Chinedum Ndukwe is a multifaceted leader whose journey from NFL safety to commercial real estate developer exemplifies the power of reinvention, purpose, and community impact. Born in Virginia to Nigerian immigrants, Chinedum graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2007 from Mendoza College of Business with a Business Management and Psychology Majors.” He enhanced his business acumen through NFL executive management programs at Harvard Business School and the Wharton School. After five seasons in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders, he pivoted into real estate development, founding Kingsley + Co., a minority-owned real estate firm focused on revitalizing underserved communities through innovative real estate solutions. Beyond business, Chinedum Ndukwe is a civic leader, served on several boards and launched the Ndukwe Foundation to empower youth and immigrant communities. With a deep commitment to legacy-building and social equity, he merges his strategic vision with grassroots engagement, creating spaces that not only grow in value but uplift the people they serve.
How did your upbringing as the son of Nigerian immigrants shape your approach to leadership and community?
Growing up in a household led by Nigerian immigrants, I was constantly reminded of the value of hard work, resilience, and purpose. That foundation instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility—not just to succeed individually but to uplift others as I grow . As I advanced in my career, I became increasingly aware of the limited opportunities available to minority business owners and specifically real estate developers. That realization continues to fuel my leadership today. Whether on the football field or in the boardroom, I believe in creating inclusive spaces and making decisions that reflect long-term benefit for entire communities, not just bottom lines.
What inspired your transition from professional football to commercial real estate development?
A former player once told me the NFL stood for “Not For Long,” so I was intentional about exploring other passions where I could still compete. I took advantage of every off-the-field opportunity the NFL offered, which led me to executive programs at Harvard and Wharton. Those experiences helped me build my network and sparked a lasting interest in real estate and meeting developers.
Tell us more about the mission behind Kingsley + Co.
Our company mission and mantra is Building To Inspire. We aim to create lasting value in the communities where we develop and build, while also showing that anyone—regardless of background—can become a developer. We want to inspire more diverse individuals to see that it’s possible to create spaces that uplift communities and ultimately become homes.
What do you consider the most meaningful project you’ve worked on so far?
The most meaningful project to date has been Victory Vistas, an age-restricted senior housing development that opened in 2024. It was made possible through 9% housing credits from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency. We built the project on a hillside that many had written off as “unbuildable,” transforming a site that once held a defunct warehouse and challenging topography into much-needed housing for seniors. It’s a testament to what’s possible with vision, persistence, and purpose.
How does your background in psychology inform your work as a developer and entrepreneur?
I often tell people I’m not in the real estate business—I’m in the people business. My background in psychology helps me connect with others, whether it’s during site acquisition negotiations or thinking through how a future guest or tenant will live, work, and feel in the spaces we create. At the end of the day, real estate is about understanding people and designing with their needs in mind.
Why is board service and civic engagement important to you?
Civic engagement has always been a priority for me, and I encourage our team to stay involved through our paid nonprofit days, which allow employees to volunteer with organizations they’re passionate about. Staying connected to the community helps us better understand the real needs of our neighbors—and ultimately shapes how we build and serve.
What’s your vision for Kingsley + Co. in the next 5–10 years?
I still view our firm as a startup. While we’ve achieved a level of success, the next 5–10 years are critical. I believe we have a real opportunity to become one of the most successful development firms in Ohio—and over the next decade, expand our footprint to deliver high-impact projects across the Midwest and beyond.
Our growth will be intentional, driven by equity, innovation, and impact. We’re also deeply committed to climate-resilient development and are working to incorporate sustainability into every project we take.
What role do strategic partnerships play in your business model?
They’re everything. Real estate is a team sport. From investors and architects to community leaders and tenants, success depends on alignment. At Kingsley + Co., we’re intentional about forging partnerships with those who share our mission. We bring diverse players to the table and co-create solutions that are financially viable and socially responsible. That’s how you build trust—and legacy.
How do you stay grounded while juggling so many roles?
Faith, family, and focus. My faith keeps me centered, my family keeps me motivated, and focus keeps me moving forward. I also carve out time for reflection—whether it’s reading, journaling, or walking—and that helps me recalibrate and lead with clarity.
What advice would you give young athletes preparing for life after sports?
Start now. Don’t wait for retirement to explore your interests or expand your network. Use your platform, leverage your discipline, and invest in your future. Education, mentorship, and financial literacy are crucial. Your identity is not confined to a jersey. Embrace the transition—it’s not the end of your story, Your next chapter will be the beginning.
About The Author
