FirstKey Homes Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

FirstKey Homes has 5 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, human resources, legal, and chief of staff.

Driven by a commitment to operational excellence, FirstKey Homes is dedicated to providing high-quality single-family rental homes, focusing on efficient property management and resident satisfaction to solidify its market position.

Leadership Roles at FirstKey Homes

  • Chief Operating Officer - Matthew James
  • Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer - Anthony Wong
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Burkart
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Alanna Mahone
  • Chief Legal Officer - Thomas DeRue
  • Matthew James - Chief Operating Officer

    Matthew James, the Chief Operating Officer at FirstKey Homes, directs all operational facets of the company's single-family rental home portfolio. Overseeing property management, maintenance, and resident services, James ensures efficient and high-quality operations across the entire geographic footprint. This leadership role involves optimizing workflows and resource allocation to enhance property value and resident satisfaction. By implementing best practices in property upkeep and tenant relations, Matthew James directly impacts the company's reputation and operational efficiency. Ultimately, James drives the day-to-day execution of FirstKey Homes' strategic objectives, ensuring seamless service delivery and sustained growth in the rental market. The Chief Operating Officer's purview extends to managing vendor relationships and ensuring compliance with all relevant housing regulations, critical for maintaining operational integrity and market leadership.

    Anthony Wong - Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer

    Anthony Wong, the Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer at FirstKey Homes, provides strategic support and drives key initiatives for the operations division. Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Wong facilitates cross-functional collaboration and ensures the efficient execution of operational strategies. This role involves managing special projects, analyzing operational data, and streamlining communication across departments to enhance overall performance. By coordinating critical projects and optimizing operational workflows, Anthony Wong directly supports the Chief Operating Officer's objectives and contributes to FirstKey Homes' market effectiveness. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive reports, facilitating leadership meetings, and ensuring alignment with corporate goals. Wong's role is pivotal in enhancing operational agility and driving strategic priorities forward.

    Robert Burkart - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Burkart, the Chief Information Officer at FirstKey Homes, architects the company's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Burkart ensures the seamless integration of digital solutions that support business objectives and enhance operational efficiency. This critical role involves managing data security, developing scalable IT systems, and driving innovation through technology adoption. By leveraging advanced analytics and robust IT frameworks, Robert Burkart directly supports FirstKey Homes' growth initiatives and operational resilience. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include leading the IT department, managing technology budgets, and ensuring that all systems align with the company's mission of providing exceptional rental experiences. Burkart's strategic vision for technology empowers the organization to maintain a competitive edge in the real estate sector.
    Robert Burkart

    Alanna Mahone - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Alanna Mahone, the Chief Human Resources Officer at FirstKey Homes, shapes the company's talent strategy and cultivates a high-performance culture. Overseeing all human resources functions, Mahone focuses on attracting, developing, and retaining top talent to support FirstKey Homes' expansion. This leadership position involves designing competitive compensation and benefits programs, implementing effective employee relations strategies, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. By championing employee engagement and professional development, Alanna Mahone directly contributes to the organization's overall success and operational capacity. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic initiatives ensure that the workforce is equipped to meet the evolving demands of the single-family rental market. Mahone's expertise in HR policy and organizational development is vital for sustaining FirstKey Homes' growth trajectory.
    Thomas DeRue, the Chief Legal Officer at FirstKey Homes, oversees all legal affairs and ensures regulatory compliance across the organization. Directing the legal department, DeRue provides strategic counsel on corporate governance, real estate transactions, and risk management. This essential function involves safeguarding the company's interests, mitigating legal risks, and ensuring adherence to all applicable laws and industry standards. By providing expert legal guidance and managing litigation, Thomas DeRue directly protects FirstKey Homes' assets and reputation. The Chief Legal Officer's responsibilities include advising the executive team and the board of directors on legal matters pertinent to the real estate sector. DeRue's leadership ensures that FirstKey Homes operates with the highest standards of legal integrity and corporate responsibility.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding FirstKey Homes Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads FirstKey Homes?
    FirstKey Homes is led by Matthew James (Chief Operating Officer), along with executives such as Anthony Wong (Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer) and Robert Burkart (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of FirstKey Homes’s executive team?
    The executive team of FirstKey Homes includes leaders such as Matthew James (Chief Operating Officer), Anthony Wong (Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer), Robert Burkart (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does FirstKey Homes have?
    FirstKey Homes has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in FirstKey Homes’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of FirstKey Homes includes roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Legal Officer.