PROFILE
Image: Cherry Dao-Ward smiling outdoors at an apartment community, with buildings and landscaping behind her.
I actually got my start in property management by chance. I had worked several retail jobs and developed a strong background in sales and customer service. My neighbor, who was the Assistant Manager at the apartment community where I lived, told me they were hiring a full-time Leasing Consultant and encouraged me to apply. I got the position and quickly realized that my sales experience translated well into leasing. What started as an unexpected opportunity turned into a career I truly love.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that property management is simply about collecting rent and maintaining buildings. It’s actually a people-focused career that requires leadership, communication, financial knowledge, marketing, customer service, and problem-solving. We’re constantly balancing the needs of residents, owners, vendors, and our teams, and no two days are ever the same.
Property management has taught me patience, empathy, resilience, and the importance of listening to others. It has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me become more confident and adaptable. Most importantly, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about how you treat and support the people around you.
I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors who have influenced the way I lead. They’ve taught me that great leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about listening, learning, being accountable, and leading by example. I try to carry those lessons with me every day and encourage the same growth in the people around me.
I would tell myself to trust the process and not be afraid to make mistakes. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. I’d also remind myself to speak up, take chances, and believe in my abilities. Your career is a journey, and sometimes the experiences that challenge you the most are the ones that shape you into the leader you’re meant to become.
If you have an interesting career story and would like to be considered for a future profile, email trends@aamdhq.org
MARKETING
Check out this year's exciting lineup of events and sponsorship opportunities!
Looking to maximize your company’s exposure within the multifamily industry next year? The 2027 AAMD Marketing Guidebook is your all-in-one resource for planning a strategic and impactful presence throughout the year.
This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about sponsorships, advertising opportunities, and key AAMD events happening in 2027. Whether your goal is to increase visibility, support industry initiatives, or connect directly with decision-makers, this guidebook makes it easy to align your investment with the right opportunities.
Image: Angled cover of the “2027 Budget & Planning Guidebook,” branded with the Apartment Association of Metro Denver logo and featuring a QR code and a collage of event and trade-show scenes.