🎙️ In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Delis, Senior Director of Build-to-Rent (BTR) Operations, to talk about operational leadership, scaling teams, and building communities that deliver both exceptional resident experiences and strong financial returns.
With over 20 years of experience leading diverse real estate portfolios, Jessica has built a career defined by results — consistently exceeding occupancy targets, optimizing financial performance, and driving innovation in how communities are operated and managed. Her expertise spans strategic planning, marketing, leasing, technology integration, and resident engagement — all while cultivating high-performing teams that deliver at every level.
Before her current role, Jessica served as Director of Operations at Cardinal Group, where she oversaw a portfolio of student and BTR assets across the U.S., driving revenue growth and resident satisfaction. She also spearheaded a company-wide employee engagement initiative that resulted in an industry-leading 98% engagement score, a testament to her leadership style and commitment to building strong workplace culture.
What makes this conversation special is Jessica’s candid perspective on what it truly takes to succeed in the BTR space — from evolving resident expectations and technology-driven operations to the importance of client partnerships and team development.
In this episode, we dive into:
(1) The operational strategies that consistently exceed financial and performance targets
(2) How to build and lead teams that deliver exceptional resident experiences
(3) Why employee engagement and culture are just as important as revenue and ROI
(4) The future of BTR and how operators can stay ahead of shifting market dynamics
Jessica’s story is one of leadership, innovation, and impact — a must-listen for anyone interested in property operations, BTR strategy, or the evolving landscape of residential real estate.
🟢 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.