Kimco Realty Corporation

Chad Johnson

In the bustling world of property management, there exists a path less traveled—a journey that begins with dirt under your fingernails and ends with a panoramic view from the corner office. It's the story of working from the bottom up, where each rung of the ladder is a lesson learned, a skill honed, and a perspective gained. 

My humble beginnings started as a landscaper at the local mall. The sun-kissed days were spent tending to lawns, pruning hedges, and coaxing life out of the soil. I learned the rhythm of the seasons—the urgency of spring, the dog days of summer, the crispness of fall, and the quietude of winter. But beyond the greenery, I observed the tenants and customers—their preferences, complaints, and smiles when the roses bloomed. 

Next came the janitorial role. I swept hallways, mopped lobbies, and polished doorknobs. I discovered the nooks and crannies of the buildings—the hidden stains, the flickering lights, and the loose tiles. But more importantly, I connected with the nighttime security guard, who shared stories of late-night encounters and the building's heartbeat after hours. 

Maintenance and the Art of Problem-Solving

As a maintenance person, I became a troubleshooter. Leaky faucets, malfunctioning elevators, and temperamental HVAC systems were their adversaries. I learned to wield a toolbox like a knight wields a sword—each tool a potential solution. But it wasn't just about fixing things; it was about understanding the delicate balance between the tenant's comfort and the property's longevity. 

And then came the security gig. I patrolled dimly lit corridors, checked surveillance cameras, and ensured the safety of the community. I saw the building's vulnerabilities—the blind spots, the faulty locks, and the need for better access control. But I also witnessed the human side—the lonely night shift worker, the worried parent looking for their child, and the elderly customer who appreciated a friendly chat. 

The Rise to Property Manager

 With each role, I absorbed knowledge like a sponge. I studied leases and OEAs during lunch breaks, attended workshops, and asked questions. I talked to the guy on the back of the asphalt truck, asking him the temperature of the asphalt. I questioned the roofers on why they were using a type of fastener. Slowly, I transitioned to bigger tasks—budgeting, lease agreements, and vendor negotiations. The once-dirt-streaked hands now typed emails and drafted reports. I understood the delicate dance between tenant satisfaction and financial viability. 

The Regional Vice President

Today, I sit in the corner office, overlooking a portfolio of properties. I don't just manage buildings; I manage people—the landscapers, janitors, maintenance crew, security personnel and property managers. I remember the smell of freshly cut grass, the echo of a mop hitting the floor, the wrench turning a bolt, and the quiet vigilance of a night security guard. I empathize with the challenges faced by each team member because I have walked in their shoes. 

"Managing from the bottom up isn't just a career trajectory; it's a philosophy. It's about recognizing that every role matters, every person contributes, and every perspective enriches"                      

The Power of Perspective

Managing from the bottom up isn't just a career trajectory; it's a philosophy. It's about recognizing that every role matters, every person contributes, and every perspective enriches. I didn't just see square footage; I saw stories—the single parent who needs a flexible lease, the customer who wants a well-lit sidewalk, and the vendor who is trying to just make ends meet. 

So, to all aspiring property managers, remember this: The journey from landscaper to regional vice president isn't linear; it's a mosaic of experiences. Embrace the dirt, the mop, the wrench, and the security badge. It is your stepping stone to understanding, empathy, and effective leadership. And when you finally sit in that corner office, look out the window, and see the world from the ground up, know that you have earned every view.