With over 20+ years working at Walnut Capital, she has a story (or two) to share!

Meet Jen Dupal, Walnut Capital’s Commercial Property Manager! Jen has worn many hats during her tenure with WalCap and it’s safe to say she’s excelled at all of them… although she admits she flew by the seat of her pants and learned along the way!

Jen was an accountant before jumping ship and joining Walnut Capital in the year 2000 thanks to a phone call from, you guessed it, the infamous Diana Corbett! Jen and Diana had a connection which prompted her to call up Jen and ask her if she was interested in getting a new job. Long story short, Jen interviewed with Diana and well, never left! Jen was originally hired to assist with operating and development items which snowballed into many other job duties over the years!

Every work day was different then, and every work day is different now. Jen thrives in the comotion of day-to-day changes, a fast-paced environment and staying on her toes. Back then, the entire staff equated to only 15 people. The vibe was laid back, but extremely busy! Almost every employee had their hand in new projects and the team spent a lot of late nights on Walnut Street finishing projects.

The early days were the definition of teamwork. Every employee, regardless of job title, would chip in to get the job done.

There was an energy and buzz among the employees to work together to move the company forward and do things the right way.

Jen described it as an exciting workplace dynamic where everyone was close and committed to the company. She remembers wanting to perform well, in a timely manner, and to the best of her ability. Although the number of employees has quadrupled since then, she still feels that way today!

She sometimes thinks back on the start of her career and isn't sure why it wasn't a television show! Picture this: Two owners arguing at the top of their lungs, one charges over to the other's desk and wipes it clean with anger. Papers fly, staplers, tape dispensers, pens and highlighters crash to the floor. All in an open concept office space where Jen and other employees are innocent bystanders who keep quiet. The argument comes to a close and within the next hour the owners proceed to have lunch together like nothing ever happened. Best buddies forever, a totally normal occurrence.

It was almost as if there were mini skits throughout the day and I would get to view a live performance from my desk.

Unprompted skits or not... it works.

Gregg and Todd's relationship is unique and Jen has been lucky enough to not only see the company evolve and but to have her hand in making the city of Pittsburgh a better place. From restoring historic properties, to developing brand new spaces, Jen enjoys the real estate and development industry. Her favorite projects are Walnut on Highland, Bakery Square and Bakery Living. 

Today, she manages a whole bunch of Walnut Capital's Commercial Properties throughout the city (and beyond!) making sure everything is up to par at all locations, ensuring tenants are taken care of and completing leasing activities for all! She dabbles in some HOA duties, still takes on office management tasks and is ready for whatever comes across her plate from day to day. 

That statement holds true at home, too! With four kids, Jen is a super mom to Joshua, Jessica, Jenna and Jadyn. Did we mention her husband's name is John? She's also a big fan of... you guessed it, the letter 'J'!