MEET THE TEAM

Welcome to TEAM Cranbrook!

Cranbrook Group, Inc. manages nearly 3 million square feet of quality Office, Industrial, and Flex properties in the East Bay and Central Valley. Rooted in conservative management practices and with a strong commitment to be the right "space" and best "place" partner to our more than 400 customers, our team of Cranbrook property professionals are committed to ensuring that our property portfolio holds the distinction of "Right Space. Best Place."

Richard Kulka

Chairman of the Board | Co-Founder

Richard Kulka

Chairman of the Board | Co-Founder

Upon graduating from UC Berkeley’s School of Law, Richard Kulka began his professional career by joining a large mortgage banking firm in San Francisco. There, he gained sound insights into the underwriting basics of commercial real estate. Subsequently, he began his own commercial real estate investment firm, the predecessor of Cranbrook. Mr. Kulka brought together approximately 25 individual investors, with the goal of identifying opportunities to purchase and improve undervalued office and commercial projects in the Bay Area for his investor-partners. These properties, though well-located, required problem-solving to optimize their financial performance, add value, and reach profitability. The continued success of his ventures led to the recognition that Mr. Kulka's acquisition skills would benefit from teaming up with someone who had complementary expertise in property and financial management, as well as investor relations.

In the mid-1980s, a fortuitous introduction connected him with Jim Devenport, a distinguished Modesto-based CPA and businessman possessing a diverse range of talents. This collaboration eventually marked the genesis of Cranbrook Realty Investment Fund, L.P., a venture dedicated to owning and managing a substantial portfolio of commercial properties. Mr. Kulka served as the Company’s Chairman of the Board and CEO until 2001. In 2001, Mr. Devenport assumed the responsibilities of CEO, solidifying a seamless transition in the leadership of Cranbrook. Mr. Kulka continues to serve as Chairman of the Board.

Jim Devenport

Chief Executive Officer | Co-Founder

Jim Devenport

Chief Executive Officer | Co-Founder

After graduating with a B.A. in accounting from California State University, Stanislaus, Jim Devenport commenced his early professional career in public accounting and obtained his California CPA license. His career focus switched to commercial real estate in the early 1980s. In addition to developing an expertise in property management, he gained experience securing property entitlements, overseeing property development, and managing construction projects. This foundational experience seamlessly transitioned into a successful commercial real estate career spanning over 40 years.

In 1991, Jim Devenport co-founded Cranbrook alongside Richard Kulka (Chairman of the Board) and served as the Company’s CFO/COO from 1991 through 2001. In 2001, Mr. Devenport was elected as the CEO of Cranbrook where he still serves in this position and is responsible for guiding the acquisition and disposition of properties, overseeing major building improvement projects, and monitoring the Company’s financial performance. Mr. Devenport takes great pride in the extensive track record of success at Cranbrook.

Aaron Devenport

Chief Operating Officer | Chief Financial Officer

Aaron Devenport

Chief Operating Officer | Chief Financial Officer

Aaron is a seasoned leader and team-builder with a proven track record of driving financial performance and optimizing operations with the goal of delivering sustainable growth for investors. Aaron joined Cranbrook in 2022 as the CFO and soon thereafter assumed the role of COO. In his role at Cranbrook, Aaron oversees all leasing activity, property management, the accounting and finance function, investor relations, and acquisitions & dispositions.

Prior to joining Cranbrook, Aaron began his career at PwC in the Entertainment, Media and Technology industry and became an expert in complex technical accounting issues, including the related SEC reporting requirements. Seeking to broaden his skillset in finance and accounting, Aaron was provided the opportunity to join Activision Blizzard’s corporate finance team. In this role, he led the adoption and application of new accounting standards & policies, developed accounting and valuation models for new & unusual transactions, and collaborated directly with the business unit finance & corporate planning teams to develop and report financial plans to the CFO. However, Aaron’s passion for the film industry ultimately led him to take a position as Executive Director at Sony Pictures Entertainment, where he was quickly promoted to VP/Controller of the Motion Picture Group (MPG). While at Sony, Aaron was responsible for the transformation of MPG’s Global Finance Operations (GFO), overseeing the consolidation of multiple business units and successfully outsourcing the accounting function to a 3rd party service provider in India.

Chris Wight

Director of Brokerage | Senior Property Manager

Chris Wight

Director of Brokerage | Senior Property Manager

DRE #00935049

Chris recently joined Team Cranbrook in 2024 assuming dual roles as the Director of Brokerage and Senior Property Manager. With over 35 years of experience in all disciplines of commercial real estate including Development, Banking, Capital Markets, Brokerage and Asset Management, Chris brings invaluable expertise to our team.

Before joining Cranbrook, Mr. Wight served as a Senior Director in the Capital Markets group at both Cushman & Wakefield and Colliers International in San Francisco. In these roles, he was responsible for structuring large institutional transactions. Additionally, Chris held the position of Senior Vice President in the Wells Fargo Realty Finance Group, based out of their San Francisco Corporate headquarters, where he focused on investment sales and creative financing. He also worked as a “ground-up” developer for Reynolds and Brown Development in the SF Bay Area. Chris began his real estate career at CBRE focused on industrial and retail leasing. Chris earned a B.S. in Finance at San Jose State University and holds a California Broker’s license. In his role, Chris will oversee our Central Valley property portfolio and serve as the Company’s broker of record.

Cody Walton

Director of Facilities & Construction | Senior Property Manager

Cody Walton

Director of Facilities & Construction | Senior Property Manager

Cody joined Team Cranbrook in early 2022, assuming dual roles as the Director of Facilities & Construction and as a Senior Property Manager, leveraging his extensive 15-year experience in the field. In his role at Cranbrook, Cody is responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of all buildings in our property portfolio and leads the management of internal construction projects and tenant improvements. His primary mission is to make design and construction decisions now that will have long term sustainability.

Prior to joining Cranbrook, Cody held the position of Engineering Operations Manager at Sodexo Magic. In his prior role, he oversaw the day-to-day operations of the facilities engineering team and construction/special projects across multiple locations. Cody's dedication to his profession is evident in his successful completion of various safety and regulation certifications, including those from OSHA, NFA, and NERC, showcasing his commitment to excellence in ensuring the safety and compliance of all operations.

Linda Shoemaker

Director of Leasing | Senior Property Manager

Linda Shoemaker

Director of Leasing | Senior Property Manager

DRE #01253655

Linda rejoined Team Cranbrook in early 2022 as the Director of Leasing and Senior Property Manager for our esteemed East Bay property portfolio. Boasting a distinguished career in commercial real estate spanning over 25 years, Linda has contributed over two decades of her extensive expertise to Team Cranbrook. Prior to her return to the Company, Linda held pivotal roles as the General Manager at Barker Pacific Group and as the Vice President of Asset Management at Meridian. In these positions, she demonstrated proficiency across various facets of commercial real estate, including asset acquisitions and dispositions, budgeting and forecasting, tenant relations, and effectively liaising between lenders and partners. Additionally, Linda gained expertise providing comprehensive oversight of leasing activities, brokers, project management, operations and engineering teams.

Linda is recognized for her exceptional mentorship and team-building skills. A testament to her influence in the industry, Linda received one of six invitations from the City of Walnut Creek to review and develop an expedited permitting process. Her efforts led to the successful implementation of this process, marking a significant highlight in her commercial real estate career. In addition to holding a California Real Estate Salesperson license, Linda has earned a Real Property Administrator (RPA) designation and was a former member of Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) in the East Bay, showcasing her commitment to professional development and industry engagement. Linda plans to continue her growth trajectory as she works towards obtaining her California Broker License.

Kathleen Andrade

Director of Property Operations | Senior Property Manager

Kathleen Andrade

Director of Property Operations | Senior Property Manager

DRE #02101355

Kathleen rejoined Team Cranbrook in 2022 as the Director of Property Operations/Senior Property Manager for our Central Valley property portfolio. With over 17 years of dedicated experience at Cranbrook and more than 20 years in commercial real estate/property management, Kathleen brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her prior positions include serving as a Senior Property Manager at Colliers International and Duke Realty. In these roles, she effectively managed day-to-day office operations for a diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial properties, ensuring tenant lease compliance and overseeing contract management.

Kathleen takes pride in her ability to establish and maintain strong, positive relationships with clients, tenants, vendors, and contractors. Her strengths lie in adapting to change, maintaining a positive attitude, and effective time management.

Chris Passanisi

Senior Property Manager

Chris Passanisi

Senior Property Manager

DRE #02101355

Chris has been a valued member of Team Cranbrook since 2018 and currently holds the position of Senior Property Manager overseeing our East Bay property portfolio. Before joining Cranbrook, Chris began his professional career at Grosvenor Properties, LTD, where he advanced to the role of Property Manager. In this capacity, he efficiently oversaw the operations of numerous apartment buildings across California, as well as hotels and warehouse properties.

Chris graduated with a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Sonoma State University, subsequently earning a Master of Business Administration in Finance from California State University, East Bay. Chris holds a California Real Estate Salesperson License and is dedicated to ongoing personal and professional development, having successfully completed multiple Real Property Administrator (RPA) courses at BOMA. Known for his strong work ethic and timely completion of assignments, Chris is dedicated to providing top-notch property management.

Bryce Hardage

Corporate Controller

Bryce Hardage

Corporate Controller

Bryce joined Team Cranbrook in 2023 as the Corporate Controller, following a distinguished professional career spanning over 16 years that commenced at Moss Adams and most recently as the SVP of Accounting at Trinitas Farming, LLC. In his role as Corporate Controller, Bryce is responsible for overseeing the Company’s accounting and tax compliance, streamlining internal controls and accounting processes, as well as supervising the accounting finance team. Bryce brings extensive experience in managing accounting organizations, establishing formalized policies and procedures, and managing internal and external audits, which makes him a valuable addition to Team Cranbrook. Bryce holds a B.A. in Accounting from Humphreys University and obtained his California CPA license.

Elizabeth Rownd

Assistant Controller

Elizabeth Rownd

Assistant Controller

Elizabeth (“Lizzi”) joined Team Cranbrook in 2022 and currently serves as the Assistant Controller, contributing to the oversight of the Company’s accounting and tax compliance. With a background as an Assurance Associate at Grimbleby Coleman and most recently as a Tax Supervisor at Atherton & Associates, LLP, Lizzi gained invaluable experience training and supervising staff, preparing and reviewing various financial/tax reports and conducting technical accounting/tax research. Lizzi holds a B.A. in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting from California State University Stanislaus and earned a California CPA license.

Michelle Jones

Senior Manager of Corporate Accounting

Michelle Jones

Senior Manager of Corporate Accounting

Michelle recently joined Team Cranbrook in early 2024 as a Senior Manager of Corporate Accounting, working closely with the Assistant Controller and Corporate Controller in our Modesto corporate office. Before joining Cranbrook, Michelle spent six years at Trinitas Farming, LLC, beginning her career as an Accounts Payable clerk through her promotion to Accounts Payable manager. During her tenure at Trinitas, Michelle assumed a supervisory role, overseeing the Accounts Payable team, managing system integrations, conducting account reconciliations, and leading monthly close activities. This experience positioned her well for the challenge of diving into the commercial real estate industry with Team Cranbrook, a prospect she eagerly embraces. Michelle graduated from Stanislaus State with a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and is actively pursuing a CPA license.

Andrew Bettencourt

Assistant Property Manager

Andrew Bettencourt

Assistant Property Manager

DRE #02103554

Andrew joined Team Cranbrook in 2019 and currently holds the position of Assistant Property Manager for our Central Valley property portfolio. Before joining Cranbrook, Andrew earned a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Business and Real Estate from Arizona State University. Inspired by his father's extensive career in commercial real estate, Andrew decided to pursue a career in property management. Andrew stands out due to his consistency and commitment to ongoing personal and professional development. He currently holds a California Real Estate Salesperson License and actively seeks opportunities to advance his education in property management.

Stephanie Relampagos

Assistant Property Manager

Stephanie Relampagos

Assistant Property Manager

Stephanie has been a valuable member of Team Cranbrook since 2021 and was recently promoted to Assistant Property Manager, with a focus on overseeing the Company’s property portfolio in the Central Valley. Stephanie embarked on her professional journey in the Medical field, where she earned her Associates Degree in Medical Assisting. Drawing on the skills acquired in the medical field, including effective communication, strong organization skills and meticulous attention to detail, she successfully transitioned to a fulfilling career in commercial real estate which began here at Cranbrook. Stephanie is recognized for her unwavering dedication to continuous professional development and her robust work ethic, both of which contribute significantly to her success in her role.

Jazmine Torres-Carbajal

Assistant Property Manager

Jazmine Torres-Carbajal

Assistant Property Manager

Jazmine joined Team Cranbrook in 2024 as an Assistant Property Manager in our San Ramon property management office. Her professional journey in commercial real estate began after graduating from college, starting as a Tenant Services Coordinator at The Swig Company. She has since held roles as a Property Assistant at TMG Partners and as an Assistant Property Manager at Wareham Development and Hines. During her career, Jazmine has developed essential skills in vendor coordination, tenant relations, warranty tracking, administrative work and contract negotiations. One of Jazmine’s career highlights was successfully meeting a client’s deadline by getting a brand-new life science building off the ground ahead of schedule, allowing for a celebratory-ribbon cutting ceremony attended by the City of Pleasanton.

Jazmine earned an A.D. in English and Language Arts at Butte College and a B.A. in English from the University of California, Berkeley. To further her personal and professional development, Jazmine’s next goal is to become a licensed California Real Estate Salesperson and to obtain a Real Property Administrator (RPA) designation. Jazmine's determination, ability to thrive under pressure, and strong teamwork skills make her a valuable asset to Team Cranbrook.

Catie Jennings

Assistant Property Manager

Catie Jennings

Assistant Property Manager

Catie joined Team Cranbrook in August 2024 as an Assistant Property Manager in our Oakland property management office. Her career in real estate began with valuable experience in leasing and residential property management. Prior to joining Cranbrook, Catie was a Senior Property Manager at Cushman & Wakefield and more recently at Avenue5 Residential, where she was responsible for overseeing all operations for multiple sites including financial packages & reporting, invoice processing, managing teams at multiple locations, onboarding new vendors, and lease management. With over 16 years of real estate experience, Catie brings a wealth of knowledge and unique perspective to our team. To further her professional growth, Catie aims to obtain her California Real Estate License. Catie’s attention to detail, professional discipline and drive set her apart amongst her colleagues.

Angelica Radosavljevic

Tenant Coordinator

Angelica Radosavljevic

Tenant Coordinator

Angelica recently joined Team Cranbrook in 2023 as a Tenant Coordinator in our San Ramon property management office. Although Angelica is new to commercial real estate, her background as an Associate of Operations at Irvine Company has equipped her with the essential skills needed to embark on a new professional journey in this field. In her previous role, Angelica adeptly managed multiple responsibilities, which included managing work orders, creating and coding purchase orders, acting as the primary point of contact for tenants and handling tenant communication notices. Angelica earned her B.A. in Communication Studies from San Francisco State University.

Gabriella Adafre

Tenant Coordinator

Gabriella Adafre

Tenant Coordinator

Gabriella recently joined Team Cranbrook in 2023 as a Tenant Coordinator at Airport Corporate Centre, our Class A office building in Oakland. Prior to joining Team Cranbrook, Gabriella served as an Assistant Property Manager at Montgomery Washington Tower Homeowners Association. In this role, her primary responsibilities included supervising and managing the homeowner’s association in a shared, mixed-use building under the direction of the Board of Directors and Citiscape. Her duties also involved overseeing building service and maintenance, opening work orders, and coordinating with approved vendors and residents.

Gabriella earned an Associate’s Degree of Art and an Associate’s Degree in General Education (Arts & Humanities with an Emphasis in Social and Behavioral Science) from Peralta Community College before transferring to California State East Bay, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Socio-Cultural & Applied Anthropology. Her ability to work effectively under pressure, coupled with her positive attitude and strong interpersonal skills, make her a valuable addition to our team.

Rhonda Stiles

Administrative Assistant | AP Clerk

Rhonda Stiles

Administrative Assistant | AP Clerk

Rhonda joined Team Cranbrook in 2022 as an Administrative Assistant/AP Clerk, playing a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation of our corporate office by closely collaborating with the accounting finance team and leadership team. Rhonda brings a robust work ethic and is dedicated to acquiring the skills necessary to contribute significantly to the overall success of both herself, her colleagues and the Company. Prior to joining Cranbrook, Rhonda dedicated her time to raising seven children, cultivating essential skills in time management, organization, and flexibility which make her a valuable asset to our team.

MEET THE TEAM

Welcome to TEAM Cranbrook!

Richard Kulka

Jim Devenport

Aaron Devenport

Chris Wight

Cody Walton

Linda Shoemaker

Kathleen Andrade

Chris Passanisi

Bryce Hardage

Elizabeth Rownd

Michelle Jones

Andrew Bettencourt

Stephanie Relampagos

Jazmine Torres-Carbajal

Catie Jennings

Angelica Radosavljevic

Gabriella Adafre

Rhonda Stiles

CRANBROOK Group, INc.

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