✔ Identify which budget bootcamp strategies deliver measurable impact — and which fall flat.
✔ Analyze the structural components of an effective budgeting bootcamp.
✔ Recognize red flags that signal a budgeting tactic may be more trendy than effective.
✔ Apply a practical framework to vet new budgeting or amenity initiatives through the lens of real value.
✔ Collaborate more effectively with regional teams or ownership groups.
✔ Evaluate budgeting tactics for long-term performance and operational efficiency.
Tony Sousa
Founder | Sousa Consulting
Tony Sousa is an influential figure in the multifamily housing industry, currently serving as Founder of Sousa Consulting, a branding and operational consulting firm.
Tony’s career trajectory is marked by a diverse array of roles, including experiences as a TV journalist, teacher, and actor, which have collectively enriched his approach to marketing and operations within the real estate sector.
Tony is also recognized for his thought leadership, frequently sharing insights on operations, technology, and culture within the industry. His background in journalism and acting enhances his storytelling abilities, allowing him to effectively engage audiences across various platforms.
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Cynthia Wray
Senior Director of Acquisitions | FPI Management, Inc.
Cynthia Wray is the Senior Director of Acquisitions at FPI Management, where she has dedicated over 34 years to shaping operational excellence and growth strategy across multifamily portfolios. A respected leader in the California rental housing industry, Cynthia currently serves as President of the California Apartment Association (CAA) and has held numerous key roles on the CAA's Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and Legislative Steering Committee. She’s also been a trusted mentor, instructor, and advocate throughout her career — known for her deep knowledge of budgeting, client relations, and team development. Cynthia’s long-standing commitment to elevating property management standards has made her a go-to leader across the industry.
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Chad Gilford
Asset Manager | Gray Capital
Chad Gilford has been a member of the investment real estate community since 2005 where he began his career in on-site operations - first managing institutional-grade multifamily properties across Midwest and Southeast markets before holding corporate capacities with a fully integrated, mixed-use CRE development firm.
Chad has extensive experience in managing capital projects, repositioning assets, performance optimization, commercial leasing, acquisitions diligence, and real estate tax management. He has executed more than $700M in asset sales, managed portfolios in excess of $3B, and practiced in 15+ markets working with diversified equity partners, structures, and asset classes.
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Jason Murray
President | Thrive Communities
Jason brings extensive experience in multifamily operations, asset management, and acquisitions. His career spans over a decade in the industry, beginning at Thrive in 2012 with roles in leasing and regional management leadership. During his tenure at RISE Properties Trust, he held leadership roles in acquisitions and asset management, helping grow the firm’s portfolio to more than 6,000 apartment homes across the Pacific Northwest.
As President of Thrive, Jason is focused on shaping property operations to deliver great results for clients. He is committed to positioning Thrive as a strategic operational partner, bringing an owner’s mindset in a distinct way.
Known for his strategic thinking and commitment to operational excellence, Jason leads with a collaborative, results-driven approach deeply rooted in Thrive’s culture and values. His approach emphasizes leadership development, empowering teams, and diligent execution.