Commercial Property Manager

Commercial Property Manager

Fairlawn is a vertically integrated firm specializing in real estate investment, management, and development. Based in Chicago and Champaign, Illinois, we have a more than 10-year track record in value-add projects, development, student housing, and build-to-rent communities. With a portfolio of approximately 6,000 units and $900 million in assets under management, Fairlawn has established a strong presence across Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. We are actively expanding into additional Midwest markets.

Are you a relationship-driven commercial real estate professional who enjoys balancing operational excellence with financial performance? If so, our Commercial Property Manager role may be perfect for you! Based in Champaign, Illinois, this Fairlawn team member will oversee the operations and financial performance of Fairlawn's commercial property portfolio while supporting asset management initiatives and serving as the primary contact for our third-party property management clients. The Commercial Property Manager will report to the Senior Vice President of Property Management. The ideal candidate will embody Fairlawn's core values: Be Kind, Own It, Be Flexible, and Always Improve.

What will you do?

• Exemplify the core values of Be Kind, Be Flexible, Own It, and Always Improve
• Oversee the day-to-day operations and financial performance of Fairlawn's commercial property portfolio, ensuring properties are well maintained, financially successful, and professionally managed
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with commercial tenants, vendors, property owners, and investment partners by providing exceptional customer service and responsive communication
• Visit all managed commercial properties regularly (no fewer than once a month) to assess curb appeal, vendor compliance and identify maintenance or CapEx issues
• Analyze property performance, financial results, occupancy, lease activity, and operating expenses to identify trends, recommend improvements, and maximize asset performance
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to develop and execute annual operating and capital budgets while monitoring performance throughout the year
• Coordinate capital improvement projects, maintenance initiatives, and vendor relationships to protect, enhance, and preserve the long-term value of assigned assets
• Administer commercial lease agreements, monitor critical lease dates and tenant obligations, coordinate renewals and amendments, and partner with leasing professionals to maximize occupancy and revenue
• Provide regular financial, operational, and market reporting to Fairlawn leadership and property owners, including recommendations for improving asset performance
• Assist with business planning, market analysis, budgeting, and other asset management initiatives designed to maximize the long-term performance and value of the commercial portfolio
• Serve as the primary relationship manager for Fairlawn's third-party management clients, providing exceptional service while ensuring each property is managed in accordance with contractual obligations and owner objectives
• Negotiate and execute third-party property management agreements and contract renewals while serving as a trusted advisor to property owners and investment partners
• Identify opportunities to improve operating efficiencies, enhance tenant satisfaction, and strengthen the long-term performance of the commercial portfolio
• Serve as an ambassador of Fairlawn's brands and management services
• Pivot, roll up your sleeves, and jump in where needed!

Why should you work here?

• Competitive Pay
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Employee sponsored benefits including Short Term Disability, Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident, Flexible Spending, and H.S.A. Accounts
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Match
• Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holiday Pay
• Company events to promote team cohesion
• Wellness Days
• The opportunity to work for a growing organization where you are valued and can have a direct impact
• Quarterly off-site meetings with your manager to celebrate wins, issue solve and ensure you are set up for success

Requirements

Who you are – We'd love to hear from you if you have:

• A bachelor's degree in Business, Real Estate, Finance, or a related field preferred
• At least 5 years of commercial property management experience with demonstrated responsibility in managing financial performance, tenant relations, budgeting, and vendor management
• Experience managing commercial office, retail, industrial, or mixed-use properties; experience working with third-party property owners or investors preferred
• Strong financial and analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial statements, operating reports, budgets, and key performance indicators to support business decisions
• Proven ability to build trusted relationships with tenants, property owners, vendors, brokers, and business partners while providing exceptional customer service
• A genuine passion for AI and a proven track record of using AI tools to enhance personal productivity and work product quality
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple properties, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously while maintaining strong attention to detail
• Proficiency with relevant technology (e.g., Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, AppFolio or other property management software, and financial reporting tools) and the ability to quickly adapt to new technology
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present information professionally to both internal and external stakeholders
• Self-starter with a proactive mindset who takes ownership of responsibilities, exercises sound judgment, and works effectively with minimal supervision
• Demonstrate the ability to identify opportunities for operational improvements while balancing tenant satisfaction, financial performance, and long-term asset value
• Ethical and professional conduct and integrity beyond reproach
• Embody our core values: Be Kind, Be Flexible, Own It, and Always Improve

Some additional things you will need:

• Valid driver's license and dependable transportation
• Availability to work longer hours and weekends during department and company peak seasons
• Must be able to complete the physical functions of the position, not limited to the ability to sit for long periods of time at a computer and extensive keyboarding.

We are seeking candidates who demonstrate a strong alignment with the requirements listed above. While meeting all qualifications is preferred, we understand that exceptional candidates may bring comparable experience and skills to the table, including prior experience at Fairlawn. We value diversity of thought and experience, and we are committed to considering all applicants [internal and external] and to identifying and selecting the most qualified applicant for the role.

Our company uses the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to run and help grow our business – the tools from EOS contribute to finding the right people and putting them in the right roles, effectively solving issues as they arise, and building a culture of accountability. In short, it gets everyone on the same page and working toward the same goals. If you have an ownership mindset and take pride in all the details, joining our team may be perfect for you!

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000 + Annual Bonus