwood Net Lease Advisors expanded the company’s reach and expertise and he serves as a board member for prominent organizations, including Stifel Bank and the Business Bank of St. Louis.
“His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his passion, vision and unwavering commitment to excellence,” said his colleagues. “Summers serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a role model for future generations.”
Summers’ community involvement has gained him recognition as one of Small Business Monthly’s 2022 Top 100 People to Know in Business and he has been named one of 2022 Best Bosses. He is actively involved with organizations like the Delta Gamma Center for Children with Visual Impairments and the St. Louis Charitable Foundation.
“His unwavering commitment to social responsibility and community service serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that success extends beyond the board room and into the fabric of society,” said his staff.
Leading from the front defines his leadership style, said Summers. “You have to work harder than everyone else, grind out hard work and do the hard work your competitors won’t,” he said. “Don’t be afraid of failure; staying in your comfort zone will ultimately hinder your growth.”
For his willingness to propel the industry and the community into success, Summers has been named a titan.
