2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Emily Crouch, AKAM

“Emily Crouch is known for bringing clarity, structure, and positive energy to complex systems and operations. She translates complexity into practical solutions, builds strong relationships, helps teams stay organized, and encourages new ways of thinking. Her ability to connect with people and drive thoughtful, lasting improvements has helped strengthen AKAM’s operational foundation.” 

What recent accomplishment or initiative are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your firm, clients, or community?

I’m most proud of leading the full Yardi conversion across our New York portfolio, covering over 59,000 units and 360 buildings. When external consultants exited midway, I took full ownership and led the effort internally through completion. Despite the disruption, we not only stayed on track but delivered a stronger outcome, improving data accuracy, streamlining workflows and building more resilient processes that continue to support scalable and more efficient operations across the organization.

What is one major challenge you’ve overcome as a leader, and what did it teach you?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is building systems and processes that actually work in day-to-day operations. It’s easy to design something that looks right but doesn’t hold up in practice. I’ve learned to treat solutions as ongoing work, staying close to the teams that use them, listening iterating, and improving and refining in real-time. That approach leads to stronger adoption, better outcomes and more consistent results across teams.

What daily habit or routine helps you stay focused or motivated as a leader?

I bring positive energy, appreciation, and always approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset

Who has had the greatest impact on your career or leadership journey?

Jane Brevich took a chance on me early. She reminds me to always lead with curiosity and confidence.