Metrocenter Mall has increased its on-the-ground repositioning power with the addition of industry veteran Deb Jacupke as director of marketing.

With more than three decades of experience in marketing, redevelopment, leasing and property management, Jacupke will apply her multi-market expertise to advance the revival of the mall — a Phoenix retail landmark on I-17 between Peoria and Dunlap roads.

Jacupke previously served in roles including director of marketing, CEO, general manager and VP of property management and marketing for retail properties across the West and Midwest.

She has directed lease-up programs, mall re-development plans and strategic marketing efforts for assets ranging from neighborhood retail centers and urban shopping centers to regional and super-regional malls. In the process, she has achieved a track record of success in strategic community partnerships, events planning, re-branding and advertising. Additional areas of expertise include budget management, operations and staff development.

Jacupke joins the mall’s team of on-site experts, including General Manager Brent Meszaros, Senior Vice President of Leasing Anita Blackford and the experience and resources of new mall owner Carlyle Development Group (CDG), which purchased Metrocenter out of three years of foreclosure and receivership, and is actively marketing the property to new vendors and uses.

“At 1.3 MSF, Metrocenter Mall is a sizeable property with sizeable opportunity,” said Carlyle Development Group COO Warren Fink. “Deb has the creativity and the industry acumen to identify the best of these opportunities, and move them forward for the benefit of our tenants and community. We are very pleased to have her on board.”

Jacupke is a past faculty member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) and a graduate of ICSC’s Marketing Institute, Leasing Institute and Management Institute. She holds a Certified Marketing Director Designation and is a former New Mexico real estate broker.