Vertical Futures is a TULU original series spotlighting the leaders shaping how we live, work, and build community. Each episode brings practical insights for developers, landlords, and investors on resident experience, operations, and the technologies redefining modern buildings.
RXR’s Jarrod Whitaker shares how design, hospitality, and technology converge to deliver real estate as a service, building communities residents choose and stay with.
Building Communities That Feel Like Home with Jarrod Whitaker, Senior Vice President of Residential Operations at RXR
Episode Summary
With a portfolio valued at over 22 billion dollars and more than 10,000 residential units across the country, Jarrod Whitaker, Senior Vice President of Residential Operations at RXR, is helping redefine what it means to live well in America’s cities. In this episode, Jarrod shares his journey from the music industry to real estate leadership, the philosophy behind RXR’s resident first approach, and how hospitality, technology, and design come together to create communities people truly love.
Main Highlights
1. From music to multifamily
Jarrod started in the music industry before pivoting to real estate through mentorship and education. That path taught him adaptability and human connection – principles that continue to guide his leadership at RXR.
2. Creating community through design and hospitality
RXR’s buildings are more than properties – they are ecosystems. From lounge spaces to coworking hubs, RXR integrates design, hospitality, and programming to create spaces where residents feel both connected and cared for, while enhancing the surrounding neighborhood.
3. Real estate as a service
For Jarrod, real estate is now a service business. Through RXR’s app and hospitality program, residents access services such as cleaning, pet care, and community events. The goal is convenience without compromise – technology that makes living seamless while keeping the human touch intact.
4. Thoughtful innovation and partnership
RXR’s in house digital lab tests and builds technology that directly improves the resident experience. TULU’s integration is one example – helping residents reclaim space, access essentials, and experience convenience on demand across RXR properties.
Closing Reflection
Jarrod’s journey shows how purpose driven leadership and hospitality can transform the built environment. His story is a reminder that innovation in real estate begins with empathy and evolves through collaboration, curiosity, and courage.
Thank you so much, Jarrod, for joining us on Vertical Futures.