SmartStop Self Storage REIT Appoints Chief Investment Officer to Board of Directors

Strategic Move Bolsters Leadership and Positions Company for Future Growth

In the rapidly evolving self-storage industry, where strategic leadership is paramount, SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. stands out as a premier owner and operator of self-storage facilities in the United States and Canada. The company, known for its robust growth and innovative approach, has announced a significant addition to its leadership team.

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. has appointed Wayne Johnson, the company’s Chief Investment Officer, to its Board of Directors. This move underscores the company’s commitment to leveraging deep industry expertise and strategic vision to drive future growth. “Wayne’s deep industry expertise and decades of leadership in the self-storage and commercial real estate sectors make him an exceptional addition to our Board of Directors,” said H. Michael Schwartz, Chairman and CEO of SmartStop. “His strategic vision has played a pivotal role in our growth, and we are fortunate to continue benefiting from his insight at the board level.”

Key Insights at a Glance

  • Wayne Johnson: Appointed to the Board of Directors, currently serves as Chief Investment Officer.
  • H. Michael Schwartz: Chairman and CEO of SmartStop, highlights Johnson’s strategic importance.
  • Industry Expertise: Johnson brings decades of experience in self-storage and commercial real estate.
  • Company Growth: Johnson has been a key leader since SmartStop’s formation in 2013.

Why Strategic Leadership Matters in Self-Storage

The self-storage industry is experiencing rapid growth and increasing competition, making strategic leadership more critical than ever. SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. has consistently demonstrated its ability to navigate this dynamic landscape through strategic acquisitions and operational excellence. The appointment of Wayne Johnson to the Board of Directors is a clear indication of the company’s commitment to maintaining this momentum. Just as a skilled captain navigates a ship through turbulent waters, Johnson’s deep industry expertise and strategic vision will guide SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. through the complexities of the self-storage market. This move is essential to ensure the company remains at the forefront of industry innovation and growth.

The Urgency of Strengthening Leadership

The self-storage sector is facing numerous challenges, including rising property costs and evolving customer expectations. Like a well-coordinated orchestra, SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. must ensure that all its components—leadership, operations, and strategy—are in perfect harmony to meet these challenges. The addition of Wayne Johnson to the Board of Directors is a timely and strategic move that will enhance the company’s ability to adapt and thrive. With his extensive experience and proven track record, Johnson is poised to play a crucial role in shaping SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc.’s future. The clock is ticking on the company’s ability to capitalize on new opportunities and maintain its competitive edge.

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. Mobilizes Strategic Vision for Future Growth

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. is committed to leveraging Wayne Johnson’s strategic vision to drive the company’s long-term growth. Johnson has been a key leader since the company’s formation in 2013, serving in various roles including Chief Investment Officer and President. His extensive experience in self-storage and commercial real estate development, spanning over 40 years, has been instrumental in the company’s success. SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. will continue to benefit from Johnson’s insights as it pursues new opportunities and advances its long-term strategy. The company’s owned or managed portfolio of over 460 operating properties, comprising more than 270,000 units and 35 million rentable square feet, is a testament to Johnson’s leadership and the company’s strategic vision.

Future Outlook

The self-storage industry is like a vast, ever-expanding landscape, and SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. is well-prepared to navigate it with the addition of Wayne Johnson to its Board of Directors. This strategic move positions the company to capitalize on new opportunities and maintain its leadership in the market. As of February 20, 2026, SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. has an owned or managed portfolio of over 460 operating properties in 35 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada, comprising over 270,000 units and more than 35 million rentable square feet.

Conclusion

The appointment of Wayne Johnson to the Board of Directors of SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. is a significant step that reinforces the company’s commitment to strategic growth and industry leadership. With his deep industry expertise and proven track record, Johnson will play a crucial role in guiding the company’s future. Join the conversation in the comments below.

About SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. (SmartStop):

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. is a self-managed REIT with a fully integrated operations team of more than 1,000 self-storage professionals focused on growing the SmartStop® Self Storage brand. SmartStop, through its indirect subsidiary, SmartStop REIT Advisors, LLC, also sponsors other self-storage programs and, through its Managed Platform, offers third-party management services in the U.S. and Canada.

As of February 20, 2026, SmartStop has an owned or managed portfolio of over 460 operating properties in 35 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada, comprising over 270,000 units and more than 35 million rentable square feet. SmartStop and its affiliates own or manage 49 operating self-storage properties across four provinces in Canada, which total approximately 42,200 units and 4.3 million rentable square feet. 

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