Who we are
Stature Investments is a distinguished investment firm with a legacy rooted in the American Dream. Founded over two decades ago by Janak Desai, an immigrant from Mumbai, India, our company embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and unwavering dedication to excellence.
From humble beginnings as hotel employees, Janak and his wife had a passion for real estate and investment and a vision that transformed into a thriving hospitality business. Today, under the energetic leadership of Janak’s son, Yash, we have solidified our position as a regional powerhouse with a diversified portfolio encompassing commercial real estate, business acquisition, and land development. Our expansive holdings, including prime retail centers, strategically located dental properties, high-performing hotels, fuel stations, and mixed-use developments, mark our thorough approach to investment and development.
Where we’re going
Beyond traditional real estate development, Stature Investments meticulously curates a distinct portfolio that spans commercial, retail, hospitality, and more. We seek to collaborate with businesses that share our vision for success. We identify companies with strong foundations and help them reach new heights through strategic investment and guidance. Moreover, we nurture entrepreneurial talent by partnering with visionary entrepreneurs to develop extraordinary spaces and create thriving enterprises.
As we look ahead, Stature Investments remains steadfast in its pursuit of innovation and enduring partnerships. We are committed to crafting exceptional experiences for our stakeholders while driving sustainable growth and prosperity for generations to come.
MEET OUR TEAM
Janak Desai
Founder and CEO
With a passion for real estate development ignited by his entrepreneurial spirit, Janak's journey began over two decades ago when he immigrated to the United States from India.
He and his family embarked on a journey of hard work and perseverance with humble beginnings in the hospitality industry that laid the groundwork for Stature Investments.
Recognizing the potential in the American market, Janak’s entrepreneurial venture took root in Beaufort, South Carolina, where he acquired his first hotel. This strategic investment marked the cornerstone of Stature Investments, setting the stage for a successful trajectory of family-owned developments.
Under Janak’s leadership, Stature Investments has grown into a thriving real estate investment and development firm. His unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to identify promising opportunities have fueled the company’s expansion.While Janak remains a guiding force, he has strategically positioned his son, Yash Desai, to take the helm of Stature Investments. Yash has brought a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the company. Under Yash’s leadership, Stature Investments continues to expand its portfolio and solidify its position as a leading player in the real estate industry.Janak Desai’s legacy is one of vision, perseverance, and a deep commitment to building a successful family business. His entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication have paved the way for Stature Investments’ continued growth and success.Yash Desai
President and COO
"Whether a modest venture or a grand undertaking, we embrace every opportunity that presents itself."
For a genuine story of the American dream in real-time, look no further than Yash Desai. Arriving from Mumbai, India, in 2003 as a young boy, Yash’s family established their roots in the United States through sheer determination. His parents began their American journey as hospitality employees, steadily advancing into management roles and eventually becoming proprietors of a convenience store chain.
Inspired by his parents’ relentless dedication and sacrifice, Yash pursued a business degree at the University of South Carolina. After graduation, he joined the family business, bringing fresh insights and a vision for expansion. When he questioned his parents, “Did you send me to college to work a cash register?” it marked a turning point for Stature Investments and Yash’s career.
By 2010, Yash had taken the reins of the family enterprise, and by 2014, he had begun scaling it to new heights. Today, as President and Chief Operating Officer of Stature Investments, Yash leads the company’s strategic vision and operational excellence.
Yash’s entrepreneurial spirit and strong business acumen drive the company’s growth and success. He is committed to building a high-performing team of industry experts who share his passion for innovation and excellence.
Marlon Marchena
VP of Development
A native of Nicaragua, Marlon Marchena spent his formative years in Miami and then Jacksonville. His family was involved in the construction trade, so you can say building is in his blood.
“I grew up around pick-up trucks and concrete guys,” he explains.Marlon liked construction and respected the work, but he was eager to understand the business side of it. After earning his degree in building construction management from the University of North Florida, he gained experience in Orlando before a business venture relocated him to Savannah. It didn’t pan out as expected, but he did meet Yash Desai, who recognized his drive and knowledge and made him an offer he couldn’t refuse.Marlon now spends his time on two main functions. He works on current and potential projects, assessing aspects of the deal and the highest and best use of the land to be developed. With his extensive construction experience, he is also leading the effort to keep some general contracting under in-house control. Given his first two years at Stature, Marlon is optimistic about the future.“I want to grow and take on new challenges. Longevity means everything. I love doing what I do.”Marlon is a devoted father who spends his free time with his two sons, usually playing sports.Courtney Hester
Project manager
A native of Savannah, Courtney Hester’s path to Stature Investments was far from typical. It was, however, based on the mortar that bonds us all: relationships.
Courtney graduated from UGA, majoring in sociology and political science. She went to work on political campaigns and other promotions outside of election season, including Savannah Jazz Fest. That relationship led to contacts that resulted in more project management work. It quickly became her career.“I’m always bridging the gap.”After five years, she was working with her retiring employer to sell more than $32M in assets. Stature Investments was buying one of the largest, 300 Drayton. This landmark commercial building in downtown Savannah was also home to her former company’s offices. Yash Desai was impressed with Courtney’s business and relationship skills during the transaction. When her employer closed the business, an offer was made, and she joined the team.Managing the building she once worked in has included a remodel and rebrand, with a solid restaurant business on the ground floor, 20 office tenants, and a luxury penthouse vacation rental. Courtney also maintains her relationship duties, acting as a liaison between the company’s downtown office and Pooler headquarters.“The lobbying experience helps.”On weekends, Courtney spends time with her pug, relaxing at Tybee Island beach, attending a Savannah Ghost Pirates game, or walking around her downtown neighborhood.Noah Nava
Construction manager
Noah Nava cut his project management teeth in the pricey Austin, Texas, hi-rise condo boom. The Colorado native graduated from UT with a business degree and decided to stay.
With five years of experience under his belt, he relocated to Savannah.After more than a year at a regional construction firm, Noah crossed paths with Stature Investments VP Marlon Marchena, who took notice. A relationship developed, and finally, an opportunity emerged.“I jumped at the chance to join Stature.”Noah takes a methodical approach to project management, preparing schedules and budgets, enforcing timelines, getting ahead of issues before they become problems, and preparing for inspections.Noah keeps his energy up by working out at the gym in his free time. He also enjoys photography and DIY projects.John Farmer
PE, Civil Engineer
One quarter as a dental student at Georgia Southern University was all Athens native John Farmer needed to change his mind about career plans.
The wise decision to opt for an engineering degree has resulted in a successful 28-year career with extended stops at regional powerhouses EMC and Hussy Gay Bell. John then worked as an independent business for nearly a decade.John met Yash Desai in 2020, working on a shopping center project in Pooler, Georgia. Yash was impressed at how smoothly the project went, from the permitting to the construction and all the details. For the next two years, as Stature grew, Yash tried to persuade him to come on board as the staff engineer. After much cajoling, John finally joined the team in January 2023.“I wish I had done it two years earlier. These are great people to work with.”He sees his role as more problem-solving than drawing plans. Finding the best possible use of the land, making the buildings and infrastructure fit optimally, and seeing it work and come to life is what he finds most satisfying.“We all share Yash’s passion.”In his spare time, John plays guitar in his church and enjoys watching almost any sport.Jyoti Patel
Office Manager
Jyoti Patel moved from Leicester, England, to Savannah more than 40 years ago. She joined Stature Investments in 2015, managing three convenience stores.
Her role grew as the company expanded operations, and as more convenience stores were acquired, she moved to the company headquarters to manage the managers.“The company just grew and grew and grew and grew…”Jyoti maintains supervision over the convenience stores and fuel centers, giving special attention where needed. She also handles accounting and bookkeeping for more than 55 business entities under Stature Investments.
Jyoti has been married “for a long time” and enjoys relaxing at home, cooking, and watching Indian television and game shows.
