Riverlights has welcomed Nick Cassala as its vice president of operations.

Cassala brings more than 20 years of experience in real estate development and growth to the Wilmington-based mixed-use community, according to a news release.

In his role, Cassala will spearhead master planning, entitlements and development activities at Riverlights as well as lead operational oversight and oversee the development of the community’s business strategy, officials stated in the release.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Riverlights and Newland,” Cassala said in the release. “This is a vibrant community with an unbeatable location. As stewards of this remarkable land, Newland has planned a very special place along the river and I’m excited to play a part in bringing it to life.”

Cassala has previously worked as president of residential development of The St. Joe Co., CEO/general manager of The Ford Plantation and most recently served as president/general manager at Greenlife Development in Evansville, Indiana, according to the release.

Cassala was raised in Florida. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Florida.

“We are so honored to have Nick join the Newland family and specifically the Riverlights team,” Alex McLeod, regional president, Newland, said in the release. “His breadth of knowledge and skill will undoubtedly assist Riverlights in growing and strengthening its community in the years to come.”