The Peabody Companies, a group of award-winning property management and real estate firms, today announced that John McKee, Reading resident and Woburn native, has been promoted to the position of Vice President of Operations, effective immediately.

In this new position, McKee will continue to play a key role in fostering client relationships, developing new business opportunities, maintaining a resident focus, and expanding Peabody’s sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives.

McKee joined the Peabody Companies in 2009 as a regional property manager, responsible for managing more than 50 employees across 17 properties throughout New England and New Jersey. He was then promoted to regional operations director, overseeing more than 2,872 units of housing (including those specifically reserved for formerly homeless veterans). In this role, he oversaw senior and multi-site managers, engaged in long-term capital planning, established strategic plans, and served as a community liaison, while continuing to actively manage client services.

“John’s promotion reflects his hard work and commitment, delivering the ‘best in class’ highest standard in all operational aspects and significantly impacting the company’s growth and success,” said Melissa Fish-Crane, principal and chief operating officer for the Peabody Companies. “We are proud of his accomplishments and appreciate all that he does for our clients and residents.”

McKee earned both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a juris doctor degree from Boston College and was a recipient of the Regional Manager of the Year award from the Rental Housing Association (RHA). He resides in Reading with his wife Kate and daughter Lily.