Meet Your AANC Board of Directors - Charity Ellis

Meet Your Director: Charity Ellis
Vice President of Sales & Operations, BG Multifamily

Charity Ellis is on AANC's Board of Directors, a representative out of the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association. Charity has worked in the industry for a little over 10 years; during this time she has been very involved with her local association, serving on the GCAA Board of Directors for 3 years and currently serving on AANC's Board of Directors. She has sat on and/or chaired various GCAA committees, including Green Committee, Operations Committee, and Membership Committee. She is currently serving as a chair for a newly developed ad hoc committee, Multifamily Career Awareness Campaign, an initiative she is very passionate about. Get to know Charity below!

What does volunteer leader mean to you? 

To me, a volunteer leader means helping others understand the impact they can make with a little effort. The association really propels our industry in government affairs, keeping the industry fresh and competitive, and instilling good habits and insight to elevate the title of "landlord." I believe it is because of the initiatives of our state, local, and national associations that that title is now a respected one.   

What is your proudest work/life moment? 

I honestly don't know where to start. I feel I am a very, very blessed individual. For me, the multifamily industy has truly changed my life! I would have to say my proudest moment was having the guts to walk my (newly created) resume into Copper Mill Village Apartments in High Point, NC in 2007. It was a life-changing move I could have never anticipated. It not only changed my professional life, but because of this industry and the contacts it put in my path, it led to the development of my beautiful family as well. 

What would you say is your biggest challenge?

Staying innovative in a world that is constantly moving! In an ever-changing world trying to stay on top, or rather in front, of trends is an exciting part of what I do in my position... and I LOVE every minute of it!

What advice do you have for others in the industry who are looking to serve in a leadership role?

Be intentional with your volunteering and SAY YES!! Sit in on a committee that you can truly be an asset to, but don't stray away from learning something new. Push yourself to learn more and don't be shy to ask a leader to be your mentor. I have had multiple people come across my path that I respect and look up to. Don't be scared to ask their opinions and advice. Don't turn down an opportunity to grow!

Share something unique about your local market. 

Charlotte is quickly receiving national attention as a rising city. Opportunities are all around in the city and it has really developed in population, innovation as well as culturally over the last few years. I can't think of any place that I would rather call home! 

If your entire life was a movie, what title would you give it?

Leap!

I am a jump-all-in kind of person. I know if I don't know the answer today, I will put all I have into learning the answer. Because I know this about myself I love to try new experiences and rarely do I shy away from an adventure. I try to say yes to as much as possible and I believe that creates a very full life!