About Our Leadership
Clayton, the CEO of modSTORAGE, is a distinguished leader whose journey in the self-storage industry epitomizes innovation and adaptability. Born and raised in mid-Missouri, Clayton grew up imbued with strong Midwestern values, complemented by a burgeoning curiosity that propelled him to pursue his high school education across the globe. At the Leysin American School in Switzerland from 1990 to 1993, Clayton received an international education that broadened his perspectives, marrying his solid Midwestern roots with a global outlook.
Following his transformative years in Switzerland, Clayton continued his academic and entrepreneurial journey at Babson College near Boston. From 1993 to 1997, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Business, with a major in Entrepreneurial Studies. This period was crucial in laying the groundwork for his future endeavors, providing him with a robust foundation in real estate and entrepreneurial skills.
After college, Clayton returned to Missouri, driven by family responsibilities and a vision to innovate within the family's real estate business. It wasn't long before he recognized the untapped potential in a modest self-storage facility, setting the stage for his future successes in combining real estate with service-based operations.
In 2001, Clayton launched 21st Century Storage, a venture that redefined self-storage with its customer-centric approach and immaculate facilities. His leadership navigated the company through the challenges of the 2008 financial crisis, leveraging obstacles as opportunities for growth. Under his guidance, the company expanded its presence across the Northeast, California, and into the realms of Colorado and Wyoming, establishing a significant footprint in the industry.
In 2022, Clayton led a strategic rebranding of the company to modSTORAGE, marking a new era of innovation and adaptation. This rebranding was a testament to his forward-thinking mindset and commitment to ensuring the company's continued growth and relevance in a fast-evolving industry landscape.
Under Clayton's vision, modSTORAGE has excelled, setting industry benchmarks with top-notch customer service, pristine facilities, and a pioneering Storage University program for manager training. Clayton's philosophy that the success of each property is directly tied to the efficacy of local managers and support staff underscores his belief in the transformative power of good leadership and teamwork.
Clayton's life outside of modSTORAGE is as dynamic as his professional journey. Splitting his time between NYC and Aspen, he is an avid skier, a passion nurtured by his family's annual ski trips to Aspen. Influenced by his father, a real estate developer in Missouri and Aspen, Clayton's career is a blend of Midwestern values, international education, and a comprehensive outlook on life.
Moreover, Clayton has been a dedicated member of the Self Storage Association (SSA) since 1999, actively participating in conferences and staying abreast of industry trends and best practices. This commitment to industry engagement further exemplifies his dedication to excellence and innovation in the self-storage sector.
Clayton's story is not merely one of business success; it is a narrative of integrating diverse values, education, and experiences. From Missouri to the helm of modSTORAGE, his journey showcases the essence of American entrepreneurship—marked by hard work, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
