FirstKey Homes Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

FirstKey Homes has 5 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, human resources, legal, and operational support.

Driven by a commitment to operational excellence, FirstKey Homes is dedicated to providing high-quality single-family rental homes, focusing on resident satisfaction and efficient property management to deliver value across the real estate market.

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, oversees the day-to-day operational execution of the company's extensive single-family rental portfolio. This critical role involves managing property operations, resident relations, and field service delivery across numerous markets. James drives initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, maintain property standards, and ensure resident satisfaction, directly impacting the company's performance and market reputation. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include optimizing maintenance processes, managing vendor relationships, and implementing best practices for property upkeep and leasing. By focusing on scalable operational frameworks, Matthew James supports FirstKey Homes' growth objectives and its commitment to providing quality housing solutions. This leadership position is central to translating strategic goals into tangible operational outcomes.

    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 operational coordination to the Chief Operating Officer. Wong facilitates the execution of key operational initiatives, manages cross-functional projects, and ensures alignment between strategic priorities and daily operations. This role involves streamlining communication, enhancing decision-making processes, and driving efficiency across the operational departments. The Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer acts as a key liaison, bridging strategic planning with practical implementation to support the company's extensive single-family rental home management. Anthony Wong's contributions are vital in optimizing the COO's effectiveness and ensuring the seamless operation of FirstKey Homes' property management functions across its national portfolio.

    Robert Burkart - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Burkart, the Chief Information Officer at FirstKey Homes, directs the company's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Burkart ensures the robust and scalable deployment of systems critical to managing a large portfolio of single-family rental properties. This leadership role involves architecting solutions that enhance operational efficiency, support data analytics for market insights, and maintain the security of sensitive company and resident information. By driving technological innovation, Robert Burkart enables FirstKey Homes to optimize property management processes, streamline resident services, and maintain a competitive edge in the real estate sector. The Chief Information Officer's focus extends to evaluating emerging technologies that can further improve the company's operational capabilities and resident experience across its national footprint.
    Robert Burkart

    Alanna Mahone - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Alanna Mahone, the Chief Human Resources Officer at FirstKey Homes, leads all aspects of human capital management and organizational development. Mahone is responsible for cultivating a strong company culture, attracting and retaining top talent, and developing comprehensive HR strategies that align with FirstKey Homes' business objectives. This executive function encompasses talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and performance management across the organization. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the company's workforce is equipped with the skills and support necessary to drive operational success and resident satisfaction. By fostering an environment of growth and engagement, Alanna Mahone contributes significantly to the company's ability to scale its operations effectively and maintain high standards in the competitive real estate market.
    Thomas DeRue, the Chief Legal Officer at FirstKey Homes, directs all legal affairs and ensures compliance across the organization. DeRue oversees the legal framework governing FirstKey Homes' operations, including real estate transactions, property management, corporate governance, and regulatory adherence. This executive position is critical for mitigating legal risks, managing litigation, and advising on legal strategies that support the company's growth and operational objectives. The Chief Legal Officer ensures that all business practices align with federal, state, and local laws, safeguarding the company's interests and reputation. Thomas DeRue's expertise is essential in navigating the complex legal landscape of the real estate industry, providing robust counsel that enables FirstKey Homes to operate efficiently and ethically.

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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.