Michael Simkins, President and CEO of Lion Development Group, is at the forefront of one of Miami’s most transformative real estate ventures. Through District 11, featuring the iconic E11EVEN Hotel & Residences and E11EVEN Beyond, Simkins is reimagining a once-overlooked 10-acre site in Park West into a vibrant 24-hour destination. This global, connected “live-work-play” environment is set to be a hub for entertainment, culture, innovation, and entrepreneurship. 

Lion Development Group specializes in premier developments that intersect technology, entertainment, culture, and the arts. Under Mr. Simkins’ leadership, the company’s world-class projects are reshaping communities and elevating the Miami lifestyle. Lion Development is also collaborating with Terra Group on Miami Tropic, a new residential development in Midtown Miami. This world-class project will deliver refined living in one of the city’s most established and connected neighborhoods, linking residents to Miami’s key economic and cultural centers. 

As a lifelong Miamian, Mr. Simkins is passionately committed to Miami’s dynamic growth. “The world is paying attention to Miami,” he says. “I see our city continuing its evolution with world-class architecture and cultural spaces. By attracting top corporations and higher-paying jobs, Miami will gain greater global recognition and influence.” 

Beyond his role at Lion Development Group, Mr. Simkins is a key player at E11EVEN Partners, the visionary team behind the renowned E11EVEN Miami brand, which includes a nightclub, hotel, residences, vodka line, and audio equipment. His strategic insight has propelled the brand beyond hospitality, cementing its status as a premier lifestyle brand. 

The Simkins family, with deep roots in South Florida, is celebrated for its contributions to community-focused projects that foster sustainable economic growth and bring international visibility to the region. Mr. Simkins himself is active in various philanthropic efforts, including those dedicated to juvenile diabetes research—a cause especially meaningful to his family. He also serves on the boards of the Miami Jewish Federation, Miami Beach JCC, Endeavor Miami, and the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO). 

Raised in Miami Beach, Mr. Simkins is the youngest of five siblings. He attended Ransom Everglades and later earned a degree in finance from the University of Miami. He holds a law degree from Brooklyn Law School and initially practiced real estate law at Akerman Senterfitt before fully dedicating himself to his true passion: real estate development. 

He has been married for 20 years to his high school sweetheart, Nicole Simkins, and has three children, son Eli (15), daughter Jaden (18), and Harper (9).