We’re showcasing our Team with Tenure as part of CapGrow’s 20th Anniversary Celebration! It is with pride we feature Tim, who has been with CapGrow for 17 years.
I became a part of the CapGrow team in 2008. At the time, the team was only a duo as I was our Founder’s first hire. Over time we methodically hired more people, but even after so much growth over the last 17 years, there’s never been more than 13 of us at any point. And while it’s impossible to say what CapGrow will look like in the next 20 years, it’s been immensely rewarding to witness my first 17 from the front row.
Today, I spend my days leading the Operations team. Together we are responsible for the acquisition and lease administration of all the assets in our portfolio. This includes coordinating the needs of our partners, communities, and everything else that comes with owning and leasing 1,100+ properties in 41 states.
Q: As the first hire at CapGrow, how do those early years compare to today?
A: In those first couple years, each of us played any role necessary. We were truly a small business just trying to make it. Today we operate as a significantly larger company and the roles each department plays are more clearly defined.
During those early years, we learned the importance of being a good partner. More specifically, I would say our focus on a quality experience combined with the long hours really paid off. If I could run back and talk to us then, I would have given us advice to “stop worrying about what we can’t control.”
Q: Given your experience here, what do you know more about the industry today than when you first became part of CapGrow?
A: Today, real estate transactions feel uncomplicated, although in many states it has become more and more complex with time. Despite these developments, we’ve learned there are more ways to solve transaction issues than we knew years ago and our team applies that experience over and over again.
Q: Do you recall a time working with a provider or partner that felt like a major accomplishment?
A: Easily! There have been a few instances over the years where difficult circumstances cultivated especially strong partner relationships. These strong relationships required time and careful consideration to develop, and we take great pride in those efforts.
Q: How has working nationally been a challenge?
A: I’ve always found joy in working with someone on the other side of the country who I may never meet, but working towards a common goal together–that’s a strong motivator. National work certainly has its challenges and improvements in communication technology have definitely helped us.
Q: What drew you to CapGrow?
A: I had always worked for medium to large sized companies, and I was drawn to a smaller company for the growth potential. I wasn’t sure how I would fit into CapGrow’s mold, but I knew I could be an asset in this highly collaborative environment.
CapGrow’s Team With Tenure
Tim Stephens, EVP of Real Estate & Operations
Tim oversees the day-to-day operations of CapGrow’s existing portfolio assets, new acquisition process and closings, partner lease payments and lease compliance.
17+ Years
Of In-House Real Estate Operations Experience
1100 Properties
Under Tim’s Operational Expertise
