Our Story

In 1995 Steven J. Malsam and James L. Evans joined forces to form Evans Wakefield, a real estate development company. Together they represent a stronghold of real estate experience and success. Mr. Evans and Mr. Malsam share ownersh​ip equally and both participate in the development process.

A Partnership In Success

Evans Wakefield has been one of the most active development, construction, and management companies in the Puget Sound area for decades.  From industrial properties to retail and residential communities, each development has been carefully designed to meet market needs.  Built on a solid foundation of trust, teamwork and customer care, Evans Wakefield continues to expand its footprint in the Northwest.  In land acquisition, permitting, financing, construction, and management, we strive to create sustainable and forward-thinking developments.

President, The Evans Company

James L. Evans

James “Len” Evans has enjoyed a long and successful career as a businessman in western Washington. Len is President and majority shareholder of The Evans Company, a real estate development and property management company created in 1963 from the merger of three Evans family entities. The company and its predecessors had constructed, managed, and developed real estate for over forty years when Len and Steve started Wakefield Properties in 1995. Len remains active in both the fundamental management and the dynamic development businesses.

Owner/Lead Developer, Wakefield Properties

Steven J. Malsam

Steve Malsam was born in Havre, Montana and grew up in Whitefish, Montana and Spokane, Washington. Steve graduated in Business Finance from the University of Washington before beginning a real estate career working with two of the largest development companies in the Northwest. During this time he opened a United States office for Vancouver BC-based Polygon Homes. In 1995, Steve joined forces with Len Evans to found Wakefield Properties. The partners have since developed over $750 million in real estate projects in the Puget Sound area. Steve enjoys spending time with family, friends and playing sports.

Our Team

Evans Wakefield

Director of Construction

Ed Babbitt

After graduating from Washington State University, Ed started working for The Evans Company in 1980 building skate rinks throughout Washington. During his time with The Evans Company, Ed has managed the construction of numerous residential and commercial projects throughout the greater Seattle area. His experience, knowledge, and aptitude for efficiency…
×

Director of Construction

Ed Babbitt

After graduating from Washington State University, Ed started working for The Evans Company in 1980 building skate rinks throughout Washington. During his time with The Evans Company, Ed has managed the construction of numerous residential and commercial projects throughout the greater Seattle area. His experience, knowledge, and aptitude for efficiency made him the ideal choice as Director of Construction and to represent the owner on all new developments. Ed is also co-developer of Evans Business Park, a warehouse/industrial complex near Marymoor Park in Redmond, and Coulon Estates, a 16 unit condominium building near Coulon Park in Renton.

Vice President, The Evans Company

Scott Evans

As a third generation developer, Scott benefited from an early education in the real estate field. After graduating from Washington State University and obtaining his broker’s license, Scott returned to the Bellevue area to continue the Evans family legacy. As Vice President of The Evans Company, Scott oversees the leasing…
×

Vice President, The Evans Company

Scott Evans

As a third generation developer, Scott benefited from an early education in the real estate field. After graduating from Washington State University and obtaining his broker’s license, Scott returned to the Bellevue area to continue the Evans family legacy. As Vice President of The Evans Company, Scott oversees the leasing and insurance requirements for The Evans Company’s portfolio of properties. Scott is also co-developer of Evans Business Park, a warehouse/industrial complex near Marymoor Park in Redmond, and Coulon Estates, a 16 unit condominium building near Coulon Park in Renton.

Chief Financial Officer

Makenzie Blackburn

Makenzie Blackburn leads the Evans Wakefield professional accounting team. Makenzie graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Clemson University and then received a Master’s degree in Taxation from the University of Washington. She began her career at the Financial Services firm KPMG where she worked as a manager in…
×

Chief Financial Officer

Makenzie Blackburn

Makenzie Blackburn leads the Evans Wakefield professional accounting team. Makenzie graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Clemson University and then received a Master’s degree in Taxation from the University of Washington. She began her career at the Financial Services firm KPMG where she worked as a manager in the State and Local Tax group. Makenzie has served as Chief Financial Officer since 2022.

Director of Facilities and Maintenance

Tim Colleran

Tim Colleran joined The Evans Company in 1984, working on residential and commercial construction projects. Tim’s attention to detail and exceptional leadership skills in the field earned him the position of Facilities and Maintenance Director overseeing a crew of technicians. Utilizing the talents of his maintenance team, Tim ensures quality…
×

Director of Facilities and Maintenance

Tim Colleran

Tim Colleran joined The Evans Company in 1984, working on residential and commercial construction projects. Tim’s attention to detail and exceptional leadership skills in the field earned him the position of Facilities and Maintenance Director overseeing a crew of technicians. Utilizing the talents of his maintenance team, Tim ensures quality and safety at commercial properties in The Evans Company and Wakefield portfolios, extending from Covington to Woodinville.

Director of Commercial Real Estate Operations

Kathleen Graham

Kathleen Graham serves as Director of Real Estate Operations for The Evans Company and Wakefield Properties' commercial portfolio. Her main focus is supporting the organization’s overall success through positive relationships with tenants and other stakeholders. Kathleen holds a CPA and an MBA in International Business, and has worked in property…
×

Director of Commercial Real Estate Operations

Kathleen Graham

Kathleen Graham serves as Director of Real Estate Operations for The Evans Company and Wakefield Properties' commercial portfolio. Her main focus is supporting the organization’s overall success through positive relationships with tenants and other stakeholders. Kathleen holds a CPA and an MBA in International Business, and has worked in property & asset management, accounting and human resources.

Project Superintendent

Pat Thieme

Working for The Evans Company for more than 35 years, Pat Thieme boasts a stellar resume. From fine skilled finish carpentry to managing a multi-million dollar Harley Davidson remodel at Evans Plaza, Pat handles every project with skill and aplomb.
×

Project Superintendent

Pat Thieme

Working for The Evans Company for more than 35 years, Pat Thieme boasts a stellar resume. From fine skilled finish carpentry to managing a multi-million dollar Harley Davidson remodel at Evans Plaza, Pat handles every project with skill and aplomb.

Controller

Jing Liu

Evans Wakefield is proud to have Jing Liu on the professional accounting team as Controller. Jing brings a commitment to constant improvement and accountability to her role. Jing is a detail-oriented, customer-centric accountant, focused on critical-thinking, problem-solving and internal control to increase operational efficiency by ensuring the accuracy and timeliness…
×

Controller

Jing Liu

Evans Wakefield is proud to have Jing Liu on the professional accounting team as Controller. Jing brings a commitment to constant improvement and accountability to her role. Jing is a detail-oriented, customer-centric accountant, focused on critical-thinking, problem-solving and internal control to increase operational efficiency by ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting.

Facilities and Construction Manager, North Properties

David Waud

David Waud joined Evans Wakefield with a strong background in residential and commercial construction. He started his career as a laborer and proceeded to grow as a framer, finish carpenter, then project manager. David has worked on custom home remodels, commercial tenant improvements and residential/commercial restorations. He now focuses his…
×

Facilities and Construction Manager, North Properties

David Waud

David Waud joined Evans Wakefield with a strong background in residential and commercial construction. He started his career as a laborer and proceeded to grow as a framer, finish carpenter, then project manager. David has worked on custom home remodels, commercial tenant improvements and residential/commercial restorations. He now focuses his excellent construction and communication skills to provide tenants with top tier facilities and services.

Human Resources/Accounts Payable Specialist

Sharayah Ruhl

Sharayah Ruhl joins Evans Wakefield with a strong background in accounting, customer service and office management, and a diverse base of expertise and knowledge. Sharayah is passionate about organization, efficiency and brings a "can-do" attitude to the management of human resources, accounts payable and the many other tasks she undertakes. …
×

Human Resources/Accounts Payable Specialist

Sharayah Ruhl

Sharayah Ruhl joins Evans Wakefield with a strong background in accounting, customer service and office management, and a diverse base of expertise and knowledge. Sharayah is passionate about organization, efficiency and brings a "can-do" attitude to the management of human resources, accounts payable and the many other tasks she undertakes.  Her varied skills and positive outlook make Sharayah a great addition to the Evans Wakefield team!

Property Accountant/Assistant Commercial Property Manager

Tanya Nakamura

Tanya joins The Evans Company with a strong background in customer service and organizational skills.  Effectively overseeing various aspects of property management operations, Tanya is known for her exceptional tenant relations. Her dedication to excellence and keen eye for detail make her an asset in managing properties to the highest…
×

Property Accountant/Assistant Commercial Property Manager

Tanya Nakamura

Tanya joins The Evans Company with a strong background in customer service and organizational skills.  Effectively overseeing various aspects of property management operations, Tanya is known for her exceptional tenant relations. Her dedication to excellence and keen eye for detail make her an asset in managing properties to the highest standards. Tanya's commitment to delivering exceptional service makes her a trusted partner for both tenants and property owners alike.

Operational Support Assistant

Ron Stilwell

Ron Stilwell joins Evans-Wakefield with many years of experience in residential and commercial lending. As the former owner of Caffe Felice, a specialty coffee shop at The Landing in Renton, he brings a unique perspective to our business operations. Ron’s organizational skills and empathy for business owners helps him succeed…
×

Operational Support Assistant

Ron Stilwell

Ron Stilwell joins Evans-Wakefield with many years of experience in residential and commercial lending. As the former owner of Caffe Felice, a specialty coffee shop at The Landing in Renton, he brings a unique perspective to our business operations. Ron’s organizational skills and empathy for business owners helps him succeed in skillfully running our front office.

Wakefield Residential

Director of Operations

Kollin Malsam

Kollin Malsam, a graduate of the University of San Diego began his career as an Asset Manager, specializing in retail properties, before switching to multifamily in 2021. Currently serving as Director of Operations at Wakefield Residential, Kollin's leadership is marked by his ability to ensure the day-to-day operations of the…
×

Director of Operations

Kollin Malsam

Kollin Malsam, a graduate of the University of San Diego began his career as an Asset Manager, specializing in retail properties, before switching to multifamily in 2021. Currently serving as Director of Operations at Wakefield Residential, Kollin's leadership is marked by his ability to ensure the day-to-day operations of the organization run smoothly. His collaborative leadership style and commitment to excellence empower his team to deliver exceptional results.

Director of Leasing & Marketing

Chelsea Landon

Chelsea brings an accomplished marketing background with 15 years of experience in the real estate industry, demonstrating expertise in marketing management, strategic planning, advertising, market research, and lead generation. Chelsea holds a BA in Business/Marketing from Northwest University and is known for a focused approach to supporting growth and innovation…
×

Director of Leasing & Marketing

Chelsea Landon

Chelsea brings an accomplished marketing background with 15 years of experience in the real estate industry, demonstrating expertise in marketing management, strategic planning, advertising, market research, and lead generation. Chelsea holds a BA in Business/Marketing from Northwest University and is known for a focused approach to supporting growth and innovation within evolving market dynamics.

Property Manager, The Lodge Apartments

Bella Guitron

With over 13 years of experience in property management, Bella has been an integral part of The Lodge's team since 2017, where her passion and dedication have flourished. Bella has risen through the ranks due to her commitment to growth, excellence, and creating a positive team culture. Bella places a…
×

Property Manager, The Lodge Apartments

Bella Guitron

With over 13 years of experience in property management, Bella has been an integral part of The Lodge's team since 2017, where her passion and dedication have flourished. Bella has risen through the ranks due to her commitment to growth, excellence, and creating a positive team culture. Bella places a high value on providing exceptional customer experiences, recognizing the significant impact her role plays in people's lives.

Property Manager, The Woods at Alderwood

May Siu

×

Property Manager, The Woods at Alderwood

May Siu

Director of Admin Services

Kim Cook

×

Director of Admin Services

Kim Cook

Director of Finance

Joseph Peha

Joe Peha brings a Bachelor's degree in Financial Economics from Western Washington University and real world experience to his role with Wakefield Residential. With a passion for financial data and problem solving, Joe has improved internal processes and automation, and continues to utilize technology to make life easier for tenants…
×

Director of Finance

Joseph Peha

Joe Peha brings a Bachelor's degree in Financial Economics from Western Washington University and real world experience to his role with Wakefield Residential. With a passion for financial data and problem solving, Joe has improved internal processes and automation, and continues to utilize technology to make life easier for tenants and the Wakefield Residential team. Joe's can-do attitude, cheerful smile and overall good energy make him a valuable team member.

Senior Maintenance Supervisor

Stevon Thomas

×

Senior Maintenance Supervisor

Stevon Thomas

Human Resources Program Manager

Alicia Trujillo

Alicia joins the Evans-Wakefield team with over 20 years’ experience in Human Resources and Community Engagement. A Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Social Sciences from the University of Washington guides her respect for the nuances and sensitivities that come from transforming corporate culture, challenging status quo, and demanding transparency in…
×

Human Resources Program Manager

Alicia Trujillo

Alicia joins the Evans-Wakefield team with over 20 years’ experience in Human Resources and Community Engagement. A Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Social Sciences from the University of Washington guides her respect for the nuances and sensitivities that come from transforming corporate culture, challenging status quo, and demanding transparency in business practices. She is a passionate and committed advocate for empowering marginalized voices in order to create inclusivity, equity, and diversity in all spaces.