Career Spotlight: Jennifer Pittman
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Name: Jennifer Pittman
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Tell us about your career:
Rooted in a deep passion for multifamily housing and a drive for operational excellence, my journey through site-level roles to executive leadership has been shaped by a shared commitment to elevating communities, mentoring future leaders, and contributing to the growth of our industry.
I began my career in property management in 2012 as an Assistant Property Manager with A-Venture Management, working directly for an owner/operator who was also a North Carolina State Legislator and attorney. That foundational role provided a front-row seat to the intricacies of ownership, operations, and legislation in real estate—and it sparked a passion that continues to drive my career today. Over the years, I steadily advanced from Property Manager to Regional Property Manager and eventually to Chief Operating Officer. During that time, I helped lead over $70 million in successful sales and $18 million in acquisitions, overseeing all aspects of due diligence, operations, compliance, and financial performance.
In 2015, I earned my CAM (Certified Apartment Manager) credential through the National Apartment Association, marking an early commitment to professional development and excellence in operations. By 2018, my efforts were recognized when I received Property of the Year and Regional Property Manager of the Year from the Greater Fayetteville Apartment Association. That same year, one of the communities I oversaw was awarded Best Apartment Complex by the Fayetteville Observer's Reader’s Choice Awards—an honor it received again in 2019.
In 2020, I earned my CAPS (Certified Apartment Portfolio Specialist) designation through NAA, further strengthening my ability to lead multiple assets and support large-scale performance goals. That year, I also graduated from the AANC Leadership Lyceum and joined the Board of Directors for the Apartment Association of North Carolina. I served as President of the Greater Fayetteville Apartment Association from 2020 to 2021, and continue to serve as its Education Committee Chair today.
In April 2022, I joined Apartment Dynamics as a Property Manager at a community in need of a strategic turnaround—facing significant challenges in reputation, delinquency, and income. It was a defining opportunity, and by September 2022, I had successfully reduced monthly delinquency from $70,000 to under $100, implemented operational improvements, and repositioned the asset both financially and reputationally. That transformation led to my being named Community Manager of the Year and the community receiving Rehab of the Year—a proud moment that represented the collaboration, hard work, and determination of the entire team.
In April 2023, I was promoted to Regional Property Manager with Apartment Dynamics and entrusted with a growing portfolio that has seen measurable increases in ROI, income, and resident satisfaction under my leadership. I’m passionate about asset performance, staff development, and building strong, sustainable communities.
My commitment to the industry extends far beyond day-to-day operations. I was introduced to the value of industry involvement by mentor Catina Rhinehart, who encouraged me to get involved with the Cumberland County Apartment Association. That initial encouragement led to a deeply fulfilling path of service and leadership at the local, state, and national levels. In 2022, I was honored with a 40 Under 40 designation, and in 2023, I completed the National Apartment Association’s Leadership Lyceum program as part of their prestigious class.
Education and developing the next generation of leaders are true passions of mine. I’ve served on industry education committees since 2016 and take great pride in mentoring team members, fostering their growth, and watching them evolve into leaders in their own right. Most recently, in July 2024, I earned my North Carolina Broker’s License—continuing my own professional development and expanding my ability to serve in this dynamic and ever-changing industry.
Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have the guidance and encouragement of several remarkable mentors. Tracey Beck, Lisa Bisher, and Mary Gwyn have each played a critical role in shaping my leadership, sharpening my skills, and expanding my understanding of this business. I am continuously inspired by their insight, and I love learning from them daily.
Every step of my career has been shaped by a commitment to learning, leadership, and service. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for the continued growth and opportunities that lie ahead in this industry I love.
What advice do you have for someone just starting in your field:
Embrace every role as a learning opportunity.
“No matter where you start, how you show up matters.”
Anything else you would like to share:
My journey has been rooted in purpose—elevating communities, mentoring future leaders, and leading with integrity. I believe the best leaders are those who lift others as they rise, and I’m passionate about continuing that work every day. If there's one thing I know for certain, it's that we rise by investing in people and never stop learning.