SAM Announces Key Organizational Changes to Drive Future Growth

Storage Asset Management (SAM), the largest privately owned self storage third-party management firm, announced a series of strategic organizational changes to amplify leadership capabilities and align key functions.

Alyssa Quill, CEO of SAM, expressed her enthusiasm about the changes, “As we continue to grow, it is crucial that we enhance our leadership and operational structure to meet the demands of our dynamic business environment. These changes are designed to provide additional bandwidth and strategic alignment, ultimately positioning SAM and the properties we manage for continued success. I am incredibly proud of our team’s progress and look forward to the positive impact these updates will bring.” 

KEY ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES: 

Leadership Changes & Operations Management Re-Alignment

Darren Laratonda is being promoted from SVP of Corporate Operations to Chief Operations Officer (COO).

• Darren joined SAM in 2022 and previously served as Call Center Director and SVP of Corporate Operations. Before joining SAM, Darren spent 11 years with Life Storage in roles such as VP of Operations and VP of Customer Care and Training & Development, positioning him well for this expanded role. 
• The COO provides leadership on the day-to-day operations of SAM including Field Operations, Corporate Operations, Customer Care Center, Virtual Operations, and Revenue Management.

Michael Stratton is being promoted from Vice President of Project Management to Vice President of Corporate Operations.

• Michael joined SAM in July 2024 and previously worked at Life Storage for 23 years, focusing on project management and various strategic roles.
• The VP of Corporate Operations provides leadership on the key support functions under Corporate Operations. This position reports directly to the COO.

Ronn Tisby is being promoted from Director of the Customer Care Center to Vice President of Customer Care.

• Since joining the company in 2022, Ronn has been instrumental in establishing and leading SAM’s CCC. Before joining SAM, Ronn was with Life Storage for six years, where he held various strategic positions, including Senior Client Relations Manager (overseeing the largest individual portfolio in the organization).
• The VP of Customer Care drives collaboration between Virtual Operations and the Customer Care Center. This position reports directly to the COO. 

Lee Kunkel is being promoted from Director of Corporate Operations to Director of Virtual Operations.

• Lee started with SAM in 2013 as an Assistant Store Manager and was later promoted to Store Manager. By early 2017, Lee was again promoted to District Manager. In 2019, he earned the prestigious District Manager of the Year award. In 2021, Lee transitioned to the corporate side of SAM, joining as the Senior Training and Development Manager, where he played a pivotal role in establishing SAM’s Training Department. Lee advanced to the Director of Operations role, overseeing the Training, Compliance, and Operations Support. Lee has also been awarded the SAM Core Values Award twice.   
• The Director of Virtual Operations will oversee and optimize the management of storage facilities through virtual means. This position reports to the VP of Customer Care.

Susan Newcomer will transition from Corporate Operations to Human Resources as its Director.

• Susan began with SAM in 2022, overseeing the Training and Development team.
• The HR Director will continue to oversee Training and Development while also focusing on organizational development and succession planning. This position reports to the Chief People Officer.

These strategic changes reflect SAM’s commitment to strengthening operational efficiency, enhancing collaboration across operations, and fostering the growth and promotion of outstanding leaders.