Smith has served in various roles for the past ten years at Tailwind Group, starting as a Leasing Agent in 2014. In his most recent role as Vice President of Operations and Development, he has successfully pioneered the growth and development of Tailwind Group’s student housing portfolio, which now contains nearly 17,000 bedrooms across 36 unique properties. He has also played a crucial role in the organization’s acquisition strategy, with an intent focus on value-added renovations. “Brandon is the best person to lead the next phase of Tailwind Group’s growth and transformation. He has demonstrated excellent leadership, vision, and an innovative mindset ideal for propelling Tailwind Group forward”, said Michael Sather, one of Tailwind Group’s founders and Managing Principals.

“I am beyond excited and honored to serve in this new role,” said Smith. “I have countless people to thank for trusting and believing in me. I especially want to recognize the founders of Tailwind Group and Lane for investing so much in me over the years; I certainly would not have had this opportunity without them. I also must thank the hundreds of Tailwind Group team members who work so hard daily to make all this possible.”

Lane Gravley has served as Tailwind Group’s President for the past four years and has overseen tremendous growth, the formation of the company structure, and the implementation of leadership principles. Upon the successful transition of responsibilities as President to Smith, Gravley will transition full-time into the newly created role of Chief People Officer.

“I have learned so much from Lane over the past years,” said Smith. “His passion for people and their personal and professional development is unrivaled, so we are extremely excited to see him take on and embrace this new role. I hope all our team members see this as a major commitment to ensure that even as our company grows, we will never let it be at the expense of our people and culture.”