Ray Ritchey, Senior Executive Vice President at Boston Properties and Host Todd S. Rich, Co-Founder & Partner of Declaration Partners

In this episode of declarations., Host Todd S. Rich sits down with Ray Ritchey, Senior Executive Vice President at Boston Properties, for a wide-ranging conversation reflecting on career, leadership, and gratitude. Ray shares the principles that have guided his professional life, from his early years shaped by family and the Naval Academy to decades building and stewarding long term relationships in real estate. The conversation explores how discipline, patience, and values carried from military service translated into business success, as well as the importance of mentorship and reputation over time. Ray also reflects on legacy, philanthropy, and why staying engaged and purposeful matters at every stage of life.

They discuss:
 • Ray’s declaration of gratitude and how it shaped his personal and professional decisions
 • Lessons from the Naval Academy and how military discipline influenced leadership in business
 • The difference between brokerage and ownership and why long term partnerships matter
 • Building a career by playing the long game and consistently investing in personal reputation
 • Giving back through mentorship and philanthropy, including the impact of the SED Center

Links:

Declaration Partners - https://www.declarationpartners.com/

Todd S. Rich on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-s-rich-6a091333/

Boston Properties - https://www.bxp.com/

Topics:

(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:02:56) - Ray's early life and influences
(00:05:40) - Journey to the Naval Academy
(00:10:16) - Transition to real estate
(00:32:49) - Tenant preferences and new developments
(00:35:18) - Challenges and strategies in real estate investment
(00:45:16) - Washington DC real estate market
(00:51:06) - Personal insights and career advice
(00:54:00) - Philanthropy and community impact
(00:58:40) - Looking ahead: legacy and future goals
(01:00:41) - Closing thoughts and reflections