Rajee Harris

Chief operating officer, real estate operating company investments, Principal Real Estate

Age: 36

Education: Drake University Law School - Juris Doctor and MBA, Business Law Certificate; Drake University - Bachelor of Science, entrepreneurial management and marketing

Wife: Rebecca Goldsmith 

Children: Lawson Harris (son)

__________________________

Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

Played a key role in helping Principal Real Estate, a top-10 global real estate investment manager, successfully rebuild its real estate operating company investment capabilities as chief operating officer of the team.

I have a deep commitment to giving back to my community — currently serving on the board of directors for the Animal Rescue League of Iowa and Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation; previously served a full term on the Drake Law School Board of Counselors.

I was a member of the 2018 class of Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute’s Community Leadership Program.

I was one of fewer than five individuals in my graduating class at Drake University Law School to successfully complete the law/MBA joint-degree program.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

Preserving nature and animal welfare — whether it’s protecting wildlife habitats or ensuring every pet has a loving home. Spending my childhood summers on my grandparents’ farm exploring the outdoors and caring for the land and animals instilled in me an appreciation for the connection between people, animals and nature.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Having a lasting, positive impact on the people and organizations I engage with — whether it’s my family/friends, the company I’m grateful to work for, or nonprofits I’ve been entrusted to serve. For me, “making it” is about consistently adding value, helping others and contributing to something greater than myself.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

Housing affordability. Inflation and rising interest rates have made housing less accessible, reducing disposable income people have to inject back into their local economy. Meanwhile, developers face financial barriers to building or preserving more supply. Public-private partnerships are key to identifying sustainable solutions to keep the Des Moines metro accessible and thriving.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

Growing up with a white mother from rural America and a black father from inner-city St. Louis, I was exposed to contrasting perspectives on nearly everything. This shaped my appreciation for diverse viewpoints and ideas, my willingness to challenge the status quo and strengthened my ability to connect with others.

What are your aspirations for the future?

To continue driving growth at Principal Real Estate while supporting institutional clients and the pension beneficiaries they serve. Beyond my career, I’m committed to addressing housing affordability by investing in safe, affordable rentals that preserve Des Moines’ historic architecture — creating a lasting impact on both the community and Des Moines’ character.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

Build a reputation for hard work, initiative and reliability. You’re not expected to know everything early on, but showing a willingness to learn and take on challenges with accountability will help you build confidence and earn the support of mentors and advocates. This will accelerate your growth and career trajectory.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

Focused learning. Success leaves clues, and many top professionals in each field share their insights and wisdom through books and other content. Leveraging their knowledge allows me to continuously grow, adapt and apply lessons learned from industry leaders and experts to both my personal and professional development.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

Amid growing anti-DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) sentiment, I challenge Central Iowa leaders to recognize diversity’s true value — diversity of thought. This extends beyond race to life experiences that shape perspectives. When different viewpoints come together, the result isn’t just additive, it’s transformative. One plus a different one doesn’t just equal two; it creates something greater and more impactful than either could achieve alone. Embracing this principle improves decision-making and drives innovation in delivering better business and community outcomes.

What's one fun fact about you?

I am the first lawyer in my family on either side (although I married into a family full of them).

Hobbies:

Dedicated father-son time on weekend mornings; partaking in the underrated local food scene; biking and enjoying other outdoor activities Des Moines has to offer.

What is one word that best describes you?

Curious.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

Eatery A pizza (No. 14 to be exact)!

What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?

Indulging my son, Lawson, in his monster truck obsession by recently attending the 10th Monster Jam event (in five different states and counting) with him in the last two years!

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

Drake Relays (especially the once every 10 years the weather cooperates).