Brenda James
Compassionate and Dedicated Professional with transferrable skills to serve diverse groups, problem solve, and create measurable outcomes
Boston ,MA
Summary
Dedicated Manager with 10+ years of management experience as a small business owner, realtor, property manager, and community outreach worker. Possesses versatile, transferrable skills to bring a fresh perspective and strong commitment to quality and success.
Proven ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently in fast-paced environments. Recognized for taking proactive approach to identifying and addressing issues, with focus on optimizing processes and supporting team objectives. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Business Manager (realtor, Home Improvement)
Self-employeed
2005 - Current
- Negotiated over 100 contracts for Home Improvement Projects.
- Developed and implemented operational strategies and marketing to enhance business practices.
- Analyzed market trends, supply and demand, to identify opportunities for growth and expansion in services offered.
- Managed projects daily while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
- Hired, trained, and mentored staff on best practices for customer service, and delivering quality service.
- Utilized financial acumen to manage budgets and accounts
- Vetted vendors, negotiated contracts to completion
Community Manager/Property Manager
Caritas Communities
2023 - 2025
- Managed all daily operations for 150 SRO units for chronic homeless individuals receiving services and housing assistance. Managed prospects and increased occupancy above 92%.
- Maintained HUD and Fair Housing Compliance. Conducted property inspections, identifying issues and coordinating repairs to maintain standards for REAC and NSPIRE standardized inspections.
- Conducted client/resident assessments to identify challenges and provide support as well as advocacy for residents.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, housing agencies, programs and partners to create housing stabilization for homeless individuals.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and company policies to promote consistency.
- Increased property occupancy rates by effectively following up on leads, and using interpersonal skills and cultural acuity to effectively communicate with applicants referred by partners.
- Monitored tenant behavior and implemented corrective action to maintain order in assigned properties.
- Coordinated with legal counsel to resolve tenant disputes.
- Established strong relationships with local authorities, partners, agencies, and hospitals, ensuring prompt attention to behavioral issues, and any other violations, for appropriate and timely interventions and/or referrals.
- Implemented comprehensive safety protocols to minimize potential risks and ensure the well-being of all residents within the property.
Senior Property Manager
Fairfield Real Estate
2014 - 2019
- Worked in collaboration with social service agencies to house disenfranchised individuals, and provide case management.
- Improved tenant relations by 100% by interacting with tenants daily and addressing individual concerns.
- Developed and implemented property management strategies to enhance operational efficiency, make improvements, and reduce vacancies.
- Negotiated vendor contracts to optimize service delivery while maintaining budgetary constraints.
- Conducted regular property inspections, identifying maintenance needs and coordinating timely repairs.
Direct Care Counselor
Home for Little Wanderers
2016 - 2018
- Provided compassionate support and guidance to school-age and young adult clients transitioning to independence residential, facing barriers, as well as emotional and behavioral challenges.
- Monitored all activities and interactions to provide timely and accurate feedback to interdisciplinary teams regarding client progress, allowing for informed decision-making in regards to care plans and case management.
- Promoted a positive facility culture by modeling professionalism, empathy, and respect towards both colleagues and clients.
- Supported clients during community outings, helping them develop social skills and independence while ensuring their safety.
- Served as a liaison between clients, their families, and the treatment team, fostering strong communication channels and promoting collaborative care efforts.
- Provided crisis intervention as needed, utilizing de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe environment for all involved parties.
Education
Master of Science - Criminal Justice
Boston University
Boston, MAMaster of Arts - Business Management/ Criminal Justice
University of Massachusetts, Boston
Boston, MASkills
- Community engagement
- Mediation - tenant and eviction laws
- Daily operations management
- Financial reporting
- Technical writing
- Home improvement specialist
- REAC readiness (HUD standards)
- Team leadership - training
- Staffing - hiring, performance reviews, retention, termination
- Emotional intelligence - effective communicator
- Critical thinker to analyze problems and create solutions
- Employee supervision and performance management
Timeline
Owner/Business Manager (realtor, Home Improvement)
Self-employeed
2005 - Current
Community Manager/Property Manager
Caritas Communities
2023 - 2025
Senior Property Manager
Fairfield Real Estate
2014 - 2019
Direct Care Counselor
Home for Little Wanderers
2016 - 2018
Master of Science - Criminal Justice
Boston University
Master of Arts - Business Management/ Criminal Justice
University of Massachusetts, Boston