Powered by
Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a Director at Apollo Global Management, an alternative asset manager headquartered in New York City, specializing in Real Estate Debt Finance. I graduated from the University of Kansas with a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 2012 and a master’s degree in accounting in 2013, and I am a Certified Public Accountant.
What do you do in your work?
My responsibilities encompass a broad range of activities, including the management and reporting of various Apollo funds that invest in real estate. These funds include SEC-registered vehicles such as Apollo’s non-traded Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”) and Apollo’s public mortgage REIT as well as other private real estate debt funds.
A REIT is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-producing real estate. REITs allow individual investors to earn a share of the income produced through commercial real estate ownership without having to buy, manage, or finance any properties themselves. REITs typically invest in a diverse range of property types, including retail, multifamily, hotels, and warehouses. REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders in the form of dividends, making them an attractive option for income-focused investors.
A significant focus of my role is on conducting comprehensive real estate equity and debt valuations to ensure accurate financial reporting, as well as providing strategic insights and recommendations to support investment decisions and fund management. Valuation is a critical role for REITs because these accurate valuations provide transparency and build investor confidence, which is essential in capital raising, performance management, and regulatory compliance.
What are the qualities of a good leader?
A good leader possesses a deep understanding of their field and effectively guides their team towards shared goals. They chart a clear path from their current position to their desired destination. A good leader is committed to continuous learning and self-improvement, ensuring they remain knowledgeable and adaptable in an ever-changing landscape.
How do you practice leadership at your job?
Leadership is not confined to hierarchical titles or organizational boundaries. It is about influence, passion, and the ability to inspire others.
For instance, I am deeply committed to an educational nonprofit, Virtual Enterprises International, and took the initiative to organize, plan, and execute an investment forum aimed at teaching high school seniors about budgeting, saving, and investing money to empower them financially. I pitched the idea to the Apollo Opportunity Foundation, an initiative aimed to invest in career education and economic empowerment, and they funded the project. This project required me to liaise with individuals outside of my usual workgroup—people with whom I would not typically collaborate. Despite these differences, I was able to lead effectively due to my passion for the cause and my dedication to the project’s success.
What makes a team or group successful?
Defining what success means is fundamental to a team’s success. Clear goals and objectives are essential. When teams have well-defined goals and a shared understanding of what they aim to achieve, it brings clarity and alignment. This focus helps ensure that everyone’s efforts are directed towards the same objectives.
In large organizations, it’s easy for teams to lose sight of their purpose amidst the corporate complexity and jargon. It’s crucial to regularly revisit and clarify goals. Sometimes, the most effective way to ensure your team’s success is to start by asking the simple question: “What does success look like?”
How can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?
Leaders in the accounting and finance industry can help their organizations adapt to change by embracing flexibility and fostering a culture of innovation. While adhering to detailed and specific guidelines is essential, it is equally important to remain adaptable and responsive to evolving circumstances. Creativity plays a crucial role in navigating change effectively.
Want to receive alumni and career stories like this in your inbox? Subscribe to the Water Cooler, a monthly career newsletter for alumni, students and friends. It includes upcoming events, featured mentors, stories about alumni and students, jobs and more.
