Meet Our Expert Team
Industry-leading 1031 exchange specialists with over 150 years of combined experience, dedicated to securing your investment future.
Ruth Benjamin
Chief Client Success Officer
Ruth has an extensive background in real estate tax strategy with deep expertise in title, escrow, foreclosures, evictions, bankruptcy, mortgages, and legal matters. Over the past 35 years, she has served as president of two different 1031 Exchange Companies. Recognized throughout the industry as a subject matter expert in 1031 exchanges and tax-deferred cash-out strategies, Ruth's approach is distinctive—she listens first, thinks creatively, and delivers elegant solutions to her clients.
Areas of Expertise
Michael Chen
Chief Operating Officer
Michael Chen oversees all exchange operations and client services at The 1031 Center. With 20 years in financial services and real estate, he ensures every exchange is executed flawlessly while maintaining the highest security standards.
Education
- • M.B.A., Operations Management, MIT Sloan
- • B.S., Computer Science, UC Berkeley
Certifications
- ✓ Certified Exchange Specialist (CES)
- ✓ Project Management Professional (PMP)
- ✓ Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Areas of Expertise
Awards & Recognition
- 🏆 Excellence in Operations Award, FEA (2023)
- 🏆 Innovation in Exchange Services (2022)
Jennifer Martinez
Senior Vice President, Exchange Services
Jennifer Martinez leads our exchange services team with 18 years of specialized experience in qualified intermediary services. She has successfully facilitated over 5,000 exchanges totaling more than $2 billion in value.
Education
- • M.S., Real Estate Finance, NYU Stern
- • B.A., Business Administration, UCLA
Certifications
- ✓ Certified Exchange Specialist (CES)
- ✓ Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)
- ✓ Real Estate License (CA, FL, TX)
Areas of Expertise
Key Achievements
- ★ Facilitated 5,000+ successful exchanges
- ★ $2B+ in exchange value processed
- ★ 99.8% client satisfaction rating
David Thompson
Vice President, Reverse & Improvement Exchanges
David Thompson specializes in complex exchange structures including reverse and improvement exchanges. His expertise in Exchange Accommodation Titleholder (EAT) structures has helped hundreds of investors navigate challenging market conditions.
Education
- • J.D., Real Estate Law, Georgetown University
- • B.A., Finance, University of Pennsylvania
Certifications
- ✓ Certified Exchange Specialist (CES)
- ✓ Licensed Attorney (DC, MD, VA)
- ✓ Advanced Exchange Structures Certification
Areas of Expertise
Publications
- Reverse Exchange Strategies in Hot Markets (2023)
- Improvement Exchanges: A Practitioner's Guide (2022)
Amanda Williams
Vice President, Client Success
Amanda Williams ensures every client receives exceptional service throughout their exchange journey. With a background in wealth management and customer experience, she has built our industry-leading client support program.
Education
- • M.B.A., Customer Experience Management, Northwestern Kellogg
- • B.S., Psychology, Duke University
Certifications
- ✓ Certified Exchange Specialist (CES)
- ✓ Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCXP)
- ✓ Six Sigma Black Belt
Areas of Expertise
Key Achievements
- ★ Developed 48-hour response guarantee program
- ★ Achieved 98% client satisfaction score
- ★ Built team of 50+ exchange coordinators
Robert Garcia
Chief Financial Officer
Robert Garcia oversees all financial operations and ensures the highest standards of fund security and accounting practices. His expertise in financial controls and segregated account management provides peace of mind to our clients.
Education
- • M.B.A., Finance, Chicago Booth
- • B.S., Accounting, University of Texas
Certifications
- ✓ Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- ✓ Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)
- ✓ Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
Areas of Expertise
Key Achievements
- ★ Implemented triple-redundancy security protocols
- ★ Zero security incidents in 10 years
- ★ Developed industry-leading reconciliation systems
Why Experience Matters in 1031 Exchanges
Regulatory Expertise
Our team stays current with all IRS regulations, revenue rulings, and case law affecting 1031 exchanges, ensuring your exchange is always compliant.
Problem Solving
With thousands of exchanges completed, we've seen every scenario and know how to navigate challenges that could derail your exchange.
Industry Relationships
Our established relationships with title companies, attorneys, and real estate professionals nationwide ensure smooth transactions.
Continuous Education
Every team member maintains ongoing education and certifications, staying at the forefront of exchange strategies and best practices.
Work with the Industry's Best Team
When you choose The 1031 Center, you're partnering with the most experienced and qualified team in the industry. Let our expertise secure your investment future.
Or call us directly: (877) 483-0427