About us

Our expertise

Acquisition & Pre-Development

At TAG Development, our expertise begins with strategic acquisition and thorough pre-development planning. We evaluate potential sites to identify opportunities that align with our vision and the community’s needs. Our team conducts comprehensive due diligence, feasibility studies, and market analysis to ensure that each project is positioned for success from the start. By understanding the unique characteristics and potential challenges of each site, we lay a strong foundation for seamless project execution and long-term value creation.

Our construction expertise is channeled through Ramas Contractors, LLC (RAMAS), an affiliate of TAG Development, co-founded by our President, Ralph Salermo, and Mark Issa. With over 20 years of collaborative experience through CIS Construction LLC (CISC), RAMAS specializes in delivering high-quality affordable and market-rate housing units, as well as commercial properties across New Jersey. Established in 2021 as a minority-owned business entity, RAMAS excels in managing large-scale projects with a proven ability to secure payment and performance bonds for contracts exceeding $70 million. RAMAS combines innovative construction practices with a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that each development is completed on time and within budget.

TAG Development’s property management expertise is rooted in our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and service. Our in-house team manages a diverse portfolio of residential and commercial properties, ensuring that each one operates efficiently and meets the needs of its occupants. We employ best practices in property maintenance, tenant relations, and financial management to maximize the value and performance of our assets. Our proactive approach to property management not only enhances the living and working environments of our tenants but also contributes to the overall success and longevity of our developments.

Our team

Ralph Salermo

President/CEO

Ralph Salermo is the President/CEO of TAG Development, where he is responsible for the identification of viable commercial, mixed use, and multifamily properties for the purpose of acquisition and further development.

Responsibilities have included construction and management of rental multi-family affordable apartment buildings, industrial/commercial redevelopment, and single and multi-family homes. Completed projects total over 1 Million square feet commercial space, with total development costs in excess of $500 Million Dollars. Having owned and managed real estate for over 20 years, Mr. Salermo has had extensive experience in real estate acquisition, construction, rehabilitation and management prior to forming MAR in September 2001.

Mr. Salermo’s responsibilities also include working with design professionals to ensure compliance with NJ Energy Efficiency programs and other value-added design input, expedition of the permitting process, preparation of project schedules, oversight of project sites, scheduling/attending inspections, and labor/government relations. Prior to founding MAR Acquisition Group, Mr. Salermo founded Salermo Property Management in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Part of Mr. Salermo’s duties included acquiring land and real estate for investment purposes.

Lee Jorge

Chief Development Officer

Lee Jorge is the Chief Development Officer of TAG Development, LLC and is responsible for strategic growth, investment analysis, and the oversight of funding and financing for acquisitions and development projects for the company.

Lee is also the founder and CEO of Bondex Insurance Group, a multi-state provider of surety bonding to the construction and development industry, and founder and CEO of Dale Group, an insurance distributor and risk management company specializing in the construction, development and environmental sectors. He has successfully underwritten surety bonding, insurance and risk services for the past 30 years with a combined project valuation of over $200 billion.

He is an active board member of The Liberty Company, Builders Insurance Group, Bondex Insurance Company, TAG Development and a long-time member of Young Presidents Organization. His education in business administration from St. Peter’s College and various certifications in surety bonding, risk management and insurance, along with his expertise within the construction and development industry have made him a sought after speaker at many industry events.

Cherron Rountree

Executive Vice President

In her role as Executive Vice President at TAG Development, Cherron leads strategic planning and project management efforts, focusing on high-profile redevelopment projects that transform communities and drive economic growth.

As a New Jersey native and business executive with two decades of diverse leadership experience, Cherron Rountree has made significant contributions to redevelopment and economic development.  Her extensive background in government affairs, strategic planning, and public relations has enabled her to forge strategic partnerships and implement innovative economic development strategies.

Throughout her career, Cherron has served in both county and municipal governments, driving economic development, securing substantial grant funding, and enhancing services for residents. Her negotiation skills have been instrumental in forming valuable partnerships, reducing taxes, and leading successful redevelopment efforts. She has also been recognized for her leadership skills and accomplishments, receiving the Business Administrator of the Year Award from the Gateway Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to her role at TAG Development, Cherron has been actively involved in various boards and organizations, including previously serving as the Board Chairwoman for the Union County Improvement Authority and as a member of Union County College’s Board of Trustees. She also served as a part-time lecturer at Rutgers University’s Bloustein School of Public Service, sharing her knowledge and experiences with the next generation of leaders.

Cherron holds a Master of Public Administration degree from New York University and a Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University. She is a Certified Redevelopment Agency Executive Director and holds a New Jersey real estate salesperson license.  With a collaborative approach, strong business acumen, and effective leadership, Cherron has consistently contributed to the growth and development of various organizations and communities, making a meaningful difference throughout her career.

Mark Gioioso

Director of Project Finance

Mark Gioioso is the Director of Project Finance at TAG Development, where he has been a vital asset for the past 12 years. With a career spanning over 25 years in affordable housing finance and development, Mark brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role. Before joining TAG, he served as a project director with several private, for-profit development firms and managed the Multifamily Lending Division at the NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA).

Mark also consults with for-profit and nonprofit developers, as well as housing authorities, to plan and finance affordable residential developments. His projects include new construction, substantial rehabilitation/conversions, and developments involving restructuring various forms of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assistance. Mark’s services encompass project feasibility analyses, identification of funding sources, and negotiations with local, state, federal, and private officials. He customizes service plans to meet clients’ needs from inception to closing and beyond.

Mark’s recent projects showcase his expertise. He secured financing for the construction of Little Ferry Senior Housing and led the rehabilitation of Audubon Towers. He also managed financing for family housing developments like Centerton Village and Brittin Village and oversaw substantial rehabilitation projects for the Perth Amboy and Passaic Housing Authorities’ RAD conversions.

Mark holds a reputation for successfully closing complex financing deals, ensuring the completion of projects on time and within budget. His dedication and leadership have made significant contributions to the affordable housing sector, providing quality living spaces for communities throughout New Jersey.

Angelica Sepulveda

Director of Construction

Angelica Sepulveda is the Director of Construction at TAG Development, bringing over 17 years of diverse supervisory experience in the construction industry to her role. Since 2007, Angelica has excelled in managing a wide range of projects, including gaming and hospitality preconstruction services, sports complexes, advanced science research centers, commercial and office renovations, data centers for medical facilities, pharmaceutical development facilities, and various residential buildings.

In her current role at TAG, Angelica oversees all phases of construction, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. She leads teams through complex developments, from initial planning to final execution, while maintaining exceptional safety standards and fostering strong team collaboration. Her recent achievements include managing the construction of several high-profile residential buildings in Newark and Philadelphia, where she demonstrated her expertise in project execution and client coordination.
Previously, Angelica led field construction teams for major firms, delivering significant projects like The Atwater in Bogota, NJ, and the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Her leadership ensured these projects were completed successfully, even under challenging conditions such as the pandemic.
Angelica holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering/Construction Management and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. She is proficient in various construction software and fluent in Spanish. Her accolades include the Women Builders Council 2018 Outstanding Women Builder Award and multiple safety leadership awards. Angelica’s extensive experience, leadership skills, and dedication to excellence make her an invaluable asset to TAG Development’s construction projects.

Jonathan Teoh

Development Manager

Jonathan Teoh is a dedicated Development Manager at TAG Development, bringing eight years of experience in property management to the team. In his role, Jonathan oversees the day-to-day operations of TAG’s diverse portfolio, which includes market-rate, low-income, and senior housing. His responsibilities encompass property management, accounting, accounts payable (AP), and accounts receivable (AR).

Jonathan has recently expanded his expertise by coordinating several projects in Newark, Jersey City, and Marlboro. His comprehensive understanding of property management and his hands-on approach have been instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation and successful execution of TAG’s projects. Jonathan’s commitment to excellence and his growing involvement in project coordination continue to make a significant impact on TAG Development’s ongoing success.

Angela Lopez

Leasing & Sales

Angela Lopez is responsible for Leasing and Sales at TAG Development, bringing over eight years of experience to the role. Angela has honed her expertise in tenant relations, service calls, and the recertification of tax-credited and low-income tenant files. Her attention to detail and commitment to providing exceptional service ensure smooth and efficient operations within the leasing and sales department.

In addition to her primary responsibilities, Angela assists with accounting tasks and helps manage the day-to-day operations of TAG Development. Her comprehensive understanding of tenant needs and operational processes makes her an invaluable asset to the team, ensuring that all aspects of leasing and sales are handled with professionalism and care.

Cristina Salman

Development Administrative Coordinator

Christina Salman is the Development Administrative Coordinator at TAG Development. With a meticulous eye for detail and exceptional organizational skills, Christina plays a crucial role in managing project contracts between owners, general contractors, and subcontractors. Her responsibilities include scheduling meetings and conference calls with potential clients, ensuring smooth communication and coordination throughout the development process.

Christina’s dedication to efficiency and her ability to handle multiple tasks seamlessly make her an invaluable asset to the TAG Development team. Her proactive approach and commitment to excellence ensure that all administrative aspects of development projects are managed effectively, contributing to the successful execution of TAG’s projects.

Trusted by

"As an investor, I've had the pleasure of working with TAG Development on several projects, and I've been consistently impressed by their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to delivering results. Their expertise in real estate development and their ability to navigate complex challenges make them a trusted partner for achieving success."

Jacinto Rodrigues, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer, Crown Bank

"TAG Development has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and excellence in their projects. Their collaborative approach and dedication to supporting local labor make them a standout partner in the construction industry. Working with TAG Development, we have seen firsthand their professionalism, attention to detail, and unwavering focus on delivering results that benefit the entire community. We highly value our partnership with TAG and look forward to continuing our successful collaboration."

Hector Fuentes, Business Manager, Laborers Local 55

"Working with TAG Development has been an invaluable experience for Semper Fi Contractors. Their commitment to supporting small, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses is exceptional. TAG’s professionalism and dedication to inclusivity create an empowering environment that fosters growth.  From project start to finish, their expertise and transparency set them apart as a true partner in our success. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and making a meaningful impact together in the community."

Miguel Angel Merino, Owner, Semper Fi Contractors

Careers

At TAG Development, we believe that our success is driven by the strength of our team and our shared commitment to building vibrant communities. Our company culture values collaboration, teamwork, and a dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of our stakeholders. As we continue to grow and take on new challenges, we are seeking individuals who embody a forward-thinking attitude, align with our mission-driven approach, and are passionate about innovation in real estate development. If you are eager to contribute to transformative projects that shape the future of our communities, we invite you to join our team and be part of our journey toward excellence. Please send your letter of interest and resume to [email protected].