Coral Gables Trust & The Jills Zeder Group Host Beyond Expectation Panel

“Whether you’re advising families across generations, selling a home or a car, or delivering healthcare, the principles of trust, anticipation, and care are universal,” said Richard DeNapoli, CEO of Coral Gables Trust. With that insight, the tone was set for “Beyond Expectation: Inside the World of Luxury Client Experience,” an exclusive panel discussion hosted by Coral Gables Trust and Judy Zeder of The Jills Zeder Group on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club.

Bringing together South Florida’s most influential leaders across luxury real estate, fine art, hospitality, healthcare, and finance, the intimate luncheon offered an insider’s look at how today’s top brands deliver service “beyond expectation” in industries where excellence is merely the starting point.

Over 75 guests from South Florida’s luxury real estate and business communities attended. The panel was moderated by John Harris, Managing Director and Chief Wealth Advisor of Coral Gables Trust, and featured industry leaders including Judy Zeder, Principal of The Jills Zeder Group; Libia Nahas, Vice President of Business Development, Southeast Region at Christie’s; Peter Warwar, Sales and Brand Ambassador at Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables; Sase “Sasha” Gjorsovski, CEO and President of Fisher Island Club; and Alex Villoch, CEO of the Baptist Health South Florida Foundation.

The discussion explored the strategies behind truly exceptional client experiences. Judy Zeder emphasized the value of reputation in client relationships, saying, “It is critical to value long-term relationships over short-term gains.” Alex Villoch echoed the importance of integrity, calling it “the foundation of character, trust, and long-lasting success.”

Panelists also highlighted the art of anticipating client needs. Peter Warwar explained, “Beyond expectation begins when a client feels understood before they feel sold,” while Sase Gjorsovski reflected on leadership and culture, advising, “Build a culture of excellence. Empowering your team builds trust.” Libia Nahas added that empathy must be paired with expertise, noting, “Own your truth and have confidence in your individual expertise. Be sensitive and listen, but stand confidently in the guidance you provide your clients.”

Guests left with a deeper understanding of how top leaders in luxury real estate, fine art, healthcare, and hospitality build trust, foster long-term loyalty, and navigate complex client emotions.

“Luxury client experiences are about more than transactions—they are personal relationships built on trust, discretion, and understanding,” said Judy Zeder. “It was a pleasure to host an engaging discussion with such a distinguished group of leaders from diverse industries, who are shaping the future of high-end service in South Florida and beyond.”

The luncheon also provided a valuable networking opportunity, allowing attendees to connect and leave with actionable strategies for strengthening client relationships and delivering personalized, “beyond expectation” service within their own organizations.

As moderator, John Harris reflected, “We are all told to listen to clients — it’s another thing to truly understand them.” His closing words captured the central theme of the discussion: that exceptional service begins not simply with listening, but with genuine understanding.

Held in partnership with Coldwell Banker Realty and the Coral Gables Community Foundation, the event was a testament to the continued collaboration between Coral Gables Trust and The Jills Zeder Group, showing their shared commitment to thought leadership, community engagement, and excellence within South Florida’s luxury sectors.