Leadership Overview
Cortland has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, investment, marketing, human resources, and project implementation.
Focused on delivering resident-centered housing solutions, Cortland transforms the multifamily real estate landscape through vertically integrated investment, development, and property management services across the United States and the United Kingdom.
Focused on delivering resident-centered housing solutions, Cortland transforms the multifamily real estate landscape through vertically integrated investment, development, and property management services across the United States and the United Kingdom.
Leadership Roles at Cortland
Stephen DeFrancis - Chief Executive Officer
Stephen DeFrancis, the Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, directs the overarching vision and long-term investment strategy for the firm. By overseeing the acquisition and development of multifamily assets, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the portfolio maintains high performance across diverse markets. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to optimize capital allocation and asset value. Stephen DeFrancis maintains rigorous standards for property management excellence, ensuring every apartment community meets the specific needs of residents. Through the integration of development and management functions, the Chief Executive Officer drives operational efficiency and sustainable growth. The executive maintains close collaboration with the board to refine the corporate trajectory, ensuring the firm remains a leader in the real estate sector. By prioritizing resident satisfaction and operational excellence, the Chief Executive Officer secures the competitive position of the organization within the global multifamily housing market.
Mike Levy - Owner & Chief Executive Officer
Mike Levy, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at Cortland, architects the foundational business model and strategic expansion initiatives for the company. As the Owner & Chief Executive Officer, the executive focuses on the financial health and structural integrity of the organization, ensuring alignment between investment goals and property management execution. This role involves navigating complex real estate landscapes to identify high-growth opportunities across the United States and the United Kingdom. Mike Levy drives the organizational culture, emphasizing a resident-first approach that defines the brand identity. By managing the intersection of development and investment, the executive ensures that every project delivers long-term value to stakeholders. The Owner & Chief Executive Officer maintains oversight of capital deployment, ensuring that resources support the mission of providing superior living environments. Through disciplined leadership, the executive fosters innovation in property management, consistently elevating the standard of service provided to residents.
Pete Koelle - President
Pete Koelle, the President at Cortland, directs the day-to-day operations and tactical execution of the company's multifamily real estate business. As the President, the executive oversees the performance of property management teams and ensures that all communities meet the firm's high standards for resident satisfaction. This role involves managing the operational scale of the business across the United States and the United Kingdom. Pete Koelle drives the implementation of operational policies that enhance asset value and improve resident experiences. By collaborating with other C-suite leaders, the President ensures that operational activities remain aligned with the broader investment and development strategy. The executive monitors key performance indicators to identify areas for improvement and growth. Through effective leadership of the operational teams, the President ensures that the firm maintains its competitive position and continues to deliver high-quality housing solutions to residents in all markets.
Karen Sheldon - Executive Business Partner To the President
Karen Sheldon, the Executive Business Partner To the President at Cortland, directs the administrative and strategic support functions for the office of the President. As the Executive Business Partner To the President, the executive manages the prioritization of initiatives and ensures that the President remains focused on critical business objectives. This role involves coordinating communication between the President and other leadership members to ensure alignment on key projects. Karen Sheldon oversees the preparation of reports and data analysis that inform strategic decision-making. By managing the workflow of the executive office, the Executive Business Partner To the President ensures that the firm's operations remain efficient and responsive. The executive plays a vital role in facilitating the execution of the company's mission by ensuring that the President has the necessary resources and information to lead effectively. Through proactive management of the executive agenda, the executive supports the overall success of the organization.
Philip De - President
Philip De, the President at Cortland, directs the expansion and development strategies that drive the company's growth in the multifamily real estate sector. As the President, the executive focuses on identifying new market opportunities and overseeing the development of high-quality apartment communities. This role involves managing the financial and operational aspects of development projects, ensuring that they deliver value to investors and residents alike. Philip De coordinates with the investment and property management teams to ensure a seamless transition from development to operations. By analyzing regional market dynamics, the President identifies areas for strategic expansion and asset acquisition. The executive works closely with the leadership team to refine the company's development pipeline and ensure that all projects align with the firm's commitment to resident-focused housing. Through disciplined oversight of the development process, the President ensures that the firm continues to expand its footprint and maintain its reputation for excellence.
Carol Hoeller - Chief Marketing Officer
Carol Hoeller, the Chief Marketing Officer at Cortland, directs the brand strategy and resident engagement initiatives that define the company's market presence. As the Chief Marketing Officer, the executive oversees the development of digital campaigns and communication strategies that highlight the unique value proposition of the firm's multifamily communities. This role involves analyzing consumer behavior to tailor marketing efforts that drive occupancy and resident retention. Carol Hoeller ensures that the brand message remains consistent across all regional operations, from the United States to the United Kingdom. By collaborating with property management teams, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes the resident experience, ensuring that marketing efforts translate into tangible community growth. The executive manages the creative direction of the firm, ensuring that all outreach reflects the commitment to resident-focused housing. Through data-driven insights, the Chief Marketing Officer continuously refines the brand strategy to maintain a competitive edge in the multifamily real estate sector.

Kevin Ingham - Chief Human Resources Officer
Kevin Ingham, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Cortland, directs the talent acquisition, organizational development, and employee engagement strategies for the firm. As the Chief Human Resources Officer, the executive ensures that the workforce possesses the skills necessary to support the company's vertically integrated business model. This role involves designing programs that foster a culture of excellence and resident-focused service. Kevin Ingham oversees the implementation of performance management systems that align individual contributions with corporate objectives. By managing human capital across diverse geographic regions, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization maintains a high standard of operational efficiency. The executive works with other leadership members to identify future talent needs and develop leadership pipelines. Through the creation of inclusive and supportive work environments, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives employee retention and productivity, ensuring that the firm remains well-positioned to achieve its strategic goals in the multifamily real estate industry.
Grace Connell - Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff
Grace Connell, the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff at Cortland, directs the execution of high-priority initiatives that support the company's operational goals. As the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff, the executive manages the flow of information and strategic alignment between the executive office and various departments. This role involves overseeing the lifecycle of complex projects, ensuring that timelines and deliverables meet the firm's rigorous standards. Grace Connell facilitates cross-functional collaboration, ensuring that all teams work in harmony to achieve the company's mission. By monitoring project performance and identifying potential bottlenecks, the Director, Strategic Project Implementation & Chief of Staff ensures that the organization remains agile and responsive to market changes. The executive provides critical support to the leadership team, enabling the effective implementation of strategic decisions. Through meticulous project management, the executive ensures that the firm continues to deliver high-quality results across its multifamily portfolio.
Thomas Kramer - Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff
Thomas Kramer, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff at Cortland, architects the framework for large-scale operational improvements and strategic initiatives. As the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff, the executive focuses on optimizing internal processes to enhance the efficiency of property management and development activities. This role involves coordinating with senior leadership to translate high-level strategy into actionable project plans. Thomas Kramer oversees the implementation of new technologies and operational standards that support the firm's growth. By managing the intersection of strategic planning and daily execution, the Senior Director, Strategic Projects & Chief of Staff ensures that the organization remains focused on its core mission of resident-centered housing. The executive provides essential support to the leadership team, ensuring that all projects align with the company's long-term objectives. Through rigorous project oversight, the executive drives continuous improvement and operational excellence across the entire organization.
Amanda Delevett - Managing Director
Amanda Delevett, the Managing Director at Cortland, oversees the execution of complex investment strategies and operational workflows. As the Managing Director, the executive coordinates cross-functional teams to ensure that development projects align with the broader corporate mission of delivering high-quality multifamily housing. This role involves managing relationships with key stakeholders and ensuring that investment portfolios meet performance benchmarks. Amanda Delevett drives the implementation of operational improvements, focusing on efficiency and resident satisfaction across the portfolio. By analyzing market data and regional trends, the Managing Director identifies opportunities for asset optimization and growth. The executive works closely with other leadership members to refine the strategic direction of the firm, ensuring that all initiatives support the long-term vision. Through meticulous oversight of project lifecycles, the Managing Director ensures that the company maintains its reputation for excellence in the competitive real estate market.
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