COverview
Centennial owns, operates, and manages retail real estate, overseeing shopping centers and open-air destinations. It combines property ownership, leasing, and third-party management to optimize assets and create engaging places across more than 25 million square feet in 18 states with a team of over 300 professionals. The approach includes curating tenant mixes, activating spaces, and maintaining properties to drive foot traffic, experience, and revenue, delivering tailored outcomes for investors, tenants, and communities. Centennial differentiates itself with an integrated, hands-on platform that blends ownership, active management, and place-making at scale to foster community connections and measurable results. Its goal is to create places people love that boost local economies and deliver value for all stakeholders.
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About Centennial
Industries
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Dallas, TX
Founded
1997
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What believers are saying
- Centennial won Plaza Bonita, Paramus Park, and two 2026 grocery-anchored assignments.
- Eleven properties won 2026 Kingsley Excellence Awards, validating operations and tenant service.
- MainPlace’s 408-unit Carina groundbreaking advances mixed-use density and recurring traffic.
What critics are saying
- Hawthorn costs jumped from $252 million to $491.5 million, pressuring returns.
- Mall redevelopments need heavy leasing, making 2027 execution decisive for Hawthorn and MainPlace.
- Steven Levin’s retirement removes the founder who built Centennial’s turnaround playbook.
What makes Centennial unique
- Centennial, powered by Lincoln, combines retail operations with Lincoln’s integrated real estate platform.
- Paul Kurzawa succeeded Steven Levin on June 30, 2026, preserving operator continuity.
- Hawthorn 2.0 and MainPlace show Centennial can reposition large, complex malls.
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- Unlimited Paid Time Off
- Flexible Work Hours
- Remote Work Options
- Paid Vacation
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Stock Options
- Wellness Program
- Mental Health Support
- Phone/Internet Stipend
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0%'Coming full circle': Shopping center pro returns to area as general manager of Hawthorn mall in Vernon Hills. Posted October 24, 2026 11:34 am In a multifaceted 30-year real estate career, Sarah Williams has worked with more than 100 shopping centers across the U.S. and internationally. But the new general manager of Hawthorn mall in Vernon Hills is not starting from scratch in her latest endeavor. Sarah Williams is the new general manager of Hawthorn mall in Vernon Hills. (Centennial) "This mall was where our kids grew up - they absolutely loved this place," said Williams, who raised her family in Libertyville. "Rebuilding the brand, it's exciting for me." Mall owner Centennial, powered by Lincoln, in partnership with Affinius Capital, announced Williams' appointment Oct. 13. She returns to the area as the 1970-era mall and surrounding property is in the sixth year of an extensive, $491.5 million ongoing reboot dubbed Hawthorn 2.0. Upgrades being made this summer as part of an ongoing $5 million interior refresh at Hawthorn mall in Vernon Hills. (Hawthorn mall) "At this important point in Hawthorn's transformation, her experience across operations, merchandising, and community engagement will be invaluable as we move into this next chapter," Stephen White, Centennial's executive vice president of property management, said in the announcement of Williams' hiring. For many years, Williams has lived and worked in Connecticut, Colorado, California and Florida and recently returned to the area from Tampa. "We absolutely love being back at Hawthorn," she said. "It's coming full circle for me." As general manager, Williams oversees day-to-day operations, tenant relations, and customer experience and works with leasing, development and ownership teams as work associated with Hawthorn 2.0 accelerates. Williams said she was drawn to the position to build on 50-plus years of Hawthorn history while helping to shape what comes next. "The significant investment the owners have made in the property shows we're confident in the long-term," she said. So is the village, which in late 2020 created a special financing district as an incentive for the redevelopment. In September, the village's stake increased from $43 million to a maximum of $64 million as original project cost estimate jumped from $252 million to $491.5 million. "The partnership is very strong. Hawthorn 2.0 is one of our top priorities," said Mayor Thom Koch. The vision since the initial introduction to the community in 2019 at an open house inside the since-demolished Carson' anchor store, has been to transform the original mall and property in response to a changing retail landscape. The plan calls for a mix of uses including about 600 luxury apartments and new stores, attractions, restaurants and other features. The first phases of residential and retail space are completed and restaurants have opened on the perimeter. But much more is in progress or pending. A $5 million interior refresh to modernize the look and feel of common areas inside the mall with new flooring, furniture and other improvements is ongoing. "We've had an enormous amount of interest from the retail community," Williams said. Koch noted that significant investments have and are being made to the mall interior. A number of ribbon cuttings, including for entertainment-themed businesses, have been held this year, he added. Interior work will introduce a "hospitality-inspired design, modern gathering spaces, enhanced dining environments, and upgraded guest amenities," according to Centennial. The refresh is a complement to the broader property redevelopment now in its sixth year of construction. Phase 2 work to start later this year includes the introduction of exterior-facing storefronts to portions of the existing mall while maintaining interior access and new main entrances on the south and east sides to better connect with the surroundings, according to Centennial. This will be happening as an extension of the Hawthorn Row residential and retail outside the mall property gets underway. "It's a huge passion for me," Williams explained of her long-term career. "I love the strategic thinking that goes into a shopping center." Williams said connecting Hawthorn to the community is an important element in the big picture. This season Hawthorn will host the village's Holiday Light Celebration and is proposing to install the village's tree, menorah and kinara in an open-air outdoor event space. [email protected]
Plano City Council backs Dallas Stars arena proposal at $700M Willow Bend redevelopment site. Published June 9, 2026 at 11:19 AM CDT The Dallas Stars could get millions in tax breaks for a new stadium as part of a funding plan for a new $700 million arena and entertainment district in Plano after a city council vote Monday night. Plano city leaders voted Monday to support the proposed Dallas Stars arena at The Shops at Willow Bend, approving a series of measures designed to advance one of the largest redevelopment projects in the city's history. Following the vote, city leaders described the project as a major opportunity for Plano's long-term growth and redevelopment efforts. "Plano has built a reputation as a city that welcomes world-class partners and community-focused investment," Mayor John Muns said. "These actions are a significant first step as we evaluate the potential for a thoughtfully designed sports and entertainment district that reflects the priorities and values of our community." The Plano City Council approved a nonbinding letter of intent with the Dallas Stars organization, an economic development agreement with mall owner Centennial, and the creation of a new tax increment reinvestment zone - or TIRZ - to help finance future public infrastructure associated with the project. A TIRZ is a financing tool that uses future increases in property and sales tax revenue from a developing area to pay for public improvements and infrastructure within that area. Monday's vote does not authorize construction of the arena itself, but it establishes the framework for future negotiations and financing plans that would be required before development can move forward. Additional agreements and development approvals are expected to come before the council as planning for the project continues. In addition to serving as the future home of the Stars, the arena would also host concerts, cultural programming, and other sports and community events. The approvals mark a significant step toward bringing a new arena and mixed-use development to the aging Willow Bend property, which has experienced several major tenant departures in recent years. Under the economic development agreement, the city will provide up to $15 million in incentives to support redevelopment efforts. According to city documents, $10 million will help offset demolition costs for portions of the mall, including former retail and entertainment spaces, while $5 million will fund construction of a visitor center. The city estimates up to $700 million in public infrastructure costs associated with the project, which could be financed through the proposed TIRZ at the roughly 897-acre property surrounding the project area, and other venue-related funding mechanisms if approved in future actions. City officials determined redevelopment of the area is unlikely to occur through private investment alone and that the project could help stimulate economic activity, increase property values and generate additional tax revenue. Public comments were mixed. Some residents voiced support for redeveloping the struggling mall property. "These projects will bring economic vitality and great amenities to Plano," resident Joseph Landers told council. "We ask that they be implemented thoughtfully with strong maintenance, code enforcement, security, and safety measures to complement our established neighborhoods." Others questioned the use of public incentives and raised concerns about traffic, noise, neighborhood impacts and taxpayer costs. "My neighbors and I did not choose Plano to live next to a regional entertainment district," Venturonu said. "We chose it for the quiet streets, the good schools, and a city that puts its residents first." Plans outlined in the letter of intent also call for future discussions on transportation improvements, youth sports initiatives and small-business engagement programs. In addition to approving incentives and a new tax increment reinvestment zone, council members also advanced a measure that could allow Plano voters to decide whether to authorize additional funding mechanisms for the proposed arena. Under that plan, the city could seek voter approval for several venue-related taxes, including a hotel occupancy tax increase of up to 2%, a rental car tax of up to 5%, an event parking fee of up to $3 per vehicle, an admissions tax of up to 10% on event tickets and a venue use tax on professional sports teams. City officials say those revenue sources, along with future tax increment revenues, could help finance construction of the arena and related infrastructure improvements. A venue tax election could be held as early as Nov. 3, pending review by the Texas Comptroller and future council action. The Stars currently play at American Airlines Center in Dallas, where their lease expires in 2031. Team officials have identified Plano as their preferred location for a future arena and entertainment district. The vote comes as Dallas leaders grapple with a series of high-profile departures and relocation plans affecting the city's downtown core. In recent months, AT&T announced plans to move its headquarters to Plano, Neiman Marcus revealed it will close its longtime downtown flagship store, and both the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars unveiled plans for future arenas outside downtown. Responding to those developments, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson warned that neighboring cities are increasingly competing with Dallas for businesses, residents and major attractions, urging city leaders to work together on efforts to strengthen downtown and retain key institutions. "The wolf is at the door and the wolf is not in this room," Johnson said at a recent city council meeting. "The wolf is not in this room, the wolf is up the tollway." Emmanuel Rivas Valenzuela is KERA's breaking news reporter. Got a tip? Email Emmanuel at [email protected]. KERA News is made possible through the generosity of its members. If you find this reporting valuable, consider making a tax-deductible gift today. Thank you
Centennial CEO Steven Levin retires, paves way for President Paul Kurzawa's expanded leadership role. Levin to remain active in industry as Kurzawa embraces CEO role. DALLAS, TX - May 14, 2026 Centennial, powered by Lincoln, a national retail operating platform created to provide owners and investors with multi-discipline retail expertise, is ushering in a new era as long-time founder and CEO Steven Levin retires on June 30 and is succeeded by President Paul Kurzawa. Levin will continue in an advisory capacity over the next 12 months to help ensure a seamless leadership transition and will continue entrusting Centennial with the management of his portfolio properties, including The Shops at Willow Bend, as he remains active in the industry. "Growing Centennial into a respected leader in retail real estate has been a joy and a privilege over the past 30 years, and I have tremendous confidence in Paul Kurzawa and our executive team as they lead the organization forward into the next chapter," said Levin. "This is not farewell by any means. I remain deeply passionate about this industry and excited for what lies ahead." Levin established Centennial in 1997, and his innovative approach, rooted in an owner's mindset and a retailer's perspective, has positioned the company to set a lofty standard for the retail real estate industry. Time and again, Centennial has proven that when the right team and the right vision come together, even the most challenged assets can be revitalized into dynamic community destinations that drive long-term value for partners, clients and consumers alike. While building the Centennial brand, Levin has also cultivated an inclusive, people-first culture that is driven by entrepreneurship and creativity and championed by Kurzawa and Centennial's executive team. "It is an honor to lead this exceptional organization and build upon the strong foundation Steven has established over the past three decades," said Kurzawa. "Our vision remains unchanged: to be the retail real estate industry's most trusted partner and operator. With the continued support of Lincoln Property Company and the passion and expertise of our talented team, Centennial is exceptionally well-positioned to continue transforming properties into vibrant destinations that create long-term value for the communities, partners and consumers we serve." Kurzawa joined the Centennial team as president in 2024, contributing deep industry expertise across lifestyle, open-air, and enclosed retail environments as well as extensive operating acumen honed by decades of international multi-asset and multi-discipline experience. Earlier that year, Levin facilitated Lincoln's strategic investment in Centennial's operating business, formalizing the entities' history of collaboration and shared vision for the future of retail real estate. "I truly believe that Centennial is the best in the business," added Levin. "I expect to continue working closely with the company for years to come and look forward to remaining active in the industry while supporting Centennial's continued success." Centennial, powered by Lincoln Centennial, powered by Lincoln ("Centennial"), is a national retail real estate owner and operator overseeing more than 25 million square feet of retail and mixed-use destinations across 18 states. In addition to investing in and operating its own portfolio, the company provides a full-service property management and advisory platform serving institutional and private owners nationwide. As part of Lincoln Property Company, one of the nation's largest privately held real estate firms, Centennial operates as a purpose-built retail platform - combining institutional capital strength, national scale, and Lincoln's fully integrated real estate capabilities with Centennial's specialized merchandising, leasing, and operations expertise. About Lincoln Property Company Lincoln Property Company ("Lincoln") is one of the largest private real estate firms in the United States. Offering a fully integrated platform of real estate services and innovative solutions to owners, investors, lenders and occupiers, Lincoln supports the entire real estate lifecycle across asset types, including office, multifamily, life science, retail, industrial, data center, production studio, healthcare, government, universities, and mixed-use properties, throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe. Lincoln's combined management and leasing portfolio on behalf of institutional clients includes more than 720 million square feet of commercial space. Media Contact Mindy Rohr VP, Communications & Digital Media [email protected] 205.795.5538
Centennial and Lincoln launch "Centennial, powered by Lincoln" National retail operating platform. March 31, 2026 8:11 AM Gift Article DALLAS, TX / ACCESS Newswire / March 31, 2026 / Centennial, a national owner and operator of retail and mixed-use destinations, and Lincoln Property Company ("Lincoln"), a global full-service real estate firm, today announced the launch of "Centennial, powered by Lincoln," a national retail operating platform created to provide owners and investors with multi-discipline retail expertise supported by a vertically integrated real estate infrastructure. With Lincoln's 2024 acquisition of Centennial, the launch of Centennial, powered by Lincoln, formally connects the two brands and establishes a unified platform purpose-built for retail and mixed-use real estate. The partnership brings together Centennial's best-in-class merchandising, retail leasing and operations expertise with Lincoln's national scale and integrated real estate capabilities, creating a differentiated platform with significantly expanded capacity to drive value across complex retail and mixed-use assets for owners and investors nationwide. "Retail has never been more central to the performance of mixed-use assets, and owners are demanding a higher level of specialized expertise to unlock value. Centennial, powered by Lincoln, gives the market exactly that, a purpose-built retail operating platform backed by Lincoln's national scale, local market presence, and fully integrated real estate capabilities," said David Binswanger, Co-CEO of Lincoln. Through Centennial, powered by Lincoln, property owners and investors gain access to an integrated retail operating platform that pairs specialized retail strategies with deep local market insight and a full breadth of Lincoln's real estate services. In addition, the partnership expands Centennial's ability to pursue strategic investment opportunities through Lincoln's institutional capital relationships. "This is about scaling what we do best," said Paul Kurzawa, President of Centennial. "By combining our multi-discipline retail expertise with Lincoln's national reach and local market insight, we're able to support owners more effectively across the country while also expanding our ability to invest alongside our partners." As retail increasingly serves as the activation and experience-driven component of mixed-use developments, owners are seeking operating partners capable of delivering both data-driven merchandising strategy and strong day-to-day operational execution. Centennial, powered by Lincoln, is designed to meet that demand by providing a specialized retail platform supported by Lincoln's broader real estate services ecosystem. With this expanded platform, Centennial will continue to operate its national portfolio of retail destinations while expanding its ability to support third-party owners and pursue strategic investment opportunities alongside Lincoln. Centennial, powered by Lincoln, aims to enhance property performance and create vibrant destinations that deliver long-term value for investors and the communities they serve. About Centennial Centennial is a national retail real estate owner and operator overseeing more than 25 million square feet of retail and mixed-use destinations across 18 states. In addition to investing in and operating its own portfolio, the company provides a full-service property management and advisory platform serving institutional and private owners nationwide. Supported by a strategic investment from Lincoln Property Company, one of the nation's largest privately held real estate firms, Centennial combines institutional capital strength with national operating expertise to pursue strategic acquisitions while delivering best-in-class asset management and property operations. Founded in 1997, Centennial acquires, operates, and enhances retail and mixed-use destinations designed to serve as enduring centers of commerce and community. About Lincoln Property Company Lincoln Property Company ("Lincoln") is one of the largest private real estate firms in the United States. Offering a fully integrated platform of real estate services and innovative solutions to owners, investors, lenders and occupiers, Lincoln supports the entire real estate lifecycle across asset types, including office, multifamily, life science, retail, industrial, data center, production studio, healthcare, government, universities, and mixed-use properties, throughout the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe. Lincoln's combined management and leasing portfolio on behalf of institutional clients includes more than 720 million square feet of commercial space.
Groundbreaking launches The Carina at MainPlace with 408 homes. The transformation of MainPlace Mall has entered a significant new phase as local leaders, developers, and community stakeholders gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of The Carina, a modern multifamily residential development set to bring 408 new apartment homes to the center of Santa Ana. This milestone reflects the ongoing evolution of MainPlace from a traditional retail hub into a vibrant mixed-use destination that blends residential living with shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. The Carina is being developed through a collaboration between Lowe, Affinius Capital, and Centennial, all of whom share a vision of reimagining MainPlace as a dynamic urban environment. The project is designed to introduce contemporary living options within close proximity to retail and leisure amenities, offering residents a convenient and integrated lifestyle in one of Orange County's key urban centers. As part of this broader redevelopment effort, construction is also progressing on the new MainPlace Culinary District, a 1.25-acre destination that will serve as a focal point for dining and social interaction. The Culinary District is envisioned as a curated collection of chef-driven restaurants and local food concepts that reflect the cultural diversity and culinary creativity of Santa Ana. Positioned near Center Court, it will create a welcoming gateway into the shopping center while encouraging visitors to explore and engage with the surrounding spaces. The Culinary District is expected to play a vital role in connecting the retail environment with nearby residential neighborhoods. By creating inviting outdoor spaces and gathering areas, the development aims to foster a sense of community while enhancing the overall visitor experience. This integration of residential and commercial elements is central to the vision of transforming MainPlace into a true mixed-use destination. The groundbreaking ceremony brought together key figures from the development teams, along with local government officials and community representatives. Among those in attendance were Valerie Amezcua and Jessie Lopez, who joined executives from the partnering organizations to mark the beginning of construction on both The Carina and the Culinary District. Mayor Amezcua highlighted the importance of the project in supporting the city's long-term growth and development. She noted that the addition of modern residential communities such as The Carina, along with complementary amenities like the Culinary District, contributes to a stronger and more connected urban environment. By creating spaces where residents and visitors can live, work, and gather, the redevelopment is expected to deliver lasting benefits to the community. The Carina is designed to offer a contemporary residential experience, with thoughtfully planned apartments that cater to a range of lifestyles. Its location within the MainPlace complex provides residents with direct access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, reducing the need for long commutes and supporting a more walkable urban lifestyle. This approach aligns with broader trends in urban development, where mixed-use environments are increasingly favored for their convenience and sustainability. According to Rob Reitenour, Senior Vice President at Lowe, the transformation of MainPlace is driven by a commitment to creating a welcoming and engaging destination for both residents and the wider community. He emphasized that the redevelopment is not just about adding new buildings, but about redefining how people interact with the space. By integrating residential living with retail and recreational offerings, the project introduces a new way of experiencing the area. Reitenour also pointed out that revitalizing MainPlace is expected to generate increased foot traffic, which will benefit local businesses and contribute to the economic vitality of Santa Ana. As more people visit the area for dining, shopping, and entertainment, the surrounding community stands to gain from new opportunities and sustained economic growth. The inclusion of the Culinary District further enhances this vision by creating a unique destination that celebrates local culture and cuisine. By featuring locally curated concepts and chef-driven menus, the district aims to attract a diverse audience while supporting regional talent. This focus on authenticity and quality is expected to set MainPlace apart from traditional shopping centers and position it as a destination in its own right. Overall, the groundbreaking of The Carina represents a pivotal step in the ongoing transformation of MainPlace. Together with the Culinary District and other planned developments, the project reflects a broader shift toward mixed-use environments that prioritize connectivity, community, and experience. As construction progresses, MainPlace is poised to become a more vibrant and inclusive destination that meets the evolving needs of residents and visitors alike. With strong partnerships, community support, and a clear vision for the future, the redevelopment of MainPlace is set to play a key role in shaping the next chapter of Santa Ana's urban landscape.
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About Centennial
Industries
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Dallas, TX
Founded
1997
Centennial is Hiring for 18 Jobs on Simplify!
Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today
Don't see your dream role? Check out thousands of other roles on Simplify.Browse all jobs