Valerie Derouen
Johnsburg,IL
Summary
Results-driven Property Management Executive with extensive experience in team leadership, customer service, financial oversight, and budget management. Excel in communication, problem-solving, and strategic planning to drive organizational success. Proven ability to maximize profitability, streamline operations, and lead high-performing teams.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Regional Property Manager
F&F Realty Partners
Lincolnwood, Illinois
11.2011 - Current
- Lead and mentor a team of 14 direct reports and 127 associates across nine apartment communities, resulting in improved employee satisfaction and a decrease in employee turnover.
- Responsible for nine apartment communities totaling 4,470 apartment homes, with over 7,000 residents.
- Manage and oversee the operations, maintenance, and administration of properties.
- Provide guidance and support to on-site personnel regarding best practices in leasing, marketing, customer service, and conflict resolution.
- Spearhead efforts to enhance customer service processes.
- Resolve escalated resident difficulties in a professional, courteous manner.
- Provide excellent service and attention to prospects, residents, and vendors when face-to-face or through phone conversations.
- Manage resident relations for a portfolio of 4,470 apartment homes, implementing proactive communication strategies that increased resident satisfaction and reduced resident complaints.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices designed to protect the interests of owners and investors, while maintaining quality relationships with residents.
- Conduct comprehensive research and data analysis to support strategic planning, and informed decision-making.
- Work successfully with a diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals associated with property operations.
- Maintain updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
- Manage time effectively to ensure tasks are completed on schedule, and deadlines are met.
- Identify challenges, and implement solutions to better streamline operations.
- Analyze performance data from various sources to develop strategies for improving the sales and customer experience.
- Develop and implement marketing plans to increase occupancy rates, exceeding company targets.
- Ensure that all legal requirements pertaining to property management are up to date and followed.
- Manage financial operations for 9 apartment communities with a combined annual budget of $93 million, consistently achieving budget targets and identifying cost-saving opportunities that that reduce property expenses.
- Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve the company's objectives.
- Advise ownership on approaches for resolving complex issues that are impacting operations.
- Design incentive programs that motivate staff members while ensuring profitability targets are met.
- Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Identify opportunities for improving the efficiency of existing programs or processes.
- Research and implement new software operation programs, AI chatbots, reputation management, digital marketing, and revenue management programs to enhance property operations and efficiency.
- Create and implement annual operating budgets for nine apartment communities.
- Develop strategies to improve occupancy, exceed budgeted income, and control expenses.
- Negotiate contracts with vendors for services, products, and supplies.
- Assisted in the acquisition of five apartment communities and the sale of one community, completing all levels of due diligence.
- Conduct regular inspections of properties to ensure marketing paths and maintenance standards are met.
Regional Property Manager
Waterton Residential
Property Manager
AMLI Residential
Property Manager
Aimco
Education
Marketing And International Business
Johnson & Wales University
Providence, RISkills
- Exceptional customer service
- Excellent communication skills
- Team building and leadership
- Hands-on approach
- Staff recruitment, training, and development
- Customer relationship management
- Thrive in complex environments
- Conflict resolution
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Time management
- Project management
- Resident relations
- Performance analysis
- Budget preparation, financial reporting, and analysis
- Data analysis
- Property management expertise
- Operational and marketing strategy
Timeline
Regional Property Manager
F&F Realty Partners
11.2011 - Current
Regional Property Manager
Waterton Residential
Property Manager
AMLI Residential
Property Manager
Aimco
Marketing And International Business
Johnson & Wales University