Cyril Morel is a seasoned executive and visionary leader with over 15 years of multifaceted experience spanning real estate development, financial services, operations management, and impact-oriented investment. As the Principal and Chief Operating Officer of Synapse Development, Cyril has transformed the firm into a pioneering, technology-driven, and sustainability-focused real estate developer, operator, and investment manager.
At Synapse, Cyril has overseen more than $250 million in assets under management, leading initiatives that emphasize energy efficiency, innovation, and social impact. His stewardship includes the completion of landmark projects such as YOTEL San Francisco—a LEED Silver-certified hospitality development—and Perch Harlem, New York’s first multifamily building to achieve Passive House certification. These accomplishments reflect not only his mastery of real estate project execution but also his commitment to reducing environmental footprints and redefining urban living through thoughtful, data-driven development.
Cyril’s expertise spans the entire capital stack. He has successfully managed investor relations, tax compliance, and financial reporting while leading the firm’s operational teams with a lean, high-performance model. He is known for synthesizing complex information rapidly and making decisive, strategic calls that optimize portfolio value and investor outcomes. His work on Class C to B multifamily conversions in Upper Manhattan generated 2x equity multiples, further reinforcing his reputation as a savvy operator and capital strategist.
In addition to his work at Synapse, Cyril co-founded APX Capital, a boutique financial services firm focused on empowering emerging businesses through valuation modeling, pitch development, and capital markets strategy. He also launched TEC Partners, a real estate investment platform that targeted multifamily assets with high energy consumption, using proprietary models and sustainability-driven upgrades to unlock value.
Cyril’s global perspective is rooted in his early career at the United Nations, where he led the overhaul of the Peacekeeping Operations’ personnel testing system. His innovations led to a 400% efficiency gain and showcased his ability to streamline complex processes with technology and rigor. Born in Seychelles and now a naturalized U.S. citizen, Cyril speaks English, French, and Creole fluently, and considers himself a global citizen with an inclusive worldview.
Academically, Cyril holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Finance from New York University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics from Baruch College, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a full scholarship. His technical toolkit includes advanced skills in financial modeling, FP&A, capital markets, data analysis, and system optimization.
Beyond his professional achievements, Cyril is passionate about mentoring and coaching. He has delivered high-impact presentations to investor audiences, including billionaire stakeholders, and thrives in fast-paced, dynamic environments. His early morning meditation routine, coupled with a lifelong habit of learning, reflects a deeply grounded and disciplined leadership style. Personally, he enjoys spending time with family, traveling and discovering new cultures, boxing for wellness, boating, and staying mentally sharp through gaming and quiet reflection.
Cyril demonstrates his deep commitment to governance, strategic planning, and impact through his active board service with an international business firm and participation in a global investment syndicate.
Cyril Morel seeks board opportunities where he can contribute his operational expertise, financial discipline, and globally attuned mindset to organizations striving for meaningful growth and transformation. With a track record of innovation, resilience, and results, Cyril is not only a strategic asset to any boardroom—but also a leader who brings integrity, insight, and inspiration to every role he undertakes.
Character: Cyril Morel demonstrates integrity, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose, consistently leading with a values-driven and impact-oriented mindset.
Knowledge: He brings deep expertise in real estate development, finance, and operations, reinforced by global experience and advanced academic training.
Strategic: Cyril excels at synthesizing complex data to make agile, high-stakes decisions that drive value creation and long-term sustainability.
Communication: A persuasive and thoughtful communicator, he effectively engages stakeholders from investors to international teams, presenting with clarity and conviction.
