OUR PEOPLE
Buccini Pollin Group’s success is derived from the expertise of an extensive team of best in class real estate professionals. BPG and its affiliates have nearly 3,500 employees working across acquisitions, development, hotel operations, construction, consulting, management, leasing, marketing, sales, accounting, and dispositions.
Executive Leadership
Christopher F. Buccini
FounderChris Buccini is Founder of Buccini Pollin Group, Inc. (“BPG”) a privately-held, real estate investment, development and management company. BPG develops and acquires hotel, office, residential, retail, and parking properties, and sports and entertainment venues throughout the United States. Chris leads the firm’s investment management platform, Corten Capital, and its commercial management affiliate BPG Real Estate Services, LLC; and is a director of PM Hotel Group, Inc, a hotel management company with over 3,500 rooms under management. In addition, Chris is co-founder and co-owner of Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union.
Chris is the Chairman of the YPO Intercontinental Chapter, a member of the Board of Trustees of Wilmington Friends School; a member of the University of Delaware President’s Leadership Council, the Delaware Business Roundtable, and Hagley Museum and Library Council of Advisors.
Chris received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University.
- Watch Mr. Buccini share his GRIT Talk here. GRIT Talks were started by Bill Dugdale of Alliance Bernstein and feature local leaders answering seven questions over fifteen minutes.
- Listen to Mr. Buccini’s interview with Lee Mikles & Patrick Callahan on Battle Scars: Tales from Entrepreneurs Podcast here
- See Mr. Buccini’s TEDx talk here
- See Mr. Buccini’s interview with Delaware community advocate and entertainment personality Norman Oliver here
Robert E. Buccini
FounderRobert Buccini is Founder of the Buccini Pollin Group, Inc. (“BPG”), a privately-held, real estate investment, development and management company. BPG develops and acquires hotel, office, residential, retail, and parking properties, and sports and entertainment venues throughout the United States.
He is responsible for and leads the company’s residential, commercial, retail, parking, sports and entertainment development activities. Since co-founding the company, Rob has grown the company to over $6 billion in transactions, including ownership of six million square feet of office and retail space, over 10,000 hotel rooms, 3,500 apartments and four live entertainment venues.
Rob is also a Co-Founder and Partner of Corten Real Estate Management LLC where he oversees the Firm’s multifamily investment strategy. In addition, Mr. Buccini is a co-founder and co-owner of Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union.
Prior to founding BPG, Rob was employed by the New York City Economic Development Corporation. Rob received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Cornell University.
David B. Pollin
FounderDave Pollin is the Founder of Buccini Pollin Group, coheadquartered in Washington, DC and Wilmington, DE. He also serves as Chairman of PM Hotel Group, the hotel management affiliate of BPG. Mr. Pollin leads the firms’ hotel acquisition, development and capital markets efforts.
Dave’s current affiliations include: Cornell University School of Hotel Administration’s Dean’s Advisory Board; Vice President of the Economic Club of Washington; Trustee of the Federal City Council; Trustee of The Holton Arms School in Bethesda, Maryland; Canopy by Hilton’s Owner Advisory Council; and Revere Bank’s Washington, DC Advisory Board. In years past, Dave served on Cornell University Council; Starwood Hotels & Resorts North American Owner’s Advisory Council; Owner Advisory Council of Hilton’s Embassy Suites brand; founding board member of Monument Bank of Maryland; Co-Founder and President of the Board of Starlight Children’s Foundation MidAtlantic; and Regional Chair of the Northeast US Region of the Young Presidents Organization. Prior to co-founding Buccini Pollin Group and PM Hotel Group, Dave was a consultant with Laventhol & Horwath and worked in operations with Westin and Sheraton. David Pollin graduated from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration.
Ann Visalli
Chief Operating OfficerAnn Visalli is the Chief Operating Officer of The Buccini/Pollin Group overseeing the financial operations for all BPG entities including budgeting and forecasting, long term financial planning, and strategy. Ms. Visalli is also responsible for supervising Human Resources, Information Technology, Risk Management, Marketing, and in conjunction with Asset Management, Commercial and Residential Operations, and Leasing.
Prior to joining BPG, Ms. Visalli had a successful 22-year career in Delaware state government, which included serving as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget under former Governor Jack Markell. Most recently, she served as the Chief Operating Officer for St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, Delaware. Ms. Visalli has an extensive portfolio of experience that includes strategic budgeting, financial management, facilities and construction oversight, human resources, compensation, health and retirement benefits, risk management, teaching, and building high functioning teams. She has served in numerous committees and volunteer leadership rolls, locally and nationally, throughout her career.
Ann Visalli holds a Master’s Degree and Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from The University of Delaware.
Edouard Cuilhe
Chief Financial OfficerEdouard Cuilhe is the Chief Financial Officer of Buccini Pollin Group. He is responsible for overseeing the finance, accounting, and tax compliance functions of the organization.
Prior to joining BPG Edouard held senior roles in the accounting and finance groups of large publicly traded real estate companies, most recently serving as the Chief Accounting Officer of Seritage Growth Properties where he led overall accounting, corporate finance, and SEC reporting functions. Before joining Seritage, Edouard was the Senior Vice President Controller & Corporate Finance at SL Green Realty Corp where he served in various capacities for more than five years. Prior to SL Green, Edouard was a Senior Manager in the audit practice of Ernst & Young (EY) working with a diverse group of public and private real estate companies.
Edouard holds a B.S. in Accounting from The Pennsylvania State University and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Joshua J. Talley
LegalGeneral CounselJoshua J. Talley is General Counsel for Buccini Pollin Group. He oversees all legal aspects of BPG’s business, including the company’s work with law firms and service providers.
Prior to BPG, Joshua worked as First Vice President – Legal at Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust, the Philadelphia-based owner of shopping malls nationwide. Prior to his work at PREIT, Josh was Vice President and Supervising Counsel with the Pep Boys automotive service chain.
Joshua is a graduate of Brown University and Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law.
CORPORATE
Chip Walters
Asset ManagementExecutive Vice PresidentMr. Walters is the Vice President of Asset Management. He is responsible for overseeing the existing non-hotel portfolio, including six million square feet of office and retail space, 15 major residential communities and multiple entertainment venues, such as Talen Energy Stadium and the 76ers Fieldhouse. Chip will lead BPG’s continued efforts to be the best in class office and multi-family operator and investment manager.
Before joining BPG, Chip was the Chief Investment Officer at Keystone Property Group. At Keystone, he oversaw the firm’s acquisitions, asset management, and portfolio management activities. Chip played a key role in sourcing, underwriting, and closing commercial real estate deals in major markets throughout the United States.
Prior to Keystone, Chip served as the Chief Investment Officer and Head of Portfolio Management for the Americas branch of Grosvenor Fund Management. Chip was responsible for all real estate investment activities for the firm’s US clients, including transactions, portfolio and asset management.
Chips earlier professional career includes 20 years of experience at Prudential Real Estate Investors (PREI), where he was Head of Northeast Transactions and Head of PREI’s Single Client Group, among other asset and portfolio management activities.
Chip holds an M.B.A. from Columbia University and a B.S. in Accounting and Finance from Drexel University.
Priyanka Khushal
AccountingSenior ControllerPriyanka Khushal is the Senior Controller at Buccini Pollin Group. She oversees accounting teams for the company’s Corporate, Commercial, and Residential portfolios. She is committed to achieving financial excellence and cultivates a collaborative atmosphere across various divisions to enhance efficiency in tasks including, but not limited to, cash analysis, budgeting, reforecasting, and financial reporting.
Priyanka is a dedicated Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a career marked by meaningful contributions in various accounting roles. With a three-year tenure at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), she cultivated a strong foundation in auditing and financial analysis. Following this, she joined a newly public REIT based in Washington, DC, where she played a role in the rapidly growing accounting team during a crucial phase of the firm’s expansion.
Priyanka graduated with a B.S in Accounting & Financing from the University of Delaware.
Spencer Young
AccountingDevelopment ControllerSpencer Young is the Development Controller for Buccini Pollin Group. He is responsible for all accounting functions for the projects in development such as new construction builds, renovation projects, and tenant fit outs. He provides budget forecasts, cash analysis, and capital calls for ownership; supervises the monthly development draws or funding requests to lenders and financing institutions; and manages all cash activity within the department.
Spencer works closely with the Finance and Asset Management teams to prepare necessary analyses for the closings of new loans, refinances, and acquisitions. He collaborates with auditors to meet the requirements on external audits such as cost certifications for Historical Tax Credits and the Downtown Development District (DDD) grant rebate program. He also prepares financial reports for internal and external clients in addition to the year-end work papers for the development entities so the tax returns can be filed.
During his time with BPG, Spencer has had a hand in over $450M worth of new financing and acquisitions, led numerous audits resulting in roughly $6M of grant proceeds, and an additional $15M of tax credit funding.
Spencer is a graduate of Neumann University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a minor in Marketing.
Anita Neubauer
Investor RelationsTreasury Management OfficerAnita Neubauer, Treasury Management Officer, began working with The Buccini/Pollin Group in 2005. She supervises a team responsible for all aspects of commercial revenue including billing, accounts receivable, budgeting/forecasting and lease administration.
Since 2014, Anita has also proven to be a valuable resource in acting as the liaison between The Buccini/Pollin Group and their investor community. She has focused on effectively conveying strategy and progress by implementing an investor portal and continually reviews processes to enhance relationships as well as performance.
Anita received her Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations from the University of Delaware.
Emily Holl
Asset ManagementAsset ManagerEmily Holl is an asset Manager for Buccini Pollin Group. Her responsibilities include asset management for the mixed-use and multifamily projects.
Prior to BPG, Emily worked as an associate at Radnor Property Group in Wayne, PA, with a focus on student housing and multifamily project.
Emily received her bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Delaware. She is an active member of CREW Greater Philadelphia.
JR Morgan
Asset ManagementFinancial AnalystJR Morgan is a Financial Analyst at Buccini Pollin Group. He is responsible for overseeing the operations of parking garages, constructing cash flow analyses, maintaining budgets, assessing rollover exposure, underwriting files, and managing debt across the portfolio. His role involves meticulous financial scrutiny and strategic planning to ensure the optimal performance of BPG’s assets.
JR received a bachelor’s degree in business economics with a minor in business analytics from the Darla Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina.
Sarah Lamb
Design, Marketing & Community OutreachSenior Vice PresidentSarah Lamb is the Senior Vice President of Design, Marketing + Community Engagement at Buccini Pollin Group. Her responsibilities cover a wide range of tasks, including project concepting and design direction, marketing planning & creative direction, as well as leading the company’s community engagement efforts in Wilmington, DE. Her work aims to align Buccini Pollin Group’s work holistically through its mission, aesthetics, branding, development goals, and community goals. Her proudest achievement at BPG has been the development of BPG University, which is a 3-week summer internship program for high school juniors and seniors that immerses them in the real estate development process and the career opportunities within it.
Prior to joining BPG in 2010, Sarah was Project Designer for arQitecture in Wilmington, DE where she oversaw the design and construction of notable retail, restaurant and office fit-out projects. Before moving to the Wilmington area, Sarah worked for Mathes Brierre Architects in New Orleans, LA where she was involved in the design a variety of projects from K-12 and higher education, to condominiums and commercial office.
Sarah earned a Masters in Architecture degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA, with a secondary focus in printmaking. She currently serves on the Rodney Square Conservancy Board, the advisory board for the Women’s Business Center, and the board for BPG’s BPG Foundation (dba BPG Cares).
Claire Nester
Design, Marketing & Community OutreachCorporate Marketing DirectorClaire Nester is Corporate Marketing Director at Buccini Pollin Group. She oversees all marketing and communication for the company’s Corporate, Residential, Commercial, Construction, and Food & Beverage brands. Her responsibilities include the development and execution of integrated marketing plans and the management of the company’s internal and external communication strategy. Claire works closely with each departments at BPG to ensure all collateral and messaging align with established brand standards. Since joining BPG in 2017, Claire has assisted in the launch and ongoing marketing of 25+ brands.
Claire received her B.S. in Communications and Public Relations from Boston University.
Samantha Balick
LegalReal Estate CounselSamantha Balick is Real Estate Counsel for Buccini Pollin Group and has represented the company since 1996. She handles all leasing matters for the company’s six million square feet of office and retail space and coordinates with outside counsel in local and regional acquisitions, financings and land development projects.
Prior to joining the company in 2006, Ms. Balick was in the Real Estate Practice Group with the firm Morris James, LLP where her practice focused on residential and commercial real estate transactions involving acquisitions, sales, financing and commercial leasing. Before that, Samantha was an attorney with the City of Wilmington, serving as counsel to the Departments of Real Estate and Housing, Finance and Economic Development. Samantha also served for three years as the Chairperson to the City of Wilmington’s Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Samantha received her undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware and her law degree from the Dickinson School of Law. Samantha is a former judicial law clerk for The Honorable Carl Goldstein of the Superior Court of the State of Delaware.
Joseph G. Lisicky
LegalSenior CounselJoseph G. Lisicky is a member of Buccini Pollin Group’s legal department, currently serving as Senior Counsel. He also oversees the operations of its title insurance affiliate, Diamond State Title LLC. Joseph previously served as the company’s General Counsel from June, 2005 through March, 2023, having represented BPG since its inception in 1993.
Prior to joining the company, Joseph practiced law at Morris James in Wilmington, where he was a partner in the firm’s real estate group representing a broad range of local, regional and national companies and institutions. He previously practiced law at Richards Layton in Wilmington and Morgan Lewis in Philadelphia.
Joseph received his undergraduate degree from Penn State University and a masters degree in land planning and development from the University of Massachusetts. He received his law degree with honors from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law, where he was Managing Editor of the Temple Law Review. Joseph has been recognized by Delaware Today and Chambers USA as one of the top real estate lawyers in Delaware.
Lauren Oliet
Human ResourcesDirectorLauren Oliet is the Director of Human Resources for Buccini Pollin Group. She is responsible for directing and executing all human resources related functions, including overseeing payroll, benefits, compliance, compensation, and employee relations.
Prior to joining BPG, Lauren was the HR Director for a non-profit healthcare organization in Delaware.
Lauren graduated magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University. She then furthered her education with a law degree from Villanova Law School. Lauren is a member of SHRM and has a SHRM-CP certification.
Jeff Reed
Information TechnologyVice PresidentJeff Reed is the Vice President of Information Technology Director for Buccini Pollin Group. Jeff joined BPG in 2016 and provides strategic oversight of the BPG IT Department. Jeff provides leadership for the continued development of an innovative, robust, and secure information technology environment throughout the company.
Prior to joining BPG, Jeff has spent 25 years in the Information Technology space, most recently as the IT Director for the Delaware Department of Justice. Prior to that position, Jeff worked in various IT roles for Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, JPMorgan Chase and the DuPont Hospital for Children.
Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Technology, an Associate’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and is a Delaware Native.
Andy Coupe
Information TechnologySenior IT SpecialistAndy Coupe is a Senior IT Specialist at Buccini Pollin Group. His responsibilities include managing the IT help desk ticket queue, company phones, printers, networks and computers. He also works with building automation systems, access control, and security cameras at various BPG properties.
Before joining BPG, Andy worked in the IT department at Salesianum School in Wilmington.
Andy received a bachelors degree from Wilmington University in Information Systems Management.
Nicole Metcalfe
OperationsExecutive AssistantNicole Metcalfe is the Executive Assistant to Founder and President Rob Buccini and Executive Vice President of Development Mike Hare. She also supports in house General Counsel. Her responsibilities include acting as liaison and point of contact for the executive staff and clients, scheduling, coordinating loan closings, and managing donations and sponsorships.
Prior to BPG, Nicole worked at Fulton Bank of New Jersey for over 10 years directly supporting the President/CEO as well as Senior Lenders.
Jane Preston
OperationsExecutive AssistantJane Preston is the Executive Assistant for Chris Buccini at Buccini Pollin Group.
Prior to BPG, Jane worked at the University of Pennsylvania supporting the Senior Vice President of Facilities and Real Estate (FRES) and supervising 15 administrative coordinators. In her role at UPenn, Jane worked with leadership throughout the campus to schedule meetings, assist with agendas, plan/execute departmental events that include 1,000 employees, interact with multiple vendors/contractors and work alongside all departments within FRES, including trades and housekeeping.
Jane has been in the real estate industry for 17 years working in residential, investment, office brokerage and retail brokerage throughout Miami, New York and Philadelphia. She has supported multiple executives and property owners with hands on projects/presentations, financials, as well as interfacing with clients (internal and external). Jane also assisted with and worked industry related events such as ICSC in Las Vegas, New York and Philadelphia/New Jersey.
Jane holds an MBA in Marketing Management from Wilmington University and a Bachelor’s in Science in Marketing from Delaware State University. She holds her notary license in the State of Pennsylvania, completed her Essentials of Management certification, and is CPR certified through the American Heart Association.
DEVELOPMENT
Michael J. Hare
Development & AcquisitionsExecutive Vice PresidentMichael J. Hare is the Executive Vice President for Development for Buccini Pollin Group. His responsibilities include development management, public investment, government relations, multi-jurisdictional entitlement and external communications.
Prior to joining BPG, Michael served as the Deputy Director of the Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware (RDC), where he helped lead the $1 billion transformation of the Wilmington Riverfront from 1995-2008. Mike was employed by the Delaware Economic Development Office starting in 1989 serving as a Senior Development Specialist prior to being assigned to the RDC by Governor Thomas R. Carper in September, 1995. Michael served on the Wilmington City Council as an At-Large Member where he served on the Finance, Housing, and Licenses and Inspection Committees.
A native of Wilmington, Michael is a graduate of Archmere Academy and received a B.S. in Public Administration from St. Joseph’s University. He also attended Fels Center of Government at the University of Pennsylvania.
Michael serves on the Boards of: Salvation Army Delaware, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, St. Edmond’s Academy; Delaware Technical Community College; the Latin American Community Center. Michael also serves as the Co-Chair of the Saint Patrick’s Day Society which has raised more than $2 million for the Saint Patrick’s Center which provides vital services for the underserved on Wilmington’s east side.
Steve Schroeder
Development & AcquisitionsSenior Vice PresidentSteve Schroeder, SVP of Legal Affairs and Development of Buccini Pollin Group serves as the chief legal officer for the Company’s DC headquarters and the Hospitality division. Steve joined BPG in 2005 and oversees the legal function in support of all hotel transactions, including acquisitions, financings, joint ventures and dispositions, as well as hotel development activities and Pollin/Miller Hospitality Strategies, Inc., BPG’s hotel management affiliate.
Prior to BPG, Steve held several legal and business positions at America Online and AOL/Time Warner, most recently as Vice President of Business Affairs and Development where he led a team that was responsible for structuring and negotiating programming, advertising and e-commerce relationships.
Prior to AOL, Steve represented a wide range of clients in complex commercial real estate transactions, project finance and corporate matters as an Associate in the Washington DC office of Arent Fox PLLC.
Steve holds a B.S. in Finance from the University of Virginia, McIntire School of Commerce and a J.D. from Marshall-Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary. He is a member of the DC and Virginia Bars.
Steve resides in Arlington, Virginia with his wife, Rachael, and their three kids Zachary, Aidan and Zoe. He serves on the Board of Arlington Food Assistance Center, a non-profit serving families and individuals in Arlington that suffer from food insecurity, and coaches in various sports leagues.
Boris Kaplan
Development & AcquisitionsSenior Vice PresidentBoris Kaplan is the Senior Vice President for Development Management for Buccini Pollin Group, focusing on acquisitions, asset management, public investment, government relations, multi-jurisdictional entitlement and external communications. Boris’s development management responsibilities include all Philadelphia mixed-use and Pittsburgh Lower Hill projects.
Boris possesses over 20 years of advisory, business development, and real estate experience. Prior to joining BPG, he was a Vice President for Acquisitions with Paradigm Realty Alliance, a privately-held developer of mixed-use projects across Greater Philadelphia. He also served in a variety of operations and acquisitions roles at Toll Brothers, Inc., where he guided the development of several Pyramid Award-winning residential communities.
Boris holds a B.A. (Magna Cum Laude) from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from MIT’s Sloan School of Management.
Bomani M. Howze
Development & AcquisitionsVice PresidentBomani M. Howze is Vice President of Development and Acquisitions for Buccini Pollin Group. Bomani’s responsibilities include spearheading multifamily, mixed-use residential projects, leasing, government approvals and community reinvestment in the Pittsburgh region.
Bomani also played a key administrative role in the recent commencement of construction for the 26-story FNB Financial Center in Pittsburgh’s Lower Hill District.
Prior to this role, he founded OLMEC Development Company and has helped secure awards of 500+ residential mixed-income units.
Bomani holds a B.S. in Education from Norfolk State University as well as an MBA from Point Park University.
Blaine Skaggs
Development & AcquisitionsVice President of Acquisitions & Capital MarketsBlaine Skaggs is the Vice President of Acquisitions and Capital Markets. Blaine manages BPG’s acquisition, development, capitalization, and sales efforts for non-hotel properties. His responsibilities include underwriting, due diligence and closing of acquisitions and development projects and is involved in asset management of existing investments. Since joining BPG in 2017, Blaine has been involved in transactions totaling over $750 million.
Blaine received his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Vanderbilt University.
Michael Sowers
Development & AcquisitionsAcquisitions and Capital Markets AssociateMichael Sowers is a Acquisitions and Capital Markets Associate for Buccini Pollin Group. His responsibilities include acquisition and recapitalization opportunities as well as underwriting, assisting in the closing and due diligence process, and researching and analyzing market data.
Prior to joining BPG, Michael spent two years at Rubenstein Partners in Philadelphia, where he was an Acquisitions and Asset Management Analyst.
Michael graduated from Princeton University and received his Masters in Management from Duke’s Fuqua School of Business.
HOTEL
Joseph Bojanowski
HotelsPresidentAs President and CEO of PM Hotel Group Joseph is leading the growth and diversification strategy for the company while creating a corporate culture committed to its people-first ethos that celebrates collaboration, creativity, and bottom-line results. At PM Hotel Group he is building a team of talented and driven executives who are establishing a winning legacy. Joseph’s passion for innovation and dedication to supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that the company was founded on remain central to his vision.
In addition to executing PM Hotel Group’s strategic growth and technology innovations, Joseph is responsible for the portfolio’s performance and profitability. A career hotelier with more than 25 years of experience, he loves exploring and has lived all over the globe. He previously was President of the company’s Asia Pacific operations. In 2019 Joseph was named to the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AH&LA) Board of Directors. In 2021 he became President of the Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Advisory Board. In addition, Joseph sits on the Board of Directors for PM Hotel Group, as well as the Homewood Suites Owner’s Advisory Council, the Marriott Full-Service Hotel Rooms Advisory Board and the IHG Crowne Plaza Owners’ Advisory Council.
Passionate about investing in the next generation of industry professionals, Joseph is a coach and active member of the leadership development program for Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration MMH program. An avid runner, Joseph can be found running trails around the world, on the quest for his new PR.
Jim O’Hara
HotelsChief Financial OfficerJim O’Hara is the Chief Financial Officer for PMHS and is responsible for the finance, accounting, tax and IT functions for the company.
He most recently served as CFO for a real estate developer specializing in industrial/flex properties in the Washington D.C. area. His prior background included 8 years in public accounting where he served as CFO for hire with several large national clients, and prepared corporate, partnership, and individual tax returns as well as audits.
Jim is a CPA licensed in Maryland and a member of the AICPA. He holds a degree in accounting from University of Maryland.
Darren Anzelone
HotelsChief Investment OfficerDarren Anzelone is the Chief Investment Officer, and a Principal, of Buccini Pollin Group. Darren joined BPG in June of 2004 and is responsible for overseeing the development, acquisition and financing of new hotel investments throughout the United States, as well as being actively involved in the asset management of existing investments. He has been responsible for oversight of transactions totaling in excess of $2 billion since joining BPG; including the acquisition, development, and redevelopment of twenty-five hotels.
Prior to BPG, Darren was with Fremont Realty Capital, LP, a New York City-based real estate private equity fund, which is an affiliate of Fremont Group – the private investment arm of the Bechtel family. While at Fremont he was involved in the acquisition, financing, development, disposition and asset management of multi-family, hospitality, retail, residential, assisted living and student housing investments.
Prior to joining Fremont, Darren was a Supply Corps Lieutenant in the US Navy and is an original crew member (Plank Owner) of the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN-74).
Darren serves on the Board of the Tewaaraton Foundation (Heisman Trophy of Collegiate Lacrosse), as well as the Board of Bethesda Lacrosse Association, a not-for-profit youth lacrosse organization serving 2,000 boys and girls.
Darren holds a BS degree in Economics from the US Naval Academy, where he was a member of the Navy Lacrosse Team and an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He resides in Potomac, MD with his wife Lisa, and four children.
BPGS CONSTRUCTION
H. Wesley Schwandt
ConstructionPresidentWesley Schwandt is the President of BPGS Construction, a full-service Construction & Development Management company with offices in Wilmington, Delaware and Washington, D.C. The primary function of BPGS is to oversee all construction and development-related activities for Buccini Pollin, Buccini Pollin Real Estate Services, and select third-party clients. Wesley brings his individual focus to each project undertaken, bringing a leadership role throughout the process with ownership, designers, and the end user.
Prior to joining Buccini Pollin Group and founding BPGS Construction in 1998, Wesley spent eight years with an industry-leading full-service CM/GC firm operating throughout the mid-Atlantic region. He held positions as a Senior Estimator and Project Manager before becoming a Vice President and corporate officer.
Wesley received his Bachelor of Science degree from Lehigh University’s School of Business and Economics, with concentrations in law and architecture.
Wesley’s community activities include:
Board of Directors for Preservation Delaware, Inc. (2003 – 2008); the statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of Delaware’s irreplaceable architectural heritage and historical settings.
2006 Co-chair for the United Way Campaign for the State of Delaware.
Board of Directors for the Delaware Preservation Fund (2003 – 2009); a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to providing low-interest loans for historically oriented renovations.
Board of Directors for the Delaware Contractors Association (2007 – present); the states leading construction services organization with direct affiliation to the AGC or Associated General Contractors of America.
Board of Directors for the Delaware Nature Society (2008 – present); a pre-eminent non-profit environmental organization in the state, integrating education as a vital element in preservation, conservation, and advocacy.
John Groth
ConstructionExecutive Vice PresidentJohn Groth is the Executive Vice President of Construction and Development for BPGS Construction. John is responsible for overseeing the active development and construction projects serviced by BPGS Construction. He primarily focuses on commercial and residential development projects including ground-up, rehabilitations and brownfield redevelopments.
Prior to joining Buccini Pollin Group, John was employed by Gilbane Building Company, a national Construction Management Company based in Providence, Rhode Island. During his tenure with Gilbane, he completed multiple mid and high-rise projects in the Mid-Atlantic Region.
John received his Bachelor of Architectural Engineering degree, with an emphasis in Construction Management, from Penn State University.
K. Cole Flickinger
ConstructionSenior Vice PresidentCole Flickinger is the Senior Vice President of BPGS’s Construction Services Division, which offers a full array of pre-construction, cost estimating, design-build, and construction management services. Cole has led projects for the Construction Services Division since its inception over 25 years ago. He has worked to grow the company from a small start-up department to a corporate division that exceeds one-hundred million dollars per year in gross volume.
Cole is heavily involved on the front end of each project. He works with his team and clients to provide preconstruction and estimating services, design strategy, and ultimately negotiate an open-book cost plus fee with GMP or lump sum contract agreement. He takes a detailed approach to fully understand the design, budget, and schedule requirements for each project. He then offers a customized strategy to meet the client’s expectations, and aligns the talents of the project team with the project’s goals.
Cole joined BPGS Construction as its first employee upon graduating from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Cole passed the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers & Surveyors Engineering Fundamentals Examination (“FE/EIT Exam”) and completed FMI’s Leadership Institute, a 36 hour leadership training retreat. He has also successfully completed OSHA’s 30-hour training course in Construction Safety and Health.
Cole currently serves on the Board for The Pilot School – a PK-8 school teaching kids with learning differences; A member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Delaware’s Board of Trustees, and serves on their Property Committee; He also is a longtime member of the Brandywine Chapter of Ducks Unlimited.
BPG|360
Ralph Rossi
Commercial OperationsSenior Vice PresidentRalph Rossi is the Senior Vice President of Operations for Buccini Pollin Group’s Commercial Management company, BPG|360, overseeing all aspects of finance, leasing, construction, tenant relations and facilities management for the company’s six million square foot commercial portfolio.
Ralph brings with him an extensive background in banking, business development, sales, finance and management, having previously worked for JP Morgan Chase and Fidelity Leasing. Ralph received his Bachelor of Science degree from the Wayne Calloway School of Business at Wake Forest University.
He is a member of CIRC and BOMA, currently serves on the boards of Artisans’ Bank and the Riverfront Wilmington Business Improvement District and is a member of the Council of Advisors for ChristianaCare Healthcare System.
Paul Watts
Commercial OperationsVice PresidentPaul Watts is the Vice President of Commercial Operations for Buccini Pollin Group, joining the firm in 2015. An industry veteran, Paul brings over thirty years of real estate leadership, operational management, and mechanical systems expertise to the company. With an extensive background managing the customer experience and property operations, he is a demonstrated leader with proven ability to maximize the operational performance of the commercial office portfolio. He currently oversees the day-to-day operations of BPG|360, the company’s commercial property management platform which includes all tenant services, property management, engineering, and project management within the commercial office portfolio.
Prior to joining Buccini Pollin Group, Paul worked for Brandywine Realty Trust in various roles, as a Property Manager and in multiple engineering capacities providing leadership for their Delaware office and industrial portfolio for over sixteen years.
Paul is a member of the Commercial-Industrial Realty Council (CIRC), the Building Owners & Managers Association of Philadelphia (BOMA) and the Building Owners & Managers Association of Pittsburgh. Paul currently serves as a Director for the New Castle County Board of License, Inspection and Review.
BPG SPORTS
Steve Cavalier
Sports ManagementGeneral ManagerStephen Cavalier is the General Manager for the Chase Fieldhouse and BPG | SPORTS. Stephen is responsible for the strategic vision and execution of The Chase Fieldhouse. Since its inception, Stephen has showcased his remarkable ability to create and oversee cutting-edge sports facilities that enhance both player development and club development.
In addition to his management of the Chase Fieldhouse, Stephen’s leadership extends to youth club sports, where he founded and continues to serve as President of the Sporting Athletic Club. Stephen’s commitment to social impact shines through in his role as the Founder and Executive Director of the Future Soccer Stars Foundation, a non-profit that introduces children to soccer through complimentary programming that uses soccer as a tool to inspire kids to believe and invest in themselves.
Prior to joining Buccini Pollin Group, Stephen held numerous positions in the sports industry including Director of Operations for the University of Delaware Men’s Soccer, Director of Operations for Delaware Football Club, Director of Youth Development for Delaware Rush Soccer Club, and Talent Identification Scout for the Philadelphia Union.
Stephen earned a Bachelors of Arts focused in Interpersonal Communication from the University of Delaware. He also holds a United States Soccer Federation “A” License.
Tony Chow
Sports ManagementSports ControllerTony Chow is the BPG l Sports controller, he is responsible for all accounting functions for the Chase Fieldhouse and sport clubs. He prepares monthly financial reports and cash analysis for our impact on each unit.
Prior to joining BPG l Sports, Tony was the food & beverage multi-unit controller for OVG360. He was also responsible for all accounting functions.
Tony received his bachelor degree of Sport Marketing Management from Holy Family University.
Kevin Rentz
Sports ManagementDirector of MarketingKevin Rentz is the Director of Marketing for BPG|SPORTS. Kevin oversees all marketing, design, and media responsibilities for The Chase Fieldhouse, Sporting Athletic Club, Brotherly Love Lacrosse, Phantoms Lacrosse, Dukes Lacrosse, and Delaware Lacrosse League.
Prior to his start with BPG|SPORTS, Kevin began his marketing career as a founder of Suplex Philadelphia controlling all content and brand collaborations working with the likes of Nike, New Balance, and JD Sports. His most notable collaboration was with Dwyane Wade and Li-Ning to release the Miami Heat star’s “Birthday” sneaker which was only available at Suplex Philadelphia. While maintaining ownership in Suplex, Kevin has also worked in the non-profit sector as the Marketing and Public Relations manager of Faithful Friends Animal Society.
Kevin received his bachelor’s degree from Wilmington University while competing on the Golf team for the Wildcats. Kevin is also an FAA certified commercial drone pilot.
Mike Xarhoulakos
Sports ManagementDirector of OperationsMike Xarhoulakos is the Director of Operations at BPG|SPORTS. Mike is responsible for managing the operations of The Chase Fieldhouse as well as the expansive 76-acre sports complex, Kirkwood Sports. His management extends to overseeing the operations of various youth sports clubs like the Sporting Athletic Club, Brotherly Love Lacrosse Club, Dukes Lacrosse Club, and BPG Nationals.
Prior to BPG, Mike spent over 13 years as a dedicated soccer coach and holds a USSF C Coaching License. In addition, Mike was the former Program Director of Sporting Delaware.
Mike received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Delaware.
RESIDEBPG
Christine Schontube
Residential OperationsSenior Vice PresidentChristine Schontube is Senior Vice President of Residential Operations for ResideBPG. Since Christine joined ResideBPG in 2014, the residential portfolio has doubled. Christine’ responsibilities include overseeing 7 lease-ups, associate staffing and training, leasing strategies, marketing, budgeting, systems integrations and weekly reporting. Christine is responsible for 10 assets including market rate, extended-stay and most recently tax credit communities.
Christine’s passion for real estate began in 2005, working in the mortgage industry. Since then, Christine has worked in commercial construction and residential property management. As Leasing Director for her previous employer, Kamson Communities, Christine increased NOI 4%., by taking occupancy from 88% to 94% within 3 months at a 1,500 unit property.
Christine holds her NALP designation, is a member of the NAA and is active in the DAA. She is currently working on her CPM.
Christine is a volunteer dog handler for the DHA and has also volunteered for the Urban Promise School in Wilmington, DE.
Mike Mazzagatti
Residential OperationsVice PresidentMichael Mazzagatti is the Vice President of Residential Operations for ResideBPG. He joined ResideBPG in 2015 and previously held the title of Director of Facilities. He is responsible for operational oversight, capital projects, and maintenance of all residential properties.
Previously Mike has held a variety of Construction Management, Facilities Management, and Consulting positions for the past 20 years. He has managed numerous commercial and residential construction projects throughout the world including an 80 million dollar consumer banking, general office, and retail portfolio inclusive of 70 locations for a regional financial institution. Mike provided consulting services for a Delaware based financial institution overseeing three separate initiatives involving coordination of hundreds of team members, from 5 countries, thousands of new hires, and a 50 million dollar capital budget.
Mike attended The Pennsylvania State University and completed his studies in 1999.
He contributes his spare time regularly to the Miracle League, Little League of America, and Habitat for Humanity.
Chris Langan
Residential OperationsRegional DirectorChris Langan is the Residential Regional Director for ResideBPG. He is responsible for overseeing leasing for all the ResideBPG communities. This includes maintaining a high occupancy rate throughout the stabilized portfolio, while also ensuring timely and successful lease ups at new properties. Chris assists the leasing consultants with their professional growth, while working with maintenance to guarantee excellent move-ins for our residents.
Chris joined ResideBPG in 2013, beginning as a Leasing Consultant. He has also had experience, as an Assistant Property Manager, Property Manager, and Regional Manager.
Chris attended Drexel University and completed his studies in 2007. In his spare time, Chris coaches Babe Ruth baseball.
Sallie Hendricks
Residential OperationsManagerSallie Hendricks is the Residential Operations Manager for ResideBPG. She provides support for both senior management and onsite associates within ResideBPG and oversees the reporting for the properties and assists with reviewing monthly financial statements. Additionally, Sallie is responsible for new product roll-outs and new hire onboarding/training as well as overseeing our Affordable Housing property in Downtown Wilmington.
Prior to BPG, Sallie worked as a Leasing Consultant and Assistant Property Manager for both private and public real estate companies. She joined ResideBPG in 2014 in her first Property Manager role.
Sallie graduated from Boston University School of Hospitality Administration and is currently on the Downtown Visions and Main Street boards. She is also a Certified Occupancy Specialist.
VIRTUS
Jeffrey Gannett
Commercial LeasingVice President of TransactionsJeffrey Gannett is the Vice President of Transactions for Buccini Pollin Group. Jeff oversees the leasing of commercial and retail properties for the Delaware portfolio. In his 17 years working with BPG, Mr. Gannett has facilitated over $700 million in transactions including leases with Blackrock,AstraZeneca, CITI, Comcast, Wilmington Trust, Nemours Hospital, and Wilmington University.
Prior to joining Buccini Pollin Group, Jeff was an Associate with Binswanger specializing in tenant and landlord representation in the Philadelphia suburban markets.
Jeff received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The Pennsylvania State University. He is a licensed real estate broker in Delaware and a licensed real estate Salesperson in Pennsylvania.
Katherine Vaughan
Commercial LeasingLeasing Associate and Space PlannerKatherine Vaughan is a Leasing Associate and Space Planner for Buccini Pollin Group. Kate provides test fit plans, leasing drawings, and design for commercial projects. She is also responsible for leasing commercial and retail properties for the Delaware portfolio. Kate started at BPG as a design intern while obtaining her Master’s degree in Interior Architecture & Design at Drexel University. She has held previous roles as Design Assistant, Project Designer, and Space Planner during her 9 years with BPG before transitioning to Leasing with the affiliate company Virtus Realty Advisors.
Kate received her Bachelor of Arts degree from The University of Delaware. She is a licensed real estate Salesperson in Delaware.
Food, Beverage, & Entertainment
Devin Ball
Food & Beverage ManagementGeneral Manager of The QueenDevin Ball is the General Manager of The Queen Theater in Wilmington, Delaware. A historically significant theater, The Queen today functions as the preeminent venue for live music and events in Delaware. As GM, Devin leads The Queen’s team in venue operations, marketing, sales, production, accounting, and talent buying in the pursuit of long-term success as a music and event space in an ever-evolving live entertainment industry.
Prior to assuming the GM role with The Queen, Devin worked in live music as Director of Music Hall Operations at House Of Blues – New Orleans. He also served as the Head House Manager in the operations department at Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York, a performing arts theater and studio space named for world-renowned ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov. Additionally, he was a part of the Operations team at Mark Morris Dance Center in Brooklyn, NY, also a performing arts and studio space. Devin is a 12-year Navy veteran, honorably serving as an operations management specialist in logistics and deployment coordination and qualified as a Naval Aircrewman and Aviation Warfare Specialist.
Devin received his AA in Supply Chain Management from Coastline College in Fountain Valley, CA, BS in Operations Management from Southwestern College in Winfield, KS and is currently completing his MA thesis in Arts Administration from the University of New Orleans.
SECURITY
John Snyder
SecurityDirectorJohn Synder is the Director of Security for Buccini Pollin Group. His responsibilities include overseeing all security operations and investigations as well as the physical protection and security of the company’s property and assets, the safety of employees, tenants, residents, and customers. Ensuring the effective operation and maintenance of the company’s security equipment and devices; John responsibilities extend to the recruitment, hiring, and supervision of over 75 guards assigned to various commercial, residential and hotel sites in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Retiring as a Lieutenant from the Wilmington Police Department after 22 years of service, John spent four years as an Assistant Vice President at MBNA/Bank of America before joining BPG in August 2007.
John earned his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from the University of Delaware. He is a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, the American Society for Industrial Security, and is a Security Consultant for Tower Hill School in Wilmington.
JOIN OUR TEAM
At Buccini Pollin Group, we believe we are only as good as the people that work here. We strive to create an environment where each individual associate’s talents and ambitions can thrive.
Visit our Careers page to browse open positions, or take a look at Our People to see what makes BPG a special place to work.