Randolph Watkins worked as CEO of CAMCO for a year, then bought the company. Recently, the homeowners association management company updated its brand by launching a new website and logo, and enhancing its social media presence. The company aims to be a partner in the community, and to that end it supports charities such as HomeAid, HELP of Southern Nevada and Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.
Explain the services that your business offers.
CAMCO is a homeowners association management company that serves as a partner for HOA boards. We offer a full range of services, including monthly financial reports, record keeping, neighborhood monitoring and licensed association managers. Simply put, we make sure an HOA operates smoothly, which benefits board members and everyone living in the neighborhood.
You were the CEO of CAMCO in 2014 but the owner the following year. Why did you purchase the company?
After running CAMCO for one year, I found that I enjoyed the business — helping others to have the best possible community they can live in, where they feel comfortable and safe. I also came to find that the CAMCO team was very focused on the company’s mission and goals. The company was positioned for continued success, and I really liked the idea of continuing a family-owned business.
To what do you owe the company’s success?
We like to say we’re an HOA’s greatest partner, and a huge part of that success is our team members, who go the extra mile to make sure our customers know we are their greatest ally. Our clients know we pick up the phone every time they call to handle their needs, and that’s something that really sets us apart.
What’s the biggest misconception about HOAs?
The biggest misconception is that the management company runs and makes the decisions for the HOA, when in fact the HOA board of directors engages the management company to carry out the policies and directives of the board and to ensure compliance with the association’s governing documents. For instance, Neighborhood A may allow homeowners to paint their homes bright purple while Neighborhood B has a rule against it. We don’t set those kind of policies; we simply work with what an HOA has put in place.
It’s also important to note that HOAs are about compliance, not punishment. They just want pleasant neighborhoods and community involvement.
What advice do you have for homeowners when it comes to dealing with a homeowners association? How do they know if it is being run properly?
A great way to know if your HOA is being run properly is to look for transparency. Get involved in the HOA, attend meetings, ask questions and review the financials. A well-run HOA will have no problems answering all of your concerns.
What has been your most exciting professional project?
The best part of this job is being able to help a fledgling HOA board turn around from having several issues and complaints to creating an environment that is attractive and enjoyable for everyone.
What is the best business advice you’ve received?
“Know your job, be honest and treat people with respect.” Master Chief Petty Officer Douglas Jacobs of the U.S. Navy told me that.
Describe your management style.
I’m a very straightforward leader when dealing with daily issues and team members. I’ve refined my style over the years as I’ve learned from successes and failures.
Also, as a U.S. Navy veteran, I know what it takes to run a tight ship and how to keep my crew happy. That knowledge has helped me successfully navigate CAMCO into its current position as the largest locally owned and operated HOA-management company in Nevada.
What is your dream job, outside of your current field?
Trauma room surgeon. The fast pace and adrenalin rush are exciting.
What is something that people might not know about you?
I love soccer and played and coached for a Southern California club for many years.