In this episode of Peak Property Performance, Bill Douglas speaks with Chad Stafford, President of Occidental Management, about operating one of the largest corporate campuses in the United States. Hosted by OpticWise, the conversation explores how digital infrastructure, data visibility, and operational intelligence are helping commercial real estate owners modernize assets, improve tenant experience, and create long-term value.

• Commercial real estate operations

• Digital infrastructure ownership

• Building automation systems

• Tenant experience and retention

• Operational intelligence

• Data-driven asset management

• Campus modernization strategies

• Commercial property technology

• Infrastructure investment

• Smart building operations

Bill: What makes Esperia different from a typical office property?

Chad: It's essentially a small city. We operate nearly 4 million square feet across 200 acres with office buildings, parking structures, fitness facilities, utilities, and extensive infrastructure. Managing a campus at that scale requires visibility into everything happening across the property.

Chad: One of the biggest discoveries after acquiring the campus was realizing the value of the existing fiber infrastructure. Instead of treating connectivity as a tenant responsibility, we built a model where digital infrastructure became part of the property's service offering.

Bill: How important is operational visibility?

Chad: It's critical. Our building systems monitor tens of thousands of data points, allowing us to identify maintenance issues before they become major problems. That proactive approach improves reliability, reduces costs, and enhances the tenant experience.

Chad: Large campuses require long-term planning. Whether it's replacing infrastructure, upgrading technology, or improving building systems, having accurate operational data helps us make smarter capital decisions while minimizing disruption to tenants.

Chad: Technology isn't just an expense anymore. Digital infrastructure can generate revenue, support leasing efforts, improve retention, and create efficiencies throughout the property. It's become a core component of asset performance.

Chad: The future is about flexibility, automation, and visibility. Tenants expect seamless technology experiences, while owners need better operational intelligence to manage increasingly complex assets. Data will continue to play a larger role in every aspect of property operations.

Bill: Best career advice?

Chad: If you're going to hoot with the owls, you better soar with the eagles.

Bill: Habit that makes you more effective?

Chad: Keeping a daily written list of priorities and tasks.

Bill: Early bird or night owl?

Chad: Night owl. My most creative thinking tends to happen in the evening.

Chad Stafford

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suman-gidwani-844aba8b/ 

President, Occidental Management

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.occmgmt.com

The Peak Property Performance Podcast is hosted by Bill Douglas and Drew Hall of OpticWise. The show explores how commercial real estate owners and operators improve performance through digital clarity, data discipline, and better decision-making.

Learn more at:

Peak Property Performance: https://www.peakpropertyperformance.com

OpticWise: https://www.opticwise.com