At Bay Management Group, our mission is to provide exceptional property management services while fostering an environment of growth and success for our team members. In this month’s Employee Spotlight, we’re thrilled to introduce Maureen Benavides, Director of Operations for our Austin office. Maureen brings deep operational expertise and strong leadership to our team, driving growth and ensuring the Austin office runs smoothly and efficiently.
Keep reading to learn more about Maureen’s inspiring journey, her strategic role at BMG, and what motivates her every day.
Meet Maureen Benavides, Director of Operations for BMG Austin
Our property management in Austin asked Maureen the following questions, and she gave illuminating answers.
What inspired her to pursue her career path?
“Honestly, my kids,” she said. “They are the reason I push myself every day. I wanted to build a career that not only provided stability for them but one that also shows them what hard work and determination can achieve.” And achieve it, she did.
Journey to BMG and Role Evolution
Maureen initially joined BMG in January 2025 following the acquisition of Stone Oak Property Management, where she served as the General Manager. She was initially drawn to BMG by its strong industry presence and robust support network, seeing it as the right step for both personal and professional growth.
Since joining BMG, her role has evolved from General Manager to Director of Operations. As she explains, “At Stone Oak, I was solely responsible for executing many of the key operational tasks myself. Since joining BMG, my role has evolved into overseeing and directing an excellent team that now handles those responsibilities. It’s been rewarding to shift from doing all the things to leading and developing others who now do them exceptionally well.”
Maureen’s professional journey began somewhat unexpectedly. About 10 years ago, while working for a builder, she obtained her Texas Real Estate License to gain more control over her schedule. Strong in administrative roles, she found her way into property management via an ad for a role requiring a license but no prior experience. That initial role with Larsen Properties (now RentWerx) launched her career.
Prior to Stone Oak, she held a Director of Operations role for a luxury real estate brokerage in Dallas. However, a desire to be closer to family led her to Austin, where she connected with the team at Stone Oak. “Joining Stone Oak (and now BMG) has truly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” she shares.
Maureen holds her Texas Real Estate License and the Texas Residential Leasing Specialist designation, certifications that have strengthened her understanding of the industry and helped her provide better guidance and support in her leadership role.
Understanding the Day to Day and Working for BMG
As Director of Operations, Maureen oversees the daily functions of the Austin office, ensuring smooth processes across all departments. This includes managing operations for the maintenance, leasing, and property management teams, maintaining company standards, and ensuring compliance with Texas regulations. She has been key in guiding “all things Texas” as BMG continues to expand and adapt to the state’s specific rules.
A typical day for Maureen is a mix of strategy and support: reviewing workflows, meeting with team leads, handling escalations, and identifying ways to improve communication and performance.
What aspect of your work gives you the most satisfaction?
What gives me the most satisfaction is seeing my team grow and succeed. Watching individuals gain confidence, develop their skills, and take ownership of their roles reminds me why I love what I do. Even on tough days, knowing that my leadership and support make a difference keeps me motivated to keep pushing forward.
What makes BMG unique?
Based on my time at BMG, I feel what makes us unique is the shared drive for improvement and collaboration. Everyone is invested in building something great, we hold high standards but also support one another along the way. It’s a culture that values growth, teamwork, and accountability, which makes coming to work every day genuinely fulfilling.
Advice and Long-Term Impact
Maureen believes the most important skills for industry success are adaptability, communication, and problem-solving. She emphasizes the need to think critically and stay organized, but also to have empathy for owners, residents, and team members to build trust.
Her long-term goal for the Austin office is Growth. “My goal is to help create lasting structure, growth, and stability within our office… I want to build a foundation where people feel empowered, processes run smoothly, and success is sustainable for years to come.”
Getting to Know Maureen Outside of the Office
When she’s not leading operations, Maureen loves decorating, cooking, and anything creative. She is always up for trying new restaurants or catching a concert, noting that “live music and good food are my happy place.”
Something on her bucket list
Seeing the Northern Lights is at the top of her list. “It’s one of those experiences that reminds you of how much beauty exists beyond the day-to-day. For me, it’s about perspective and appreciating the moments that take your breath away.
Who would you want to meet?
“I’d want to meet my future self,” she says. I think it would be incredible to see how the choices I’m making today shape the person I become, as a leader, a parent, and an individual. It’s not about wanting to know the future, but about gaining perspective and reassurance that the hard work, growth, and lessons along the way all lead somewhere meaningful.”
If you could be known for one thing?
“I’d want to be known for making a difference, for being someone who built something lasting, supported others, and led with integrity.”
Bay Property Management Group is proud to have leaders like Maureen, whose dedication and expertise drive our teams toward excellence and make a genuine difference in the lives of our employees and clients. If you’re interested in learning more about our services or connecting with our incredible team, contact us today!
