Career Spotlight: Brette Hemmings
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Name: Brette Hemmings
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Tell us about your career:
I began my career with Hawthorne Residential Partners in 2012 at what was then the newest development in Greensboro—Hawthorne at Bridford. At the time, I had no prior experience in the multifamily industry, but I quickly fell in love with leasing and the opportunity to help people find their new home.
From there, I advanced into roles as Assistant Manager and Community Manager, supporting several successful lease-ups throughout the Triad. I also had the opportunity to work at our corporate office as the Customer Service Support Specialist, which broadened my perspective on operations and resident relations at a portfolio-wide level.
Eventually, I returned to the field to manage Hawthorne at Friendly, our newest development at the time. Despite launching during COVID and offering the highest rents in Greensboro, the community performed exceptionally well and leased up quickly due to strong demand and a committed team.
Today, I serve as a Regional Vice President overseeing nine communities across the Triad and Greenville, SC. I take great pride in mentoring teams, driving performance, and contributing to the success and growth of our portfolio.
What advice do you have for someone just starting in your field:
My advice would be to stay curious, be adaptable, and lead with empathy. When I first started in the multifamily industry, I didn’t have prior experience—but I asked questions, listened closely, and took every opportunity to learn from those around me.
It’s also important to understand that property management is as much about people as it is about operations. Whether it’s a resident, a team member, or a vendor partner, strong relationships and clear communication are key to long-term success.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Some of the biggest growth moments in my career came from saying “yes” to new challenges—whether that meant managing a lease-up, working at the corporate level, or leading multiple teams across a region. Every step taught me something new and helped shape the leader I am today.