Lou Barnholdt

About Lou Barnholdt

Lou Barnholdt is the Vice President of Sales and Development at Universal Storage Group (USG). She has been with USG for 24+ years, spending 22 of those years in operations before transitioning to her current role in sales and on the leadership team just 2.5 years ago. With over two decades of operational knowledge, Lou has consistently advanced within USG, making significant contributions along the way. She is a key member of both the Sales and Leadership teams, specializing in feasibility studies and operational consulting. She has a proven track record in operational excellence, budgeting, forecasting, marketing, and developing sales strategies. Lou actively represents USG at state and industry events, where she participates in speaking engagements and educational initiatives that empower self-storage managers and owners. As a regular contributor to industry publications, she has established herself as a respected thought leader in the self-storage sector. Lou holds a BA from Syracuse University and the CSSM™ designation from the National Self Storage Association, bringing over 20 years of expertise to her role. Her passion for sharing knowledge and commitment to excellence have driven innovation and growth at USG, positively impacting both the company and the broader industry. Universal Storage Group currently manages more than 70 facilities nationwide and holds over 20 consulting contracts. The company has earned 13 Facility of the Year awards and more than 10 ISS Best of Business Awards. Specialties: CSSM Designation

Experience

1. Vice President of Sales and Development

   Universal Storage Group

   Feb 2024 — Present

Education

• Syracuse University

  Bachelor’s Degree, Architecure/Environmental Design

  1991 — 1995