Anusha Alapati Davis has crafted a career that extends beyond mere transactions. Her work is fundamentally about people, vision, and community.
Hailing from Huntsville, Davis is currently the vice president of retail at Crankleton Commercial Real Estate Group. In this role, she plays a crucial part in shaping prominent retail spaces across North Alabama.
Her innovative approach and dedication to collaboration have positioned her as a notable figure among the state’s emerging leaders in the commercial real estate sector.
A Career in Community Building
With over a decade of experience, Davis specializes in adaptive reuse projects, mixed-use developments, and lifestyle-oriented concepts, particularly in the realm of dining and beverages.
She has been instrumental in revamping significant projects like Twickenham Square, Clinton Row, Stovehouse, The Avenue, The Times Plaza, Lincoln Mill, Stadium Commons, and Front Row.
Davis has a knack for aligning local, regional, and national brands with thriving retail environments, creating vibrant community hubs rather than just shopping centers. Whether acting on behalf of landlords or tenants, she has a keen grasp of merchandising strategies and market dynamics that foster long-term client success.
Reflecting on her career milestones, Davis notes that it’s hard to pinpoint just one defining project. “One of my earliest redevelopment efforts involved transforming the Clinton Row garage into a retail space in downtown Huntsville. It really sparked the retail growth in that area,” she reminisced.
She points to projects like Stovehouse, which revitalized Governors Drive, as particularly meaningful. “Growing up, that part of town felt off-limits, but now it’s part of a dynamic area,” she shared.
For Davis, the work of revitalization is deeply personal. She recalls redeveloping spaces that held memories for her from high school, with other projects connecting back to her husband’s childhood. “It’s tough to choose just one because each project feels transformative in its own way,” she articulated.
“Helping people along the way has been the most rewarding aspect.”
Trusted by Domestic and Local Brands
Davis’s portfolio features collaborations with notable industry leaders, including DGX, Amazing Lash Studio, European Wax Center, and others.
Her achievements underscore not just negotiation and strategic skills, but her talent for fostering synergy among a diverse business landscape.
Recognized Leadership
In 2022, she was selected for the International Shopping Centre’s Next Generation Leadership Network.
Currently, she serves as the Nextgen Chair for the Southern ICSC Gulf Coast, where she guides and mentors other regional experts, focusing on the future of retail development.
Davis’s influence extends beyond her immediate industry. She holds a certification as a Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) and is involved with several organizations like the Women’s Economic Development Council and the Huntsville Junior League.
Additionally, she dedicates time to mentoring other women through ICSC. “The best advice I share is to not wait for permission to be heard. Stay humble and curious, but also confident in your worth,” she advised.
Inspired by Resilience and Family
Much of Davis’s motivation stems from her family, particularly her mother. “My mother has always been my biggest inspiration. She immigrated from India, faced numerous challenges, and eventually went back to school,” she shared, admiration evident in her voice.
“She worked tirelessly to build a respected career while prioritizing her family. From her, I learned the importance of patience and faith.”
Her husband, Matt, also inspires her. Together, they’ve navigated the intricate process of starting a bank while raising two young girls.
“Supporting him in this journey has been rewarding. Building something from the ground up is no small feat, but standing by him taught me about resilience, partnership, and faith,” she reflected.
Balancing Career and Family
Despite her professional milestones, Davis considers her ability to juggle work and motherhood one of her greatest accomplishments.
“It’s difficult, to say the least. Some days are just overwhelming. But honestly, one of my proudest achievements is managing this busy career while being there for my husband and two little girls,” she said.
She recognizes the challenges but views them as integral to her mission. “It’s an honor to show my daughters that they can chase big dreams while treasuring family time,” she added.
Her daughters, aged 2 and 3.5, constantly remind her of what truly matters. “Even on tough days, just knowing I’ll be home with them makes everything worthwhile,” Davis noted.
Leading with Empathy and Vision
Davis believes effective leadership is rooted in empathy, humility, and resilience.
“Empathy lets you connect with others. Humility involves listening and adapting, while resilience enables you to keep showing up when times are tough,” she explained.
She also emphasizes the necessity of adaptability and vision.
“It’s about recognizing opportunities and helping others see what’s possible. And a sense of humor can create a safe and supportive environment for growth,” she added.
A Lasting Impact
For Davis, her work transcends retail; it’s about building stronger communities in Alabama for future generations. “My purpose is to contribute to a community that instills pride in its residents,” she said.
“Whether facilitating new retail arrivals or supporting local entrepreneurs opening their first shops, I am committed to fostering a community where people feel proud to live.”
Davis embodies what it means to be a builder—not just of projects but of opportunities and connections.
Through her vision and leadership, she is reshaping Alabama’s landscape, illustrating that true success is found in a blend of career achievements, community involvement, and family life.
