LEADERSHIP TEAM

Gus Remppies has spent his entire career in the multifamily industry. Having been an executive officer of five public companies over the last 35 years, Gus most recently served as COO of Landmark Apartment Trust (formerly known as Grubb Ellis Apartment REIT), where he had responsibility and oversite of 700+ team members. Prior to his role as COO, he served in various executive-level capacities including chief investment officer, chief administrative officer and president. Landmark, which was sold in January 2016, owned and managed almost 24,000 apartment homes.

Previous roles in Gus’ career include serving as executive vice-president and CIO of Cornerstone Realty Income Trust, where his focus included acquisitions, dispositions, financing and development. During his tenure at Cornerstone, which also included time as senior vice-president of acquisitions, Gus oversaw the acquisition and development of more than 30,000 apartment homes as well as the placement of more than $500 million in debt, both secured and unsecured, with a variety of lenders.

Gus earned his B.S. from the Robins School of Business at the University of Richmond.

As executive vice president of Capital Square Living, Ryan Perez is responsible for marketing, business solutions, revenue management and learning and development. With a core focus on operational performance and business analytics her role guides Capital Square Living’s digital strategy, customer experience, expense control, rent growth and technology platforms.

Throughout her 19-year career in the multifamily industry, Ryan has worked with owner-mangers, third-party managers and REIT environments such as Cortland Partners, Landmark Apartment Trust and CF Real Estate Services (now RPM Living) with portfolio oversight of 35,000 units. Ryan earned her M.B.A. from the University of Illinois Champagne-Urbana and her B.A. from Bradley University. Ryan also holds her Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) designation and has been heavily involved in the National Apartment Association (NAA), serving on various committees such as the National Apartment Association Education Institute’s (NAAEI’s) curriculum development. Additionally, she serves on the Advisory Board for Better Bot, an industry-leading AI solution.

As Vice President of Operations, Sarah Connolly is responsible for oversight and providing strategic direction for operations and facilities management at Capital Square Living.

With 19 years of industry experience, Sarah brings expertise in property management, marketing, and new business. Formerly Managing Director at Cortland, Sarah was responsible for a portfolio up to 24,000 units and markets throughout the east coast. Her experience includes public and private environments for Cortland, Colonial Properties Trust, Grubb Properties, S.L. Nusbaum Realty, and Buckingham Companies.

Sarah earned her B.A. from Winthrop University and holds a Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation through IREM.

Andrea Shaw's extensive 17-year career in property management is marked by a diverse skill set and a commitment to learning and development. Her expertise spans operations, organizational development, marketing, and training, equipping her with a holistic perspective on adult education within the industry. Recognized internationally for her contributions to Learning and Development, Andrea holds prestigious certifications in leadership from Development Dimensions International (DDI), virtual facilitation, and is a certified Neurochange Master Practitioner (NCMP).

As Senior Enterprise Solutions Administrator, April is responsible for supporting, maintaining and the continual development of CSL’s Yardi database. April has over 23 years in the real estate industry, specifically within the commercial and multifamily sectors. She has worked in all facets including accounts payable, marketing, market research/underwriting, and technology.

Most recently, April was the VP of IT at Carter Funds where she was responsible for the corporate IT operations, and overseeing property IT operations, as well as the Yardi support services for the entire organization.

With 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry, Melissa Jones specializes in driving revenue growth and optimizing performance across diverse local markets. Throughout her career, she has consistently delivered results through a strategic blend of data-driven pricing, operational enhancements, and cross-functional collaboration.

She is currently responsible for supporting and executing CSL’s operational strategies by partnering closely with regional teams to identity opportunities, fine-tune pricing models, and implement revenue-enhancing initiatives tailored to each property’s unique needs. Melissa holds a B.S. in Business Information Management and has experience in asset oversight for conventional, lease-up, and LIHTC communities across 17 states.

Chris is responsible for pricing advisory services for the revenue management platform, driving increased occupancies, renewal ratios and overall revenue for the portfolio. He also has direct oversight of the budgeting process and platform, financial reporting, and special projects, directly impacting the financial performance of the CSL portfolio.

As the Director of Marketing at Capital Square Living, Rich Mitchell oversees the implementation and management of brand and marketing strategies. His role involves creating successful campaigns to boost revenue and sales growth, as well as supporting the operations of multifamily assets in the CS Living portfolio.

With a decade of diverse experience in finance, operations, and marketing, Rich brings valuable expertise to the CSL team. He holds a bachelor's degree in finance from Norfolk State University and has worked with renowned organizations like JP Morgan Chase and Bank of America. Rich's keen interest in the multifamily sector led him to roles at owner-operator companies such as Waterton and The Life Properties. In these roles he effectively managed marketing for over 20,000+ units across markets spanning from the east to west coast. Known for his infectious enthusiasm, Rich loves to collaborate with the onsite teams and is dedicated to providing the proper marketing and branding tools to aid in their success.

As the Regional Marketing Manager at Capital Square Living, Mariah Schwenk plays a key role in assisting with developing and executing innovative marketing strategies. These strategies drive leasing success and elevate the visibility of multifamily communities across the CS Living portfolio. Working closely with the Director of Marketing, she ensures each community meets its marketing goals while supporting overall operational performance.

With nearly a decade of multifamily industry experience, Mariah brings a well-rounded background in leasing, management, operations, and marketing. Through strategic collaboration with the Director of Marketing, Operations teams, and on-site team members, Mariah is committed to delivering measurable outcomes that support the long-term success of the CS Living portfolio.

Anna has over 20 years of experience in the multi-family industry handling new construction lease-ups, conventional communities, and establishing an in-depth knowledge of working successfully in military markets.

Anna loves and thrives on training and empowering other employees to operate at their fullest potential. She has great knowledge of acquisitions and dispositions. In addition to holding her ARM certification, Anna also holds a Tennessee Real Estate License.

Ashley King brings close to twenty years of Multifamily experience with a primary focus in the Richmond market. Having worked with some reputable companies such as Rangewater and Greystar, Ashley specializes in luxury assets including lease-ups, stabilized, conventional, and build-to-rent.

Anouschka Bertell comes to Capital Square Living after having successfully oversaw several high-profile luxury assets across multiple markets in Georgia. Having most recently worked under BH Management over the last 11 years, Anouschka comes with a myriad of experience in mid-rise, garden style, build for rent, and retail. In addition, her ability to create and lead teams has led to proven success time and time again. Anouschka has a passion for training and developing her team members and is an active participant in the local Apartment affiliation, Greater Atlanta Apartment Association.

Donna Wallace has extensive experience in the Richmond market, overseeing multiple Capital Square assets under BH Management for nearly a decade. Donna was recently promoted from a Senior Community Manager overseeing several communities to a Regional Property Manager.

Megan oversees the Williamsburg and Tidewater markets in our VA portfolio as well as AL and NC. She brings 15 years of experience and is actively involved with both local industry affiliates (VAMA) and national industry affiliates (NAA) in their legal committee capacities and serves as a delegate and an advocate for the committee.

Megan is passionate about professional development, training, and growing employee’s to reach their full potential.

Kimberly Blazier boasts 14 years of expertise in the multifamily management industry, demonstrating a profound dedication to team building and leadership. With a strong background at reputable companies like BH Management and The Bainbridge Companies, Kimberly has honed her skills in fostering strong teams wherever she goes.

Her unwavering passion for training and mentorship has made her a respected figure in the industry. Kimberly's leadership qualities shine through as she held the position of chairperson for a forum of women in the DC market and sponsored students in marketing programs early in her career, showcasing her commitment to developing talent and driving success.

Kirbi joined the Capital Square Living team with our Georgia transitions as an Area Property Manager in Fall of 2023, since then she has been promoted to Regional Property Manager. In this role, her portfolio spans across Georgia and Florida markets. With 16 years of Multifamily experience, Kirbi brings tremendous value to the CSL team. Kirbi has served numerous roles with the Mid-Georgia Apartment Association, including President, where she and her communities both have earned an awardable reputation under her direction. Most importantly, she has a passion for helping her team members grow in their positions and learn new skills that will lead them to the next step in their careers.

Joy brings over 25 years of expertise in the multifamily industry to Capital Square Living. With a successful tenure of 9 years at BH Management, Joy has honed her skills across a wide array of property types, including lease-ups, mid-rise, garden style, and student housing communities. A passionate advocate for professional growth, Joy excels in training and developing her team members, empowering them to achieve their highest potential. Joy earned a Bachelor of Science from Georgia Southern University.

With 20+ years of experience in the multi-family industry Debbie has a proven ability to provide high-quality outcomes and profitable results. With direct oversight of utility management services, employee housing, and all operational and performance platforms support and functions she will serve as a liaison, support, and advocate to the communities in which we manage and service.

With over a decade of experience in the multi-family industry, Cole has held a variety of roles in maintenance, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the field. He has effectively maintained and rehabilitated properties over 50 years old, in addition to contributing to new construction and lease-up projects. Cole holds both EPA Universal Certification and Certification as a Pool & Spa Operator.

Throughout his career, he has worked with several respected organizations, including Highpoint Residential, BH Management, and Capital Square Living. Currently, Cole is an active member of the Chattanooga Apartment Association, where he engages with industry peers. He is passionate about tackling the challenges of property maintenance and is committed to mentoring colleagues in problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

Andrew Crooks is a dedicated District Service Manager, bringing over two decades of expertise to the Capital Square Living team. 

Beginning his career nearly twenty years ago, he has developed a comprehensive understanding of operations, maintenance, and team management, ensuring each property he oversees is maintained to the highest standards. Known for his proactive approach and strong leadership, he has successfully managed multiple properties over his career in Northern Virginia and now the Richmond area.

As a District Service Manager, Bill Defriess has over two decades of experience in the multi-family industry. Starting as a maintenance technician at the age of 18, he quickly worked his way up in the industry by gaining experience in the field and earning his EPA and CPO licenses. He has coached many team members under him on their way to gaining their certifications and supervisor roles.

In addition to his career in multi-family, Bill has dedicated over 20 years to his local community as a volunteer firefighter where his leadership and teamwork skills were strengthened.

With 9 years of experience in the multi-family industry, Daniel Hurtado has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and has successfully led service teams to ensure efficient, high-quality service delivery. Known for his leadership and attention to detail, Daniel has cultivated a reputation for excellence in service management across multiple properties.

In addition to his operational expertise, Daniel played a pivotal role in mentoring and supporting the successful transition of properties from June to September 2024. His industry knowledge is enhanced by certifications in EPA, CPO, OSHA-10 Safety, and DPOR Fair Housing, showcasing his diverse skill set and dedication to professional growth.