Melanie French is a seasoned multifamily executive with more than 30 years of leadership
experience spanning property operations, strategic planning, human capital, organizational
development, and financial execution across all asset types.

As the first Chief Executive Officer of RR Living, Melanie oversees all operational functions
with a clear focus on helping owners successfully achieve their business plans. She
believes sustainable growth begins with attracting, developing, and empowering top talent
— creating communities where more than 50,000 residents truly feel at home.
Throughout her career, Melanie has held executive leadership roles at industry-leading
firms including Cortland, AIMCO, and DLP Capital. She has led platforms exceeding 50,000
units, overseen more than $200M in renovations, and supported over 200,000 apartment
homes nationwide.

Melanie is an active member of the Forbes® Council, serves on the Multifamily Innovation®
Council, and is the Treasurer of the National Board of Entryway, reflecting her commitment
to workforce development and inclusive housing solutions. A sought-after keynote speaker,
she regularly presents at major industry events including the Multifamily Women® Summit,
Smart Spaces Conference, IMN, MFE, NMHC, NAA, and Bisnow®.

She holds the IREM® CPM, SPHR, and DDI® Master Trainer & Facilitator certifications.
Known for her gritty yet approachable leadership style, Melanie is passionate about
mentoring future leaders and building high-performing teams.

Her career began as a leasing consultant — where Melanie discovered her lifelong passion
for turning apartments into long-term homes. Outside of work, Melanie enjoys reading,
boating, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren alongside her husband, with
whom she is about to celebrate 40 years of marriage