Meet Our Team

Our Leadership Team

Michael J. Surak | Founder

Michael J. Surak founded The Englewood Group (TEG), leading the development, construction, and management of over 3,100 rental and conventional housing units and a commercial medical office facility. Before establishing TEG, he was active in commercial real estate and finance. Mr. Surak holds a degree in Economics from Millikin University.

Julia Surak | President

Julia Surak directs the strategic planning and oversees the administration of property management, development, accounting, and compliance at TEG. Joining the team in 2015, Ms. Surak brought 12 years of experience as a Real Estate Asset Manager in San Diego, California. She earned her Bachelor's in Business Administration from Mount Saint Joseph University.

Nick Surak | Executive Vice President

Nick Surak is responsible for all real estate development and project management at TEG. Nick has been in the affordable housing industry for nearly two decades and developed or preserved over 2,000 units across 7 states with a project value of over $400 million. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Marquette University.

Julie Tucker | Chief Financial Officer

Julie Tucker has been involved in the affordable housing community since 1995, specializing in accounting for LIHTC acquisition/rehabilitation properties, financial analysis of existing portfolios, and investor relations. Her certifications include National Compliance Professional (LIHTC), Assisted Housing Manager (HUD), and S.T.A.R. (USDA). Ms. Tucker served as a voting board member and Treasurer of the Affordable Housing Association of Indiana for ten years. She focuses on ensuring compliance with state housing authorities and other programs and on financial monitoring of property operations. Before joining TEG in 2001, she held various financial executive roles. Ms. Tucker earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Indianapolis.

Melanie Watson | Director of Property Management

Melanie Watson oversees the field teams of Regional and Site Managers across our three-state portfolio of 58 multifamily properties. She ensures the day-to-day management and operations of all sites, providing well-maintained affordable housing for residents. Before joining TEG, Ms. Watson was a Commercial Property Manager for a retail portfolio. She attended Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.