RealPage has appointed Dirk Wakeham as its new president and CEO, effective immediately, the Richardson, Texas-based real estate software firm announced Tuesday. In conjunction with the appointment, Wakeham also joined the board of directors.
He succeeds Dana Jones, who has served as RealPage’s President and CEO since 2021. The change came as a surprise to some watchers, Bisnow reported. The firm did not respond to Multifamily Dive’s request for more information about the change.
Wakeham brings extensive leadership experience as a six-time CEO and president for software and SaaS firms, with a focus on proptech and fintech, per the release.
He previously served as managing director for Vista Equity Partners and was president of RealPage until 2013 following its acquisition of LeasingDesk, the company he founded. He also led organizations including Zego, Kibo, Lanyon and storEDGE.
“Returning to RealPage feels like coming home,” said Wakeham in the release. “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.”
Wakeham rejoins the firm at a challenging time, as it continues to fend off lawsuits related to price-fixing allegations with its rent-setting software.
Board of Directors Chair Charles Goodman thanked Jones for her leadership and welcomed Wakeham back.
“He brings deep industry roots, proven technological leadership, and a long track record of driving scale, innovation and value creation,” Goodman said in the release. “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.”
