Meet Our Team
Years of experience and industry knowledge are behind each person on our team.
Fred Bennett
Fred is founder of Bennett & Company, LLC, and co-founder of the Bennett Group, LLC. Fred’s career in affordable housing spans more than 50 years. He has worked with development partners and a wide variety of non-profit groups to develop 85 properties in six states. This has included more than 5,000 units based upon HUD, USDA, tax credit, HOME, and conventional lending programs. His goal has been, and is, to build partnerships, relationships and community--as well as quality housing.
Ann Marie Rowlett
Ann Marie Rowlett joined The Bennett Group in 2002, and is currently Partner and Chief Operating Officer. As COO, she oversees the day-to-day operations of the company, ensuring that our staff is knowledgeable about the overall goals of the company and how they can best be achieved. Ann Marie coordinates all employee training, benefits, and continued education, while also maintaining a close working relationship with our partners, attorneys, accountants, and other third party professionals. Ann Marie is actively engaged in ongoing strategic planning for the company’s continued growth and success; reviewing all financial statements, projections, and tax documents.
Cynthia (Cindy) M. Prater, HCCP
Prior to joining The Bennett Group, Cindy worked as a Paralegal for ten years with a focus on commercial and residential real estate transactions. She also brings with her several years of experience in affordable housing, having previously worked as a Development Coordinator at Charter Development. During that time, Cindy worked with both Mr. Bennett and Ms. Rowlett on developments throughout Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina.
Penelope (Penny) Stephens
With an extensive background in banking and Human Resources, Penny has quickly become an integral part of our Development staff. Beginning her tenure with The Bennett Group as Office Manager, she provided critical back office support to our team. Her adaptability, and willingness to take on more challenging tasks, was evident when she accepted the role of Accounting & Human Resources Manager. While managing duties that include bookkeeping, employee benefits, and asset management, Penny also continues to assist our Partners and Project Manager in various aspects of the development process.