Cortland Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cortland has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, marketing, human resources, and investment management.

Focused on delivering resident-centered housing solutions, Cortland maintains a commitment to excellence in multifamily real estate investment, development, and property management across the United States and the United Kingdom.

Leadership Roles at Cortland

  • Chief Executive Officer - Stephen DeFrancis
  • Owner & Chief Executive Officer - Mike Levy
  • Chief Financial Officer - Sandra Kim
  • President - Philip De
  • President - Pete Koelle
  • President, Investment Management - Jason Kern
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Carol Hoeller
  • Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff - Grace Brandes
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Kevin Ingham
  • Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff - Thomas Kramer
  • Stephen DeFrancis - Chief Executive Officer

    Stephen DeFrancis, the Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, directs the overarching vision for this vertically integrated multifamily real estate firm. By prioritizing resident-focused housing, DeFrancis shapes the strategic direction of property acquisitions and development projects across the United States and the United Kingdom. The Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous oversight of the company's investment portfolio, ensuring that every apartment community meets high standards of operational excellence. Through constant evaluation of market trends, Stephen DeFrancis drives long-term value for stakeholders while fostering a culture of innovation within the organization. This leadership role involves coordinating with the executive team to refine property management services and expand the firm's footprint in key global markets. By aligning corporate goals with resident needs, the Chief Executive Officer secures the firm's position as a leader in the real estate sector, consistently delivering high-quality living environments that define the modern multifamily experience.

    Mike Levy - Owner & Chief Executive Officer

    Mike Levy, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, architects the foundational business model that supports the firm's extensive multifamily real estate portfolio. As the Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Levy manages the complex intersection of property development and investment services, ensuring that the company remains agile in both the United States and the United Kingdom markets. This role involves deep engagement with capital allocation strategies and the long-term sustainability of apartment communities. By overseeing the integration of property management with development initiatives, Mike Levy ensures that the firm delivers consistent value to residents and investors alike. The Owner & Chief Executive Officer monitors operational performance across all regions, driving efficiency and growth through disciplined asset management. Through this comprehensive approach, the firm maintains a competitive edge, consistently setting benchmarks for quality and service in the multifamily industry while navigating the complexities of global real estate markets.

    Sandra Kim - Chief Financial Officer

    Sandra Kim, the Chief Financial Officer at Cortland, manages the fiscal health and capital structure of this vertically integrated real estate enterprise. Overseeing financial planning, reporting, and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the firm possesses the necessary resources to support large-scale development and acquisition projects across the United States and the United Kingdom. Sandra Kim directs the financial strategy, working closely with the executive team to optimize investment returns and maintain robust balance sheets. By analyzing market data and economic indicators, the Chief Financial Officer provides critical insights that guide the firm's expansion efforts. This leadership role involves maintaining transparency with stakeholders and ensuring compliance with international financial standards. Through meticulous oversight of capital allocation, Kim supports the company's mission to deliver resident-focused housing, ensuring that every financial decision contributes to the long-term stability and growth of the entire multifamily portfolio.
    Sandra Kim

    Philip De - President

    Philip De, the President at Cortland, directs the operational activities and business development efforts for the firm's multifamily real estate portfolio. As the President, De oversees the day-to-day management of property operations and development projects across the United States and the United Kingdom. This role involves ensuring that the company's resident-focused housing model is consistently applied across all communities, driving high levels of resident satisfaction and operational efficiency. Philip De collaborates with the executive team to refine the firm's investment strategy and expand its market reach. By monitoring performance metrics and market trends, the President ensures that the company remains a leader in the real estate sector. Through this leadership, De supports the firm's mission to deliver exceptional living environments, ensuring that every property meets the highest standards of quality and service. By focusing on operational excellence, the President drives the company's growth and long-term success in the competitive multifamily market.

    Pete Koelle - President

    Pete Koelle, the President at Cortland, directs the strategic expansion and asset management initiatives for the firm's multifamily real estate holdings. As the President, Koelle focuses on optimizing the performance of the company's investment portfolio across the United States and the United Kingdom. This role involves overseeing the acquisition and renovation of apartment communities, ensuring that each project aligns with the firm's commitment to resident-focused housing. Pete Koelle collaborates with investment and development teams to identify new opportunities and enhance the value of existing assets. By implementing rigorous management standards, the President ensures that the company delivers superior living experiences while achieving strong financial returns. Through this leadership, Koelle supports the firm's mission to provide high-quality housing solutions, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the multifamily industry. By focusing on asset optimization and market growth, the President drives the firm's continued success and operational excellence.

    Jason Kern - President, Investment Management

    Jason Kern, the President, Investment Management at Cortland, directs the firm's capital deployment and investment strategies within the multifamily real estate sector. As the President, Investment Management, Kern oversees the acquisition, financing, and portfolio management of apartment communities across the United States and the United Kingdom. This role involves analyzing market opportunities and structuring investments that align with the company's mission of delivering resident-focused housing. Jason Kern collaborates with the executive team to ensure that the firm's investment portfolio remains robust and capable of generating long-term value. By monitoring economic conditions and real estate trends, the President, Investment Management provides the strategic guidance necessary to navigate complex market environments. Through this leadership, Kern supports the company's growth objectives, ensuring that the firm maintains its position as a leader in multifamily real estate investment. By focusing on disciplined capital allocation, the President, Investment Management drives the firm's financial performance and operational success.

    Carol Hoeller - Chief Marketing Officer

    Carol Hoeller, the Chief Marketing Officer at Cortland, directs the brand strategy and resident engagement initiatives for the firm's diverse portfolio of apartment communities. By crafting compelling narratives that highlight the value of resident-focused housing, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the company maintains a strong market presence across the United States and the United Kingdom. Carol Hoeller oversees the development of digital marketing campaigns and customer experience programs that drive occupancy and resident satisfaction. This leadership role involves collaborating with property management teams to ensure brand consistency and service excellence at every touchpoint. By leveraging data-driven insights, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes marketing spend and enhances the firm's reputation as a premier provider of multifamily living solutions. Through strategic communication and brand positioning, Hoeller supports the company's growth objectives, ensuring that the firm remains the preferred choice for residents seeking high-quality, well-managed apartment communities in competitive global markets.
    Carol Hoeller

    Grace Brandes - Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff

    Grace Brandes, the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff at Cortland, executes high-priority initiatives that align with the firm's long-term operational goals. As the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff, Brandes facilitates communication between the executive leadership and various departments to ensure seamless project execution across the United States and the United Kingdom. This role involves managing complex workflows related to property development and investment management, ensuring that every strategic project meets the firm's rigorous standards. Grace Brandes monitors progress on key initiatives, identifying potential bottlenecks and implementing solutions to maintain momentum. By coordinating cross-functional teams, the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff ensures that the company's mission of delivering resident-focused housing remains at the forefront of all operational activities. Through this focused leadership, Brandes drives organizational efficiency and supports the firm's ability to scale its multifamily operations effectively in diverse geographic markets.

    Kevin Ingham - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Kevin Ingham, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Cortland, directs the talent strategy and organizational development for the firm's workforce across the United States and the United Kingdom. By fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the company attracts and retains the top talent necessary to manage its extensive multifamily portfolio. Kevin Ingham oversees recruitment, training, and performance management programs that align with the firm's commitment to resident-focused housing and property management. This leadership role involves developing policies that support employee growth and operational efficiency, ensuring that the workforce remains equipped to handle the complexities of the real estate industry. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the company's mission, ensuring that every team member contributes to the firm's reputation for quality and service. By prioritizing employee engagement, Ingham drives the organizational stability required to sustain long-term growth and success.

    Thomas Kramer - Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff

    Thomas Kramer, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff at Cortland, manages the execution of critical business projects that support the firm's multifamily real estate objectives. As the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff, Kramer coordinates with executive leadership to streamline operations and implement strategic improvements across the United States and the United Kingdom. This role involves analyzing project performance and ensuring that all initiatives align with the company's mission of delivering resident-focused housing. Thomas Kramer facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring that development and property management teams work in harmony to achieve corporate goals. By overseeing the implementation of new processes and technologies, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff drives operational excellence and supports the firm's ability to adapt to changing market conditions. Through this dedicated leadership, Kramer ensures that the company maintains its competitive advantage and continues to deliver high-quality living experiences to residents.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cortland Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Cortland?
    Cortland is led by Stephen DeFrancis (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mike Levy (Owner & Chief Executive Officer) and Sandra Kim (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Cortland’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cortland includes leaders such as Stephen DeFrancis (Chief Executive Officer), Mike Levy (Owner & Chief Executive Officer), Sandra Kim (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cortland have?
    Cortland has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cortland’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cortland includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, President.