Our employee spotlight series continues by highlighting April Stidham, whose wide of range of operational, accounting and technological expertise is integral to the J.H. Berry team.
In her official capacity as controller, April draws from nearly 30 years of industry experience to lead J.H. Berry’s Property Management Accounting department. In addition to this role, April serves as the company’s internal information technology expert.
Prior to joining J.H. Berry, April worked in property management in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and obtained her real estate sales license and real state associate broker’s license. April attended Faulkner State Community College and the University of Alabama.
April’s community involvement spans a wide range of activities and interests. She teaches Bible school at Sumiton Church of Christ, where she is an active member. She is currently involved in assisting her aging parents on a daily basis. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, weight training and spending time with her family.
As the controller at J.H. Berry, what are your day-to-day responsibilities, and what do you enjoy most about this position?
I joke and say that my job is the “Chief Problem Solver” but I primarily oversee all of the property management accounting activity: payables, receivables, financial statements, balancing and reconciling. I enjoy that it is fast paced and has constant, unique challenges.
You’ve received both your real estate sales license and your real estate associate broker’s license. How have these licenses helped you in your current role?
In understanding the leasing side of property management and the regulations governing our industry. This has been a big help in my ability to work with our property managers and tenants effectively.
Information technology is such an important aspect of any business today. What do your IT responsibilities at J.H. Berry involve?
All aspects of our technology assets: phones, computers, software and cloud services. It is a lot of troubleshooting and problem solving.
What excites you most about J.H. Berry’s growth trajectory?
The new people that have been added to our team over the last several years. I am excited to see where all of their new input and ideas are going to take us in the next decade.
For our readers who share your interest in the outdoors, what are a few of your favorite Alabama hiking trails?
Guntersville State Park and the Bankhead National Forest. Alabama has so many beautiful and wild places to explore.