Jeff Zalla

Chief Financial Officer

Jeff has been a private equity investor focused on lower middle-market companies and real estate opportunities in the Greater Cincinnati region. Jeff presently serves as co-founder and Operating Partner of Diatom Aviation, CEO of Tufco Flooring, and co-founder of Alchemy Mineral. Prior to becoming a private investor, Jeff was the award-winning CFO of Chiquita (NYSE), where he also served as Corporate Responsibility Officer, VP of Corporate Communications, and in a variety of strategic and finance roles over 19-years with the Company.

Jeff earned his MBA with distinction from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, with majors in Entrepreneurship and Real Estate, and graduated summa cum laude from Thomas More College. Jeff has an abiding love of sustainability, and served for 15 years on the board of BSR, the leading global not-for-profit organization working with business to create a just and sustainable world.

Jeff and his wife Christina have four adult children and live in Northern Kentucky. Outside of family and work, Jeff immerses himself in natural beauty and the pursuit of fine craftsmanship, especially in woodworking and glassblowing. Jeff is now hand-crafting a 600-square-foot cabin on a 20-acre property in Burlington, Kentucky.

Our Mission

Safe & Clean Communities

We create and nurture communities that reflect the pride of homeownership. From paved roads and driveways to walkable sidewalks and streetlights, our neighborhoods bring families together.

Affordable Home Ownership

Whether a first-time home owner or a solution for retirement, brightSTAR Communities provide a variety of options to make your dreams a reality. Explore our properties and find a home that fits your needs.

Conveniently Located

It’s easy to feel at home right from the start at brightSTAR Communities. We are conveniently located next to schools, shopping, parks and nature trails. Get engaged in the life you’ve always wanted.