Name
Darrin James
Where are you based?
Los Angeles, Malibu, and Newport Beach.
Job Title
Senior Area Manager
How long have you worked at AvantStay?
7 months
How would you describe your job & responsibilities to someone who doesn’t work in your field?
I supervise operations and employees for the LA/Malibu and Newport Beach markets. My teams are responsible for cleaning, inspecting and maintaining the great homes in our portfolio, and I work as a liaison between homeowners and Owner Support team members.
I handle all employee scheduling and product ordering for my markets, as well as organizing home assignments for team members.
I also work with our marketing team to create monthly newsletters for our homeowners. I regularly meet with prospective homeowners to determine if their home is a good fit for AvantStay, and I work with the sales and onboarding teams to get homes live for guests rentals.
How do you like to start your work day?
I start with Slack, Spokephone and emails, before I jump into SalesForce for in-stay guest issues and inspection scheduling. Then I have my morning meetings with the LA/Malibu team and the Newport Beach teams.
What teams do you collaborate the most with at work?
Guest Experience and Owner Support
What is your favorite thing about working at AvantStay?
The people I work with!
What advice would you give to someone looking to join your team?
Be ready to work hard and to make memories that will last our guests a lifetime.
What is something that you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your role?
Building the LA/Malibu and Newport Beach markets and teams. We’ve expanded both markets significantly, and we have brought on great people who work very well together. Teamwork!
Which AvantStay home is your favorite?
Hollywood Overlook in Los Angeles. It’s an incredible home overlooking all of LA with an amazing design, including a pool and spa.
Give us a fun fact!
I make great blueberry muffins.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Go paddleboarding with my daughter.
Before working at AvantStay, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
Filmmaker
What is your favorite AvantStay memory?
Rewarding team members for their hard work with bonuses and raises.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
When someone shows you who they are, believe them.
What’s your favorite Slack channel?
#PetsOfAvantStay: Everyone shares photos of their pets here! This is my dog, Lily.
What’s your favorite AvantStay employee perk?
The cellphone and gym allowance we get.
What has working at AvantStay taught you about the most?
The value of constantly improving technology in our industry.
Where is your favorite vacation spot?
Anywhere in Europe! This is at the Vltava River in Prague.
