Commercial Property Manager

Fairlawn • Champaign, IL

8d • $85,000 - $950,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Fairlawn is a real estate investment, management, and development firm with a strong track record in value-add projects, development, student housing, and build-to-rent communities. Based in Chicago and Champaign, Illinois, with a portfolio of approximately 6,000 units and $900 million in assets under management, Fairlawn is expanding into additional Midwest markets. This Commercial Property Manager role, based in Champaign, Illinois, will oversee the operations and financial performance of Fairlawn's commercial property portfolio, support asset management initiatives, and serve as the primary contact for third-party property management clients. The role reports to the Senior Vice President of Property Management and requires embodying Fairlawn's core values: Be Kind, Own It, Be Flexible, and Always Improve.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with third-party property owners or investors preferred.

Responsibilities

• 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!

Benefits

• 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
• Wellness Days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree