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The real estate technology sector is witnessing a significant leadership change as RealPage, a leading global provider of AI-enabled software for the property management industry, has announced the appointment of Dirk Wakeham as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Wakeham, a seasoned executive with a long history in SaaS and PropTech, also joins the company's Board of Directors.
RealPage has appointed Dirk Wakeham as its new President and CEO.
Wakeham is a six-time CEO with extensive SaaS, PropTech, and FinTech experience.
He is a former RealPage President, returning to the company after founding LeasingDesk.
The leadership change is effective immediately, with Wakeham joining the Board of Directors.
He succeeds Dana Jones, who is credited with strengthening the company's financial and operational foundations.
The move signals a new chapter focused on growth and innovation in AI-powered real estate.
Dirk Wakeham's appointment marks a return to RealPage, where he previously served as President following the company's acquisition of LeasingDesk, the firm he founded. His extensive background includes roles as Managing Director for Vista Equity Partners and leadership positions at several software organizations, including Zego, Kibo, and Lanyon.
“Returning to RealPage feels like coming home,” said newly appointed Dirk Wakeham, President and Chief Executive Officer, RealPage. “I’m honored to step into this role at such an important moment for the company and our industry. RealPage’s success has always been rooted in partnership and trust. Together, with our customers, we’ll continue creating vibrant communities that deliver great living experiences and help residents achieve financial wellness and lasting success.”
Wakeham succeeds Dana Jones, who served as CEO since 2021. The Board of Directors acknowledged Jones for her contributions, which included sharpening operational discipline, strengthening financial foundations, and accelerating the company's innovation in AI and resident experience during a period of significant transformation.
Charles Goodman, Chairman of the Board of Directors, RealPage, said, “On behalf of the RealPage Board of Directors, we want to thank Dana for her tremendous contributions at RealPage. She has been a trusted leader through a period of significant transformation and growth. We wish her every success in her next chapter.”
The Board expressed strong confidence in Wakeham's ability to lead RealPage into its next phase. His deep industry knowledge and proven track record in driving scale and innovation are seen as key assets for reinforcing the company's market position.
Goodman adds, “We welcome Dirk Wakeham back to RealPage. He brings deep industry roots, proven technological leadership, and a long track record of driving scale, innovation, and value creation. I’m confident that Dirk will propel RealPage’s growth and reinforce its position as the technology partner of choice for the real estate industry.”
This leadership transition underscores RealPage's commitment to maintaining its edge in the competitive PropTech landscape by leveraging experienced leadership to guide its future strategy and AI-powered platform evolution.
About RealPage, Inc.
RealPage improves the business of living for both housing providers and residents. As the leading platform for AI-powered real estate operations, we connect property owners, operators, and residents across every stage of the rental journey - creating smarter, more transparent, and more responsive experiences. Our technology unifies marketing, leasing, operations, and financials for over 24 million rental units worldwide, putting AI at the center of real estate. From automating work and turning data into actionable insights to introducing the industry’s first agentic AI workforce, we empower property teams to deliver exceptional living experiences. Through our resident experience platform, LOFT, and an integrated suite of services, RealPage helps millions of residents lease, live, and engage in their communities with greater flexibility and convenience. Backed by Thoma Bravo and recognized by Forbes, Newsweek, and EnergyStar for innovation, sustainability, and workplace culture, RealPage is headquartered in Richardson, Texas, with offices across North America, Europe, and Asia.
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