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Vanessa L. Fukunaga CEO

Vanessa L. Fukunaga CEO
Owner, President | CEO

Since taking the helm more than ten years ago, Vanessa FukunagaOwner, President & CEO of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate—has been a trailblazing force in the luxury real estate sector. A seasoned expert across real estate, publishing and strategic marketing, she is also a recognized visionary leader, media personality, public speaker and panel moderator. With a dynamic presence on and off the stage, she also excels as a brand strategist—delivering world-class events, curating exceptional experiences, and elevating global conversations around investment, lifestyle, and innovation. From her pioneering sales tactics to her groundbreaking brand strategies, her influence spans far beyond the industry itself, leaving an indelible mark on the global business and philanthropic landscapes. Fukunaga’s extensive list of accolades—both personal and company-wide—underscores the lasting impact of her leadership, innovation and results. Today, she is widely respected as the voice of luxury real estate in México’s Baja California, redefining what it means to lead in a competitive, global market.

Her journey is one of bold vision and purposeful foresight. In 2012, after the acquisition of Snell Real Estate, she went on to bring in the first Engel & Völkers franchise in México—marking a pivotal milestone in the brand’s international growth. Under her leadership, the company has achieved nearly $3.6 billion in sales since inception—celebrating 28 years in business and reaffirming its position as the #1 luxury real estate brokerage in México. Fukunaga’s relentless drive has built a powerhouse team of top-tier advisors and guided an elite clientele in the buying and selling of ultra-luxury properties throughout Los Cabos and beyond.

Fukunaga believes, “Luxury is a service, not a price point. Delivering a luxury real estate experience is a true art—it takes skill, global connections, and being attuned to the marketplace.”

Her leadership extends far beyond real estate. As Owner, CEO & Publisher of Ocean Blue World, a global luxury networking platform, Fukunaga continues to push boundaries in media and experiential branding. From the award-winning Ocean Blue Magazine to exclusive events and curated lifestyle moments, she offers a 360-degree approach to luxury storytelling. Her podcast, Mod Pod with Fukunaga, features insightful conversations with global change-makers, spotlighting those making meaningful strides in business and community leadership.

Deeply committed to the greater good of the Los Cabos region, Fukunaga spearheads a range of philanthropic efforts—contributing time, resources, and expertise to causes that uplift lives and empower communities. Whether through charitable partnerships, local outreach programs or behind-the-scenes support, her actions are rooted in compassion and a belief that true leadership is measured by the impact one has on others. She leads by example, mobilizing her teams, platforms and networks to amplify initiatives across education, health, youth development and social well-being. Her philanthropic philosophy is grounded in action and engagement, continually inspiring others to think bigger, give more, and lead with generosity and heart.

Visionary in mindset, strategic in execution, and powered by an unshakable drive, Vanessa Fukunaga leads with bold, purpose-driven intent—shaping the future of luxury real estate, media and entrepreneurship. Her commitment to excellence, innovation, and elevating others continues to set new benchmarks in leadership, while her influence is helping to position Los Cabos as one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Making her mark on the global stage, Fukunaga feels that in many ways, she has only just begun.

Success knows no limits—only the boundaries one dares to push, one bold move at a time,” - Vanessa L. Fukunaga

PERSONAL SOCIAL MEDIA:

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INDUSTRY RECOGNITIONS

Vanessa Fukunaga, 2025 Luxury Real Estate Powerhouse, The European

Most Trusted Name in Luxury Real Estate in 2025, The European

2025 Leading Luxury Real Estate Brokerage in México, Global Elite Awards

2025 Best Luxury Brokerage, Luxuri Awards

Most Iconic Leaders Shaping Luxury Real Estate & Global Business in 2025, The Enterprise World

2025 Best Luxury Lifestyle Magazine in Mexico, Ocean Blue Magazine, Luxury Lifestyle Awards

2024 Female Executive of the Year, Titan Woman In Business Awards

Robb Report’s 2024 Masters of Luxury

2024 Best Luxury Real Estate Brokerage in Mexico, Luxuri Awards

Most Inspiring Women Leaders To Follow In 2024, Success Knocks Magazine

2024 Best Luxury Lifestyle Magazine in Mexico, Ocean Blue Magazine, Luxury Lifestyle Awards

2023 Female Executive of the Year; Titan, Women in Business Awards

Best Luxury Real Estate Agency in Mexico 2023; Luxury Lifestyle Awards

Best Real Estate Brokerage in Mexico 2023-2024; SIX CONSECUTIVE YEARS; International Property Awards

Best Luxury Real Estate Firm 2023 – Mexico; Corporate Excellence Awards

2023 Outstanding Property Award, Villa Love & Peace, Opal Awards

TOP 100 Real Estate Brokers & Developers of the World 2023; Luxury Lifestyle Awards (nominee)

Transaction Of The Year 2023; GRI Awards Mexico (nominee)

Best Overall Company Marketing; Who's Who in Luxury Real Estate (nominee)

2023, Diamond Elite, Engel & Völkers Americas

GRI Club Member since 2023

Realm Global Member since 2023

30 Best CEOs 2022 – Silicon Review

10 Most Iconic Business Women To Watch 2022 - Success Knocks Magazine

The 10 Most Successful Women in Real Estate, 2022 – Success Pitchers Magazine

Most Outstanding Leaders in Luxury Real Estate 2022 – Mexico; Corporate Excellence Awards

2022, Chairman's Circle, Engel & Völkers Americas

2022, #22 ranking in Top Advisors by GCI, Vanessa Fukunaga; ranking taken from all Engel & Völkers Americas across 1,087 shops

2021, 30 Most Valuable Brands of the Year, Silicon Review

2020, Alianza Comunitaria BCS Special Recognition

Consejo Coordinador De Los Cabos Member since 2020

Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) since 2018

2019, Inspirational Women In The Community, Esperanza an Auberge Resort

AMA Foundation Board Member since 2019

Boys & Girls Club Board Member since 2019

Best Lifestyle Branding Video 2017, Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate

Born Leader 2017, Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate Company Awards

Engel & Völkers Private Office designation since 2017

Business Women and Professional Ladies Club of Los Cabos since 2016

Board of Regents Member, Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate since 2015

2013, License Partner, first Engel & Völkers in Mexico

2004 Chairman’s Award, Outstanding Sales Performance, TQ3 Navigant

2003 Chairman’s Award, Information Technology Outstanding Customer Service, Navigant