Jamar is the Founder and Managing Principal of Essence Development, a 100% minority-owned real estate investment and development firm focused on creating high-quality, socially impactful, and sustainable communities. Founded in 2020, Essence Development is dedicated to delivering affordable and workforce housing, mixed-use developments, and community-centered infrastructure that integrates health and nutrition services, nonprofit partnerships, and workforce development opportunities. The firm is built on the principle that equitable housing and holistic community investment are essential drivers of meaningful and lasting change. Under Jamar’s leadership, Essence Development’s current portfolio includes over $6 billion in development, encompassing more than 3,800 affordable and workforce housing units, 3,000 market-rate units, and nearly 500,000 square feet of life science and research space across the Northeast corridor.

Prior to founding Essence Development, Jamar served as Vice President of New York Development at Related Companies, where he was instrumental in the redevelopment and preservation of affordable multifamily housing nationwide. During his tenure, he oversaw over $800 million in transactions and more than $1.5 billion in development, including the construction and rehabilitation of nearly 5,000 affordable and workforce housing units in New York City. Notable projects under his leadership included Riverwalk Park on Roosevelt Island, Marine Terrace in Astoria, Willets Point Phase 1 in Queens, and Rockaway South in Far Rockaway.

Before entering real estate, Jamar played in the National Football League with the Seattle Seahawks and the Philadelphia Eagles. He is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan, where he currently serves on the board of the Alumni Association and the LEAD Scholars Program.

Deeply committed to mentorship and community empowerment, Jamar is actively involved with organizations such as 100 Black Men of America and the Business of Sports School in New York City. He also serves on the Advisory Council for the Fund for Public Housing, supporting efforts to enhance public housing communities across New York City.His interests include listening to music, following American football, and traveling.