With more than two decades of experience in property management, Ashley Grindel joined The BAM Companies in 2024 as Vice President of Property Management. She oversees the company’s regional property directors, marketing, and property operations team, leading the strategic direction and performance of the portfolio. We sat down with Ashley to talk about her career journey, leadership philosophy, and what she enjoys most about being part of The BAM Companies.
How long have you been in property management?
I fell into the Residential Property Management major at Ball State University in 2001! After graduation, I took the standard path of Leasing Consultant, Assistant Property Manager, Property Manager, Regional Property Manager, which led me to my role at The BAM Companies! Twenty-four years later, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Who inspired you to pursue property management?
Dr. Carla Earhart, the former Director of the RPM Program at BSU! At the time, I was an Interior Design major and had to take an “Intro to Family and Consumer Sciences” course to learn about all of the other majors in the FCS (Family and Consumer Sciences) department. I loved the idea of the hands-on experience and connections to industry professionals to ensure job placement post-graduation. I was completely sold and switched my major two weeks into the class!
What’s the best advice you can give to someone who just started their career?
I have two! Just say YES, even if it is something that scares you. You never know where saying “yes” will lead you! And the second is NEVER BURN A BRIDGE. This industry is all about people and connections. You never know who you will run into later on in your career!
What’s your favorite part about working for The BAM Companies?
Hands down, the people. I have never worked for another company whose people truly ARE the core values. It’s such a collaborative environment. We’re all working really hard to break down silos and understand the business beyond just our own roles. Everyone is willing to share ideas, learn from one another, and work together to make the company better, and I think that’s something that really makes this place special.
What makes working for a vertically integrated company unique or special?
I think being an owner-operator instead of a third-party management company is a huge differentiator. Our teams know the communities, understand the residents, and can see how what they do contributes to the bigger picture. It creates a stronger sense of ownership and connection to the business.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from your team members?
Talk less, listen more. This is something that will be a constant work in progress for me!
What’s your favorite memory from your time so far at The BAM Companies?
BAMCON! It’s so cool to see all of our people come together in one place! I think that’s one of the things that really sets BAM apart—we bring together every employee, from our corporate team to our on-site teams, and everyone gets to be part of the experience. I always love seeing the reactions of new employees throughout the event. Every year has the same sense of excitement, but there’s always something new to learn, along with opportunities to connect, celebrate, and have fun together.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Spending time with my husband Karl and 5-year-old Tanner! They are my “why” for everything I do! Traveling, live music/concerts, trying new restaurants, and spa days are all things I love when I get the chance!
What would your perfect weekend look like?
An at-home movie night with the fam, a Costco run, going to Mass, getting in a workout, brunch or dinner out, soccer/swimming lessons, and 10 p.m. bedtimes! Way more fun than it sounds, ha!
