Lakeland Capital expands team, reinforcing vertically integrated approach
May 8, 2025
Lakeland Capital, a Charleston-based private, multifamily investment company active in select East Coast markets, has expanded its team with four key hires: Teddy Zinsner, Andrew Yancey, Brian Allen and Nick Westra, as well as the promotion of Cindy Cleaver. This growth reinforces the firm’s commitment to its vertically integrated investment strategy, which streamlines acquisitions, property management, construction and financial oversight to drive value for investors and the communities it serves.
The new hires bring specialized expertise in investment strategy, financial management and construction, positioning Lakeland Capital for continued growth in high-demand markets.
Teddy Zinsner has joined Lakeland Capital as an associate, supporting acquisitions and investor relations. With a background in commercial real estate and investment banking, including roles at Public Properties and The McLean Group, Zinsner’s expertise will strengthen the firm’s ability to identify and execute strategic investment opportunities. Zinsner holds a bachelor’s degree from Yale University, where he served as multi-year captain of the golf team, and is currently completing an MBA from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business.
Andrew Yancey has joined Lakeland Capital as senior accounting manager, overseeing corporate and investor accounting functions. Previously an investment accountant at Greystar, Yancey brings valuable experience managing joint ventures and financial reporting, further enhancing Lakeland’s operational efficiency and portfolio oversight. Yancey holds a bachelor’s degree from the College of Charleston and earned his master’s degree in accounting from the University of Virgina’s McIntire School of Commerce.
Brian Allen joins as senior construction manager, responsible for overseeing property improvement programs, optimizing maintenance operations and supporting asset management. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with real estate development experience at NORF Companies, in New Orleans, Allen will play a vital role in enhancing asset value and project execution across the firm’s Southeast portfolio. Allen holds a bachelor’s degree in intelligence and security studies from The Military College of South Carolina (The Citadel) and an MBA from Tulane University.
Nick Westra has joined as director of research and media, where he will continue to build out the firm’s in-house research capabilities and media relations strategy. Westra brings deep experience from prior roles in research and investment at leading financial institutions including T. Rowe Price, Invesco and Morgan Stanley. He also served as a staff writer for the South China Morning Post, Hong Kong’s largest English-language newspaper, where he covered capital markets. Westra brings a unique perspective and institutional analytical approach to the firm. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago and an MBA from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business.
Cindy Cleaver has been promoted to director of property management. With more than 25 years of property management experience, she has held various regional property manager roles throughout the Mid-Atlantic and began her career with Harbor Group Management in Norfolk, Va. Cleaver is responsible for Lakeland’s in-house management business along the East Coast. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Mansfield University.
“Our ability to bring specialized talent in-house is a key differentiator for Lakeland Capital,” said Alexander R. Westra, managing partner at Lakeland Capital. “The additions of Teddy, Andrew, Brian and Nick, as well as Cindy’s promotion, reflect our commitment to building a best-in-class team that can execute across all facets of multifamily investment, development and management.”
With a growing presence in high-growth East Coast markets, Lakeland Capital continues to leverage its integrated approach to enhance operational efficiencies across its portfolio and create long-term value for investors.
