At Suncadia, you step out of urban life and into something that’s all too rare: a place where you know your neighbors instead of just passing them on the way to work. And as visits become longer and more frequent, you get to know the people who help shape Suncadia into a community you hold close to your heart. This column celebrates the Suncadia staff who play a role in the way residents and guests enjoy their time here. Some might be familiar faces or names, and others will be new to you. This week, we chat with Heidi Hansen, Director of Property Management.
How did you end up at Suncadia?
I am originally from Minnesota and spent the last 28 years in the Idaho/Wyoming area. I was actively looking to make a career move and found the Director of Property Management position opening at Suncadia. At the time I had traveled in Washington but had not considered it as a place to call home. After an invitation, I visited Suncadia and interviewed and spent some time enjoying the area. I liked the vibe and really enjoyed the people. I fell in love with the area, the small town feel and have been at Suncadia for just about six months. Wow, that went fast!
Tell us about your position as Property Manager Director. What does it entail?
A lot of everything and anything. Not one day is ever the same nor do I ever complete my “to do” items in a given day. The position is the oversight and care of all properties and owners in our vacation rental program. My team and I are responsible for the growth of the properties under management.
What’s a typical day like for you in your job?
While there is nothing typical about this job, I spent a lot of my time meeting and communicating with owners on anything involving their property. Lots and lots of communication, helping owners with upgrades, meeting with potential new owners. Meeting guests that love the property they are staying in.
What makes this job special?
My team is amazing! The people I get to spend my days with every day are good people. Meeting new owners and watching their dream of owning a Suncadia home come to life is a highlight of my job!
Favorite activity at Suncadia when not working?
Hiking with my dogs.
Favorite Suncadia event or festival?
I haven’t celebrated my favorite event in my short time here but I am going to say Harvest Fest even before the Festival has happened.
What were you doing before you joined the Suncadia team?
I was the Director of Lodging at Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, WY, a ski and biking resort in the Grand Teton mountain range. My responsibilities were the oversight of property management, which included vacation rentals, resort-based lodging, housekeeping, public areas and workforce housing.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
A horse trainer.
If you weren’t in the hospitality industry, what would you be doing?
Owning and managing a guest ranch and horse performance facility in Montana.