Debbie Phillips is an internationally recognized real estate professional with over 32 years of experience with diverse property types. As an entrepreneur, Debbie has a multi-faceted career including developing world class leadership development programs and talent management strategies. She was recognized in 2019 as a Woman of Influence in Real Estate by Globe Street and was awarded the first Real Estate Award of Excellence as a Certified Property Manager (CPM) in 2015 by the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM). Debbie also received the 2013 Outstanding Educator Award by the National Apartment Association’s Education Institute.

In addition to her private consulting, Debbie serves as Chief Engagement Officer for the Real Estate Career Academy. Aligned with her passion for workforce development, Debbie serves on numerous boards and advisory councils related to economic development, business and industry partnerships and talent retention.

Debbie also holds a Master of Science degree in Housing & Consumer Economics, with an emphasis in Senior Housing, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Consumer Journalism, both from the University of Georgia. Her Master’s research focused on lifestyle satisfaction for seniors and factors related to increasing engagement in shared housing. Continuing her passion on engagement, Debbie completed her Ph.D. from Georgia Tech, where her research focused on Resident Satisfaction and Employee Engagement as she developed an Employee Engagement Model for the Multi-Housing Industry.

Debbie believes in the philosophy, “You can dream, build and create the most beautiful place in the world, but it takes PEOPLE to make the dream a reality.” Debbie’s passion is developing top tier talent that adds value to an organization through increased employee engagement. In addition to teaching and consulting, Debbie is an author and nationally acclaimed speaker.