Principal and Managing Partner

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Barrie Nichols is a seasoned professional with more than two decades of invaluable experience in the student housing industry. Her remarkable journey began in the heart of the student housing space, where her dedication and expertise propelled her to the role of Senior Vice President of Sales and Leasing at College Park Communities. Here, Barrie played a pivotal role in steering the company's leasing operations to success.

With her exceptional leadership skills and keen business acumen, Barrie transitioned to GMH Communities Trust, a pivotal moment as the company went public with an extensive portfolio comprising over 100 properties across 40 states. Notably, under her stewardship, occupancies consistently exceeded 96%, a testament to her strategic vision and operational prowess.

In 2007, Barrie embarked on a new chapter of her career by joining Campus Apartments as Vice President of Leasing and Marketing. Here, she played a crucial role in facilitating the company's rapid growth, transforming a smaller footprint of local properties into a robust portfolio spanning 70 properties across 27 states.

Recognized for her exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial spirit, Barrie co-founded University Student Living Management group within the Michaels Organization in 2015. In this capacity, she spearheaded new development leasing and marketing efforts while establishing the corporate infrastructure for effective management operations.

In 2021, Barrie assumed the role of Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at NP Partners, where she took charge of revitalizing a distressed group of properties. Through her strategic initiatives and unwavering commitment to excellence, Barrie successfully led the charge to improve occupancies to above 98%, marking yet another remarkable achievement in her illustrious career.

Barrie Nichols is a visionary leader known for her ability to navigate complex challenges, drive operational efficiency, and deliver outstanding results. Her passion for the student housing industry, coupled with her extensive experience and innovative approach, makes her a highly sought-after expert in the field.

Benjamin Reichert brings over two decades of distinguished experience in the Student Housing industry, advancing from Resident Advisor to Regional Vice President. He has consistently demonstrated exceptional proficiency in program planning, trade shows, event and conference coordination, marketing and leasing, operations, and training. Ben excels in managing both new construction and renovation lease-ups, with a career spanning over 25 markets in 15 states, encompassing a diverse portfolio of properties ranging from stable to distressed.

Ben possesses extensive expertise in property management, with a particular emphasis on operations, renovations, and new developments. He has adeptly overseen numerous large-scale renovation projects and led the development of new housing communities. His comprehensive knowledge of property management includes optimizing operational efficiencies, implementing robust maintenance programs, and ensuring exemplary standards of resident satisfaction.

Ben's dedication to sustainable development is further evidenced by his 16 years of active involvement in the non-profit sector, contributing to impactful projects across Asia, Africa, and the South Pacific. His contributions in this field include pioneering micro-financing models, grant writing, installing bore-wells and sanitation facilities, initiating agricultural projects, conducting health education classes, and spearheading business and leadership development programs.

A graduate of Utah Valley University with a degree in Community Health Education, Ben is committed to making a positive impact both professionally and personally.

 With over 14 years of experience in financial management and accounting, Gene Bybee is an expert in bankruptcy accounting, property accounting, and financial operations. He currently serves as our controller at Specialty Management Consultants, providing top-tier financial consulting services to help clients optimize their financial processes.

Previously, Gene was the Property Management Controller at NP Partners. There, he collaborated with lawyers, receivers, and the US Justice Department on bankruptcy proceedings, ensuring compliance and financial integrity. He led cash management and forecasting, maintained strong banking relationships, and worked closely with vendors and external accounting firms.

Gene's earlier roles include managing financial statements, lease administration, and annual budget preparation in various accounting positions. He holds a Masters in Accounting and a B.A. in Accounting from Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, UT.

Gene specializes in improving financial processes and compliance, enhancing long-term financial health, and maximizing value. He is dedicated to financial integrity and consistently strives to exceed client and stakeholder expectations.