JDA Group LLC promoted Robyn Smith to vice president of operations, the Hoboken-based development firm announced Tuesday. The move supports the company’s strategic plan to expand its portfolio of commercial and residential properties through both acquisition and development.
Smith, who began her career in property management with Ironstate Development Co., previously served as property manager of the privately held commercial and residential developer and owner. After Ironstate, she honed her accounting skills while serving as assistant controller with Plaza Enterprises JC LLC, and was the property manager for City Homes and Gardens prior to joining JDA.
JDA CEO Gregory Dell’Aquila said: “As we continue to grow, Robyn’s 20-plus years of real estate development and property management expertise has seen her excel at all aspects of leasing, tenant relations and accounting. Having her oversee our business operations and implementing best practices and standards will provide a solid foundation for our growth trajectory, and allow Robyn to bring the value of a personal touch to our strategic and operational vision.”
In her new role, Smith will oversee JDA’s operations, including the property management company, corporate development, investment-related accounting and human resources. She will work in tandem with JDA Vice President Timothy Connell, who facilitates all aspects of JDA’s development, portfolio management and investment initiatives with an eye towards expansion.
“By advancing my role in our financial operations, I am able to view the business from a broader perspective,” said Smith, a Hoboken native who currently lives in the city. “Being part of a team where everyone pitches in and works together has given me the opportunity to expand my knowledge and build great relationships. JDA Group has created a culture here that makes me feel like I’m part of a family, and I look forward to finding new ways to contribute and to help bring the organization’s core values to life.”
Since joining JDA in 2018, Smith has managed the firm’s properties in Hoboken: Mission 50, an 80,000 square-foot office building and coworking community located at 50 Harrison St.; and the Lexington, a 50-unit luxury residential building. As the point of contact for tenants and the liaison to ownership, she has handled everything from leasing and billing to maintenance and curb appeal.
Smith’s promotion comes at a time of significant activity for JDA, which recently received approval for the Boundary, a 500,000-square-foot vertical mixed-use community on the border of Hoboken and Jersey City. The project will include commercial and medical office space, retail, multifamily units, a parking garage, an elevated park, and more.
