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Committed to authenticity, transparency, and trust.
At Birchstone, we believe in striking the perfect balance of time-tested
experience and refreshing authenticity. Trust, recognition, service, and support — they’re more than just words. We make it our mission to hire the best talent, and then stand back and let them shine.
Executive Leadership Team
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Frank Roessler
Founder and CEO
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Frank Roessler
Founder and CEO
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JoAnn Blaylock
President
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JoAnn Blaylock
President
JoAnn Blaylock is a seasoned leader in the multifamily management industry, boasting over 35 years of invaluable experience. Her impressive career includes a decade-long tenure as the president of a top management company, where she refined her skills in overseeing diverse portfolios. Specializing in luxury class A urban, mixed-use, high-rise, garden, and student living assets, she has played a pivotal role in the predevelopment and successful lease-up of an impressive 87,939 units, collectively valued at 9.3 billion dollars. By revitalizing properties to enhance their value and market appeal, JoAnn, through her expertise in asset repositioning, has also transformed numerous properties into thriving assets, maximizing their potential for growth and profitability. During her extensive career, she has collaborated with some of the largest and most renowned multifamily management companies, establishing herself as a respected figure within the industry.
As President of Birchstone Residential, JoAnn aims to continue the legacy of fostering innovation, streamlining operations, and enhancing the resident experience to further solidify the company's reputation for excellence. Her expertise lies in cultivating highly cultured and high-performing teams that consistently deliver exceptional results. With a focus on innovation, growth, and excellence, she is dedicated to steering the company towards continued success in the multifamily management sector. Her vision for Birchstone Residential encompasses leveraging her extensive experience to drive strategic initiatives and ensure the company remains at the forefront of the industry.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, JoAnn finds joy and balance in her roles as a wife to Mikel, a mother to three wonderful children, and a pet owner. Her active involvement in charitable volunteer work highlights her dedication to serving others, giving back to the community, and making a positive impact.
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Keith Hughes
Vice President of Construction
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Keith Hughes
Vice President of Construction
As the Vice President of Construction for Birchstone Residential, Keith Hughes simultaneously manages the day-to-day field operations on multiple multimillion dollar construction projects. He is responsible for all components of the construction process, from assisting on acquisitions and blueprint designs to budgeting and scheduling construction plans.
With an impressive 25 years of industry experience, Keith possesses a tremendous amount of credibility established through transparency, accountability and impeccable dedication. An invaluable asset to the Birchstone team, he presents a superior client service that delivers consistent and measurable results.
Prior to joining Birchstone, Keith served as Regional Construction Manager for BH Management, where he spearheaded over $60 million in capital projects, including acquisitions, value add, insurance and non-recurring capital expenditures spanning a 12-state region.
When he’s not working, Keith enjoys family, friends and golf. He helps his daughters raise show pigs for livestock competitions and is an avid supporter of their competition cheer teams. Golf serves as his primary social outlet to catch up with friends.
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April Royal
Vice President of Property Management
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April Royal
Vice President of Property Management
April has over 25 years of experience in the real estate industry providing her expertise over a wide range of portfolios, including new construction, value add projects, and specialized segments like student and senior housing.
As Vice President of Property Management, April will oversee the operations, financial performance, and strategic growth of all communities, aiming to elevate the quality, value, and profitability of Birchstone Residential’s assets.
Prior to joining Birchstone, she was the Vice President of Operations for a nationally recognized multifamily industry leader, where she managed an extensive portfolio of assets across multiple states. Her leadership and strategic insight were instrumental in the success of a nationwide portfolio.
Beyond her professional commitments, April’s influence extends to her involvement in various associations. Currently sitting on the Board of Directors with AATC, her dedication and contribution to the association demonstrates her commitment to advancing multifamily industry standards.
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Maria Startsev
Vice President of Accounting and Finance
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Maria Startsev
Vice President of Accounting and Finance
As a certified public accountant, Maria Startsev serves as the Vice President of Accounting and Finance for Birchstone. She is responsible for ensuring the accurate presentation of financial information by managing the month-end process for the entire multifamily portfolio. She also works extensively with property management and leadership to conduct research and explain budget-to-actual variance analyses.
Maria holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is driven by opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Before crunching numbers, being a mom is her No. 1 joy, while living life to the fullest with an appreciation for exercise, travel and exploring new adventures.
Favorite quote:
“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” — Theodore Roosevelt
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Melanie Stiles
Vice President of Business Operations
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Melanie Stiles
Vice President of Business Operations
As Vice President of Business Operations, Melanie Stiles oversees Birchstone’s integrated communication, systems, sales, and process optimizations. A perceptive and pioneering senior executive committed to building relationships through operational strategy, empathic leadership, and paradigm shifts.
Over the course of her 30-year multifamily career, she has successfully provided business operations expertise and leadership for companies publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange, as well as for private companies. Melanie has extensive experience in team leadership, process development, advertising, communications, and operations. She has also played a vital role in integrating companies after numerous mergers and acquisitions.
Before joining Birchstone, Melanie served as Vice President of Marketing for a nationally recognized multifamily industry leader, where she developed and carried out the company’s communication and integrated marketing strategies for more than 90,000 apartment homes across the U.S. Prior to that, led the company’s corporate and real estate marketing initiatives. At the time, the company was the largest REIT listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Outside of her professional career, Melanie appreciates creative outlets like photography and interior design.
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Nicole Zdeb
Vice President of People Support
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Nicole Zdeb
Vice President of People Support
Nicole Zdeb comes to Birchstone as a dedicated, creative, and adaptable human resources leader with core strengths in employee relations management and development, strategic planning, recruiting, and more. In her role as Vice President of People Support, Nicole focuses on opportunities to enrich and support her valued associates; listens for creative opportunities to blend their needs and business demands; and aligns policies, practices, and procedures that support company values.
After serving nearly 25 years in the human resources field within various sectors of hospitality, retail, in-home healthcare, and property/casualty insurance, Nicole brings a plethora of expertise and award-winning success to Birchstone, including the Manager of the Year award for the Marriott Bridges to Work Foundation. She graduated from Roosevelt University with a bachelor’s in business administration and received an associate degree in hotel management from Triton College.
Nicole is a member of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) and Dallas SHRM, as well as a volunteer for KaBoom! — a nonprofit that creates play spaces for children. In her free time, she loves to read, cook, play softball, and find a good adventure, whether that’s kayaking into sea caves, jumping off a cliff into the Mediterranean Sea and Pacific Ocean, or visiting Pompeii.
Favorite quote:
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” — Michael Jordan
Birchstone Corporate Team
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Derek Adams
Director of Information Technology
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Derek Adams
Director of Information Technology
A collaborative executive with a proven track record of building high-performing IT teams, Derek Adams helps optimize Birchstone’s financial performance and ROI by delivering innovative technology solutions that meet the company’s business needs. He positions his department for success through extensive staff mentoring, training and focused performance management. His areas of expertise include IT strategy and transformation, cloud network infrastructure, solution development and implementation, cybersecurity and change management.
Prior to joining Birchstone, Derek served as Director of Information Technology at RPM Expedite USA, a specialty logistics company. There, he led the strategic development and modernization of the company’s IT systems and oversaw its day-to-day IT operations, security and vendor management. His career also includes a 10-year stint as Director of Information Technology at Omni Logistics, a global third-party logistics company in Coppell, Texas.
He has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas Tech University and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Devry University. Derek also has earned the Agile Certified Practitioner designation from the Project Management Institute. He is currently pursuing the Certified Information Systems Auditor designation from the Information Systems Audit and Control Association.
Derek is a veteran of both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corp.
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Lance Birdsong
Director of Talent Acquisitions
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Lance Birdsong
Director of Talent Acquisitions
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Austin Jones
Regional Construction Director
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Regional Construction Director
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Savannah King
Director of Systems
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Savannah King
Director of Systems
With over 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry, Savannah King is a seasoned professional known for her expertise in systems management and comprehensive support solutions. As Director of Systems, Savannah has continually demonstrated an exceptional ability for optimizing operational efficiencies, enhancing resident experiences, and driving organizational growth. Leading initiatives for pioneering system implementations that have significantly enhanced operational processes, reduced costs, and elevated overall customer satisfaction.
Throughout her career, Savannah has gained a unique blend of technical expertise and industry-specific experience, leveraging technology to streamline procedures and elevate the standards of operations. Her strategic approach and meticulous attention to detail have been instrumental in developing a cohesive support team that fosters innovation and a process centric culture throughout Birchstone Residential.
Beyond her exceptional dedication to her professional career, Savannah enjoys spending the weekends with her kids and family.
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Abraham Munoz
Director of Brand & Creative Services
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Abraham Munoz
Director of Brand & Creative Services
Abraham Munoz is an accomplished design and marketing professional with 10 years’ experience in the multifamily industry. As the Director of Brand and Creative Services for Birchstone Residential, Abraham is an instrumental leader in defining and elevating the company's brand presence and creative direction. His unwavering commitment to excellence and understanding of brand strategies positions him as a pivotal factor in driving Birchstone Residential’s growth and influence within the industry.
Leveraging a wealth of expertise, Abraham oversees the company’s brand management, development, and reputation strategies with a keen eye for innovation and market trends.
Integrating comprehensive social media campaigns, PR initiatives, brand designs, and photography to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with Birchstone’s prospects, residents, and employees. All while fostering a vibrant company culture and leading Birchstone’s volunteer programs that promote the company's core values.
Abraham finds inspiration in exploring the world through travel, taking every opportunity to uncover new cultures and landscapes. Channeling his creativity into various artistic pursuits, from painting to music, finding joy in the endless forms of creative expression outside the confines of work.
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Nick Orton
Director of Facilities
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Director of Facilities
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Cody Osterman
Sales & Marketing Director
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Cody Osterman
Sales & Marketing Director
With over 13 years of experience in the multifamily industry, Cody Osterman is a dynamic professional spearheading the sales and marketing team at Birchstone Residential. As the Director of Sales and Marketing, Cody is committed to streamlining the leasing process, developing a top-tier sales team, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive unparalleled growth and success.
Cody’s exceptional talent in implementing innovative marketing initiatives and impactful campaigns have consistently proven to drive increased results throughout his career. With a goal to elevate the company's market presence as well as streamlining the leasing process to guarantee a flawless and efficient experience for prospects.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Cody has a passion for volunteering his time to important causes like the DFW Pug Rescue organization.
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Tomeka Smith
People Support Business Partner
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Tomeka Smith
People Support Business Partner
Tomeka Smith comes to Birchstone with extensive experience in human resources and business management. Armed with a problem-solving approach that puts people first, Tomeka develops long-lasting solutions and relationships that balance our clients’ interests with the needs of the company. She plays a vital role in the development and implementation of strategies that attract and retain quality associates. She also works to ensure that all of our clients' needs are met in a way that hopefully exceeds their expectations.
Prior to joining the Birchstone team, Tomeka served as the HR Business Partner for Addus Homecare, a leading provider of comprehensive home care and support services. She worked with regional offices to support business objectives and communication regarding HR initiatives. In 2019, Tomeka was recognized as an Addus Elite, which honors employees who exemplify the company’s values.
Tomeka also has served as the HR Coordinator and Account Manager for Risk Management and as a Benefits Manager for CVS Health.
Birchstone Regional Team
Carolina Jabara
Regional Vice President
Carolina Jabara
People Support Business Partner
Carolina Jabara joined Birchstone in 2023 as Regional Vice President. She oversees a diverse portfolio of properties throughout the Atlanta area. With more than 25 years of multifamily experience, Carolina has directed operations on a wide range of multifamily assets, including garden-style, mixed-use, student housing, mid-rise and high-rise properties. She has worked for private companies, institutional clients and REITs. Her experience runs the full spectrum of property management, including renovations/repositions, acquisitions and new developments/lease ups.
Carolina's unwavering passion lies in training, developing, and motivating teams. She is a dedicated leader who strives to stay on the cutting edge of team dynamics and leadership.
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Noelle Bui
Regional Manager
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Noelle Bui
Regional Manager
Noelle Bui is inspired by the simple notion that bringing happiness to others in authentic ways makes all the difference. As a Regional Manager, this extends to every interaction she has with residents and co-workers, whether it’s creating lifestyle enhancement opportunities at her communities that generate a greater sense of purpose or sharing ideas with teammates to help them surpass goals.
Noelle’s 20-year-plus years of success in property management throughout Texas and beyond has garnered significant recognitions, including being awarded Property Manager of the Year and several Best of the Best Awards, as well as being honored as Community Volunteer Chairperson. In addition, she also is a certified apartment manager through the Texas Apartment Association and serves as an outreach volunteer for JDRF.
When not at work, but still inspiring others to be their best, Noelle savors time with her family and friends. She likes to travel, attend her children’s sporting events and spend time outdoors.
Favorite quote:
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it does not change you!” — Fred DeVito
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Rose Castillo
Regional Manager
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Rose Castillo
Regional Manager
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Tamaira Daddysman
Regional Manager
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Tamaira Daddysman
Regional Manager
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Carie Grout
Regional Manager
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Carie Grout
Regional Manager
Carie brings more than a decade of onsite property management experience to her role as Regional Manager for Birchstone. She believes in authenticity and loves to find ways to empower her onsite teams where they shine the most. Carie strives to provide residents with the highest level of customer service. She thrives on creating strong personal connections and gets right into the mix to help her teams succeed.
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Ella Romero
Regional Manager
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Ella Romero
Regional Manager
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Ashley Logan
Regional Manager
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Regional Manager
FULL BIO COMING SOON
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Misty Warren
Regional Manager
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Regional Manager
FULL BIO COMING SOON