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.

Across over two decades 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 two decades 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 the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM).

As Senior Enterprise Solutions Administrator, April Tutor is responsible for supporting, maintaining and continually developing CSL’s Yardi database. April has over 20 years in the real estate industry, specifically within the commercial and multifamily sectors. She has worked in all facets of the business, including accounts payable, marketing, market research/underwriting and technology.

Prior to joining Capital Square Living, April was the vice president of Information Technology (IT) at Carter Funds where she was responsible for corporate IT operations and overseeing property IT operations, as well as 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 identify 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 Ray 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 Capital Square Living portfolio.

Having started his career in leasing and property operations, including roles in building maintenance and management, Chris developed a comprehensive understanding of asset performance from the ground up. This experience informs his current work, allowing him to bridge the gap between data analytics and day-to-day operations to deliver pricing strategies that are both strategic and highly actionable. 

Chris earned his B.A. from Bethany College.

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 Capital Square Living team. After working with renowned organizations like JP Morgan Chase and Bank of America, Rich followed his keen interest in the multifamily sector to roles at owner-operator companies such as Waterton and The Life Properties, where he effectively managed marketing for over 20,000+ units across markets spanning from the east to west coast.

Rich holds a bachelor's degree in finance from Norfolk State University. 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's well-rounded background in leasing, management, operations and marketing allows her to drive measurable outcomes that support the long-term success of the CS Living portfolio.

As Operations Manager, Debbie Friedhoff has direct oversight over utility management services, employee housing, and all operational and performance platforms’ support and functions. This includes managing all programs that drive ancillary income, including electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, bulk internet and cable revenue shares and door fees, guarantor programs, waste management, laundry and parking fees. Her efforts drive over $2 million annually. She additionally serves as liaison, support and advocate for the numerous communities Capital Square Living manages and services.

With over 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry, Debbie has a proven ability to provide high-quality outcomes and profitable results.

As Senior Regional Property Manager, Ashley King leads property management operations across her assigned portfolio, guiding teams to implement strategies, policies and practices that drive strong financial performance and operational success.

Ashley has nearly twenty years of multifamily experience with a primary focus in the Richmond market, where she still works today. Having worked with companies including Rangewater and Greystar prior to Capital Square Living, Ashley specializes in luxury assets including lease-ups, stabilized, conventional, and build for rent.

As a Regional Property Manager, Anouschka Bertell harnesses her passion for training and developing her team members for the empowerment of the total company. Her ability to create and lead teams has led to proven success time and time again.

Anouschka joined Capital Square Living after having successfully overseen several high-profile luxury assets across multiple markets in Georgia. Having worked under BH Management for over a decade, Anouschka has a myriad of experience in mid-rise, garden style, build for rent and retail property management. She is also an active participant in the Greater Atlanta Apartment Association.

As a Regional Property Manager, Donna Wallace oversees a portfolio of properties, directing on-site teams and executing Capital Square Living’s operational strategies to achieve budget targets and performance goals.

Donna has extensive experience in the Richmond market, having managed multiple Capital Square assets prior to Capital Square Living’s launch in her time with BH Management for nearly a decade. Donna joined our team as a Senior Community Manager overseeing several communities, but was quickly promoted because of everything she brings to the team.

Serving as a Regional Property Manager, Megan Hardy is responsible for guiding property teams and executing company strategies to ensure each asset meets financial expectations and operational benchmarks. She oversees the Williamsburg and Tidewater markets in Capital Square Living’s Virginia portfolio as well as Alabama and North Carolina.

Megan brings over 15 years of experience to the team and is actively involved with both local industry affiliates (VAMA) and national industry affiliates (NAA) on legal committees as well as serving as a delegate and an advocate for the organizations.

Megan is known for her passion about professional development, training and growing employees to reach their full potential.

As a Regional Property Manager, Kimberly Blazier drives performance across her defined portfolio by aligning teams with Capital Square Living’s policies and practices to achieve both financial and operational goals.

Kimberly boasts roughly 15 years of expertise in the multifamily management industry, demonstrating a profound dedication to team building and leadership. With a strong background at firms like BH Management and The Bainbridge Companies, she has honed her skills in fostering strong teams wherever she goes.

Kimberly's leadership qualities have shined in her past work as chairperson for a women’s forum in the D.C. market and as she sponsored students in marketing programs earlier in her career, showcasing her commitment to developing talent and driving success. Her ongoing and unwavering passion for training and mentorship has made her a respected figure in the industry.

Serving as a Regional Property Manager, Kirbi Suddeth manages a portfolio of assets by coaching team members and implementing processes that support financial objectives and elevate operational standards. She joined the Capital Square Living team with the firm’s Georgia transitions in Fall 2023 as an Area Property Manager, but she quickly rose to her new position. Her portfolio spans across Georgia and Florida markets.

With over 15 years of multifamily experience, Kirbi brings tremendous value to the Capital Square Living team. She has served numerous roles with the Mid-Georgia Apartment Association, including President, where she and her communities both have earned an award-winning 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.

As a Regional Property Manager, MacKenzie Wilk leads operational strategy and performance across Chattanooga’s multifamily portfolio. She oversees day-to-day operations and long-term planning, with a focus on financial excellence, operational consistency and an elevated resident experience while developing strong on-site leadership teams.

MacKenzie is passionate about advocacy, education and giving back through meaningful charitable initiatives. She has had the honor of representing the multifamily industry at both the state and national levels while mentoring and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.

As District Service Manager, Cole Spurgeon manages day-to-day service operations across a portfolio of communities, ensuring all facilities and grounds consistently meet company standards for safety, quality and functionality.

With over a decade of experience in the multifamily industry, Cole has held a variety of roles in maintenance, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the field. Prior to joining Capital Square Living, he gained experience through his time with property management firms, including Highpoint Residential and BH Management, where he 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.

He is also an active member of the Chattanooga Apartment Association, where he enjoys engaging with industry peers. He is especially passionate about tackling the challenges of property maintenance and is committed to mentoring colleagues, problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

As Regional Service Manager, Andrew Crooks directs technical and mechanical operations for multiple communities, ensuring all spaces — from common areas to building systems — are well-maintained and fully functional. His comprehensive understanding of his work ensures each property he oversees is maintained to the highest standards.

Andrew brings over two decades of expertise to the Capital Square Living team.

Known for his proactive approach and strong leadership, he has successfully managed multiple properties over his career, first in Northern Virginia and now the Richmond area.

As a District Service Manager, Bill Defriess oversees the upkeep and performance of numerous community facilities, maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety and operational efficiency across all assigned properties.

Bill has over two decades of experience in the multifamily industry. Starting as a maintenance technician at the age of 18, he quickly worked his way up by gaining experience in the field and earning his EPA and CPO licenses. He has also mentored many fellow team members as they have gained their certifications and elevated into supervisor roles.

In addition to his career in multifamily, Bill has dedicated over 20 years to serving his local community as a volunteer firefighter, where he has honed strong leadership and teamwork skills under pressure.

As District Service Manager, Daniel Hurtado leads maintenance operations across his assigned communities, ensuring buildings, grounds and amenities meet Capital Square Living’s standards for safety, functionality and overall appearance. Known for his leadership and attention to detail, Daniel has cultivated a reputation for excellence in service management across multiple properties.

With approximately a decade of experience in the multi-family industry, Daniel has consistently demonstrated his strong commitment to customer satisfaction and has successfully led service teams to ensure efficient, high-quality service delivery.

In addition to his operational expertise, Daniel has played a pivotal role in supporting the successful transition of numerous properties to management under Capital Square Living. 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.