The partner of choice in affordable housing

WHO WE ARE

Established in 2011 in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, The Clear Blue Company has grown to over $750 million in assets and 4,250 units throughout the Southeast.

CBC's unique, resident-first model transforms affordable housing beyond providing shelter through programming, resources, and community initiatives. Further, we incorporate the resident voice into our process, ensuring we are prioritizing their needs and concerns.

Life at The Clear Blue Company

CBC is made up of six teams that work together to solve the affordable housing crisis: Acquisitions, Asset Management, Construction, Development, Finance, and Administration

WHAT WE VALUE

Giant Gold Star

Giant Gold Star

We celebrate our team members and recognize the hard work of those who assist our team and contribute to our success.

Rent the truck

Rent the truck

Everyone is empowered to be proactive and take ownership in their work – we encourage everyone to use their unique skills, abilities, and judgment to do what they believe is best for the business.

Push to expand

Push to expand

We value personal growth and professional growth, and we encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zones in order to reach their goals - both personally and professionally.

We have difficult conversations quickly

We have difficult conversations quickly

We strive to be open and honest with each other. This means being transparent with peers and leadership, so we can solve problems and move the business forward together.

Life at The Clear Blue Company

THE TEAM

This is the team working every day to solve the affordable housing crisis

Suzette Baston

Staff Accountant
I was a very curious child, I asked a thousand questions and wanted to understand how things worked.

Suzette Baston

Staff Accountant

Suzette is a Staff Accountant at CBC and is responsible for processing vendor invoices, preparing weekly suggested vendor payment schedules, maintaining vendor databases within multiple accounting software platforms, preparing accounts payable scorecards, and assisting with preparation of project closeouts.

With over three decades of expertise, Suzette’s career spans various financial roles, including directing Accounts Payable at HighTouch Business Services, serving as a Plant Controller at Carlex, and managing Accounts Receivable at Boatman Express. 

Beyond her professional pursuits, Suzette’s passion for financial education extends to community involvement, where she offers classes via Zoom and works one-on-one with individuals and families under the mission “No Family Left Behind,” teaching effective money management strategies.

Anna Disser

Construction Finance & Project Manager
I love woodworking and refinishing furniture!

Anna Disser

Construction Finance & Project Manager
With over two decades of diverse experience spanning real estate development, construction management, and financial oversight, Anna is responsible for vendor relations, construction accounting, project due diligence, and procurement at CBC. Throughout her tenure, she has effectively managed complex real estate transactions, secured financing, and successfully closed multiple projects, securing substantial development fees. Her background also includes roles such as Project Coordinator, Construction Manager, and Real Estate Project Manager, highlighting her multifaceted expertise across the real estate industry.
In addition to professional endeavors, she actively contributes to community initiatives, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, Elizabeth Ministries, and serving as the Auction Chair for St. Henry School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a Minor in Spanish from the University of Tennessee, graduating Magna Cum Laude with Honors. Complementing her degree, she pursued accounting courses at Belmont University and through online platforms. She is a proud mom of two rambunctious teen boys.

Dan Ford

Director of Business Development
Proud golfer. Even prouder grandpa

Dan Ford

Director of Business Development

Dan leads business development for the firm. Prior to joining Clear Blue, Dan served as President and Partner of Elmington Property Management. Dan was a founder of EPM in 2013. He also developed company policies, hired senior management personnel, and built the firm’s culture. His experience and knowledge brings invaluable leadership to CBC.

  • Over 30 years in multi- family property management and operations
  • Successfully leased more than 50 properties including market rate and LIHTC
  • Grew Elmington from 700 units to over 35,000 units during his tenure there

Genny Freeman

Corporate Controller
My comfort TV show is Law and Order SVU because Olivia Benson is the universal crush!

Genny Freeman

Corporate Controller
With an extensive 35-year tenure in CPA/CFO roles specializing in financial systems, ERP implementations, and consulting within real estate, development, general contracting, and manufacturing sectors, Genny brings a wealth of expertise to The Clear Blue Company as the Corporate Controller. Her mission is to ensure the financial well-being of the company by establishing and coordinating accounting processes, providing strategic financial direction, and interacting closely with the executive team to deliver performance feedback to each division.
A proud alumnus of Austin Peay State University with a BBA and a CPA since 1994, her dedication has been acknowledged through accolades like the President’s Award at NAA, recognition for delivering an embezzlement audit to the Grand Jury, and ensuring 14 consecutive years without audit adjustments.
Alongside professional pursuits, she actively engages with various community initiatives including Habitat for Humanity, Hands on Nashville, Toys for Tots, and volunteering as the PTO Treasurer, while also serving as a Metro Davidson Mentor at Percy Priest Elementary.

Valecia Horton

Director of Firm Administration
I once had my pilot license.

Valecia Horton

Director of Firm Administration
Val serves as the Director of Firm Administration, ensuring seamless administrative functions and a supportive work environment aligned with the firm’s strategic objectives. Overseeing human resources, culture, investor relations, and other critical areas, she’s the consistent point of contact between the company and its investors, fostering strong relationships and effective communication. Val’s professional journey includes roles at Continuum Planning Partners, Groups360, and Vaco, showcasing her adeptness in operations and executive support.
A graduate of Belmont University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and a Minor in Music Business, Val balances her professional life  with a passion for family and personal interests. A devoted mother to her 13-year-old daughter, she also proudly embraces her love for Disney as a self-proclaimed Disney Adult.

Will Hyche

Construction Superintendent
My first concert was Kenny Chesney.

Will Hyche

Construction Superintendent
With five years of dedicated experience, Will specializes in facilitating smooth operations within construction projects, collecting subcontractors’ data for accurate estimates, and orchestrating contract schedules for seamless coordination between subcontractors and clients. Formerly at Turner Construction, Will honed his skills in creating safe job site environments and fostering effective communication between subcontractors and owners. He attended Auburn University and has a degree in Building Science and Construction.

Michael Mahony

Senior Acquisitions Associate
My hidden talent is I can do accents really well.

Michael Mahony

Senior Acquisitions Associate
Bringing a combined 10 years of expertise in finance and real estate, Michael specializes in sourcing and underwriting investment opportunities, conducting comprehensive economic and market research, and negotiating deals. His background includes roles as an Investment Consultant at Willis Towers Watson where he advised pension plans and an Investment Analyst at PanAgora Asset Management where he fostered diverse skills in asset allocation and analysis.
Michael received a BS in Economics-Finance from Bentley University, a MBA from Vanderbilt Owen, and has a CFA designation. His notable accomplishments include serving as the President of the Owen Real Estate Club, showcasing leadership and dedication in the realm of real estate education and networking, as well as volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.

Shana McCue

Renovations Operations Manager
My walk-out song would be 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton!

Shana McCue

Renovations Operations Manager
Shana has over 20 years of experience in Asset Management. At CBC, she leads and manages project teams, while ensuring accountability, conducting thorough due diligence inspections, and crafting Capex budgets for renovation projects at Clear Blue Renovations.
Her extensive background includes roles in the construction and asset management fields as a Community Director, Renovations Project Manager, Director of Construction Finance, General Contractor for both residential and commercial projects, and an Operations Manager in Construction.
Committed to giving back, she engages with Ronald McDonald House, Exit Zero, and serves in the Elementary Ministry at Graceland Church. Outside work, she’s an avid traveler, a proud mother of boys, and an enthusiast for books and podcasts.

Autumn Newsom

Assistant Development Manager
My comfort TV show is Survivor - my whole family would sit down and watch it together when I was younger.

Autumn Newsom

Assistant Development Manager
Autumn has a diverse background in construction, and maintenance roles that she brings to her role at CBC, where she specializes in assisting development managers with ground-up development projects, project budgeting, schedule tracking, meticulous monthly reporting, and project turnover.
She has a Civil Engineering degree from Tennessee Technological University and recognition as an Engineer in Training (EIT). Committed to community enrichment, Autumn is actively involved with Tucker’s House, channeling her passion for both professional excellence and social impact.

Matthew Nicholson

President
If you could use an inanimate object to portray you, what would it be? A P-51 Mustang Airplane.

Matthew Nicholson

President
Matt leads all strategic initiatives for CBC, including oversight of business performance and growth, as well as sourcing development and preservation opportunities. With over 20 years of experience, Matt’s expertise in leading high-performing, revenue generating teams for commercial construction projects opens the door for key partners in the affordable housing space. An active member of the community, Matt is a board member for Habitat for Humanity, Chair of Attainable Housing Action Council for ULI of Middle TN, and an active volunteer for Catholic Charities Family Refugee Mentor Program.

Nick Ogden

Founder and CEO
Likes long walks on the beach

Nick Ogden

Founder and CEO
Nick Ogden is the founder and CEO of The Clear Blue Company (CBC), a Nashville-based private equity real estate firm. CBC manages over $800 million in assets and oversees 4,250 units across 16 markets in the Southeastern United States.
CBC’s primary focus is on addressing the affordable housing crisis while delivering attractive
returns to investors and promoting upward mobility for its residents. Nick is a strong advocate for increasing the supply of workforce housing as the key solution to this issue. CBC is tackling this challenge at a regional level through two main strategies: preserving existing workforce housing and developing new units. The long-term goal is to use their expertise and regional influence to impact national housing policy that will increase supply.
Nick’s connection to Nashville began in 2003 when he moved to the city to attend Vanderbilt
University, where he later met his wife. Currently residing in East Nashville with his wife and two daughters, he actively engages with the community as a Board member of Nashville Classical Charter School and the East End Neighborhood Association.
Beyond his role at CBC, Nick is an engaged entrepreneur. He is an active participant in the
Entrepreneurs Organization and serves as a mentor through the Nashville Entrepreneur Center and Urban League’s Red Academy. His commitment to addressing housing issues and fostering community development reflects his deep ties to Nashville and his dedication to creating positive change.

Thomas Paduch

Director of Design and Construction
My comfort TV show is American Idol because the show is life changing.

Thomas Paduch

Director of Design and Construction
Tom is CBC’s Director of Design and Construction, spearheading day-to-day operations for Clear Blue’s Development & Ground-Up Construction projects, curating project teams, overseeing renovation operations, and aiding in strategic decision-making. Previously, Tom held various roles at Turner Construction Company, progressing from Project Engineer to Senior Project Manager and Superintendent.
Beyond his professional life, he is actively engaged within the community, serving as the Construction Committee Chair for Tucker’s House and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. Tom’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Mississippi State University, laying the foundation for his dedication to the construction industry.

Matthew Pierce

Director of Acquisitions
Lover of all reality television, the trashier the better

Matthew Pierce

Director of Acquisitions
Matthew leads the acquisitions and capital markets team, driving the identification and pursuit of new growth prospects while sourcing and analyzing debt and equity for potential acquisitions. With a decade of experience in private equity real estate, Matthew previously served as Director of Acquisitions at Anchor Investments, founded Fireside Counsel, and held the role of General Counsel at Platinum Companies, cultivating a rich background in real estate and legal expertise.
Matthew serves as President of YLB Middle Tennessee Make a Wish and contributes as a board member for Sister Cities of Nashville and the Phoenix Club. Matthew holds degrees from the University of Tennessee and the University of North Carolina School of Law, and he has been honored as a NELA Finalist and the prestigious 30 under 30 list.

Brittany Pruitt

Accounts Payable, Jr. Accountant
I played competitive travel softball for most my childhood

Brittany Pruitt

Accounts Payable, Jr. Accountant

With 11 years of expertise in finance and accounting, Brittany Pruitt serves as a Jr. Accountant, Accounts Payable adeptly managing various responsibilities crucial to financial operations. Her skills encompass processing vendor invoices, maintaining vendor databases, reconciling credit card transactions, and providing valuable support in project closeouts. 

 

Brittany’s past experience includes roles such as an Accounts Payable Specialist at ACE Accounting, Property Accountant at Avison Young, Corporate Accounting Coordinator at Associate Property Management, and an Accounting Assistant at Showtime.

 

Beyond her professional commitments, Brittany actively engages with her community by volunteering and fostering animals at local rescues and shelters.  

Kathryn Ricketts

Director of Asset Management
I was a competitive gymnast and still love the sport. The 1996 US Women’s Olympic Team will always have a special place in my heart.

Kathryn Ricketts

Director of Asset Management
Kat serves as CBC’s Director of Asset Management. Bringing 13 years of experience, she creates comprehensive strategies for business plans, develops internal reporting metrics, and oversees distressed property revitalization, additionally supporting acquisitions through due diligence processes. She is also responsible for overseeing the annual budget process, providing insights and direction to Operation Teams regarding expense management, revenue growth, and overall impact of market conditions.
Previously at Continental Realty Corporation, Kat held a variety of roles in asset management where her responsibilities included orchestrating operational best practices, directing budget processes, and managing a large portfolio of assets where she oversaw capital and renovation projects, as well as monthly investment returns.
Kat graduated with a BA from Dickinson College, and she is certified as an L1 Crossfit Instructor and volunteers at Alive Hospice.

Casey Sikora

Asset Manager
Lived in 5 states over the course of my adult life

Casey Sikora

Asset Manager
As an Asset Manager with 13 years of multifamily experience, Casey specializes in ensuring the financial health of portfolios, internal reporting, site operations, and fostering transparent communication with lenders and investors at CBC. Prior to joining CBC, she was responsible for overseeing a Southern portfolio across Tennessee, Texas, and North Carolina, where she led teams, completed lease-up communities, and developed talent. Additionally, she served as a property manager across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio, managing diverse assets, cultivating teams, and maintaining robust communication with ownership groups.
Casey volunteers with Habitat for Humanity in Middle Tennessee and aided in cleanup efforts following the 2020 Nashville Tornado, emphasizing a commitment to the local community. Her educational background includes a Bachelor’s in Strategic Marketing from Western Kentucky University, and she has completed Fundamental Training of LIHTC Compliance, the Invest in You program focusing on leadership, and the honor of being a Diamond Club Recipient at Peak Campus in 2016.

Heather Smith

Executive Assistant to the CEO
Unpopular opinion: Die Hard is 100% a Christmas movie!

Heather Smith

Executive Assistant to the CEO
Heather is the Executive Assistant to the CEO. With nine years of diverse experience, Heather’s oversight blends expert calendar management and meticulous note-taking with creating an engaging office environment and serving as an enthusiastic business partner. Previously, she contributed to the YMCA of Middle TN as an Annual Campaign Fundraiser and served as an educator in middle school, channeling her passion for making lives easier.
Actively involved in the community, she volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and proudly serves as an Ambassador for Mercy Multiplied. Heather’s educational foundation in English Literature and Secondary Teaching Licensure from Carson Newman College complements her commitment to effective communication. Recognized for excellence, she received the highest award in the Dale Carnegie Course and received the Company-wide Executive Assistant Excellence Award in 2022.

Carter Swayze

Development Manager
I’m an avid outdoorsman – any time spent outside makes me happy

Carter Swayze

Development Manager

Carter brings a unique blend of expertise in affordable housing and real estate development, with four years of experience in the field. As a Development Manager, he oversees the entire lifecycle of multifamily development, from site evaluation to property lease-up, ensuring meticulous attention to detail at every stage. Carter excels in financial analysis, securing funding for projects, and fostering business development and community engagement initiatives.

His prior roles include serving as a Senior Development Associate at Standard Communities, where he successfully opened the Nashville office and as a Development Associate at LDG Development, where he played a key role in  closing financing for hundreds of homes in Tennessee. Carter’s participation has been key in the development of nearly 1,500 units of affordable housing in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.

Carter is closely involved in community service, volunteering weekly with Men of Valor at Riverbend Prison, serving on the board of AWAKE Nashville, and actively participating in organizations like the Phoenix Club and ULI’s Housing Action Council. An honors graduate of the University of Mississippi with a double major in Managerial Finance & Banking Finance, Carter lives in Nashville with his wife, their newborn son, and their three labrador  retrievers.

Dan Tetsell

Vice President - Acquisitions
My most hilarious job was when I was a lifeguard at a water park that hadn’t opened yet.

Dan Tetsell

Vice President - Acquisitions
With 18 years of experience in real estate investments and CBC’s Vice President of Acquisitions, Dan specializes in sourcing and underwriting new opportunities, conducting thorough market research, and negotiating deals for various property types. Additionally, he presents investment opportunities to the deal committee, works with lenders to secure debt financing, and coordinates due diligence on new acquisitions.
Formerly a Multi-Family Broker at Marcus & Millichap in Denver and an Acquisitions Analyst at Real Capital Solutions, Dan is familiar with a diverse array of investment products, from fractured condos to non-performing loans.
Educationally, Dan holds a BA in Natural Resources Recreation and Tourism from Colorado State University and an MBA in Finance from the University of Denver. Among his achievements, he won the 2011 Denver ACG Case competition and has conquered Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the western hemisphere.

Matthew Thieneman

Renovation Project Manager
My wrestler stage name would be The Undertaker.

Matthew Thieneman

Renovation Project Manager
Matthew brings seven years of extensive experience in property management and renovation oversight to oversee a team of five. Matthew’s responsibilities include ensuring a seamless pre-walk and inspection of renovation units, managing scheduling, maintaining quality control and safety protocols, and overseeing emergency response measures. His background includes roles at Brookside Properties as Maintenance Supervisor and tenure at MJT Management & Services, providing a robust foundation in property maintenance and management. Engaged in community service, Matthew supports Game Changers and the V Foundation, while finding fulfillment in mentoring at-risk teens and young adults.

Building a team where every background belongs

Our people take precedent. We take time to make sure every person we interact with feels seen, valued, and has a sense of belonging.

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Interested in hearing more? Our door is always open. Let's work together.

WAYS TO PARTNER

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