Sheri Lemire
Property Manager, GWL Realty Advisors
Don’t be afraid to take opportunities and challenges when they come your way.
How long have you been involved in the commercial real estate industry?
Almost 12 years in commercial real estate with prior experience in residential. I started with GWL Realty Advisors in July of 2014 as a Property Administrator. I was promoted to Senior Property Administrator and then Assistant Manager prior to becoming Property Manager in 2024.
What are some of your responsibilities?
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- To establish and maintain strong working relationships with tenants, staff, and contractors.
- Address tenant issues promptly, effectively, and cost-efficiently while maintaining strong communication.
- Operating and capital budgets. Approval of purchase orders and invoices. Assist with the preparation of monthly financial reports.
- Complete monthly and quarterly reports.
- Ensure compliance with corporate governance, environmental, health, and safety policies.
- Oversee tenant services, property administration, payables, and office administration.
- Respond to operational issues to ensure tenant and client satisfaction and coordinate repairs and service requests.
These are just some of the tasks of a property manager.
In what ways have you leveraged BOMA to support your team and properties?
I like to promote staff to take BOMA courses and attend lunch and learns. I really enjoy the monthly luncheons. These are great for networking with new and old acquaintances in the industry as well as for career development through work on various projects, including sustainability initiatives. We completed a Decarbonization Study & Building Condition Assessment in 2025 that outlined a detailed pathway to a 50% emission reduction by 2030. We recently won the Earth Award through BOMA. The Earth Awards are based on the highest-scoring Manitoba BOMA BEST buildings in their respective categories.
What are some of the benefits you see in becoming a BOMA member?
Some of the benefits of becoming a BOMA member would be that you have access to attend seminars and participate in training programs to help strengthen your knowledge. There are events like luncheons and the Building Conference trade show that get you networking with other property managers and vendors.
What advice would you give to new BOMA members who aren’t as active?
Go to the monthly luncheons and mingle. Everyone is so friendly, and you get to know a lot of people. Maybe join a committee—this is also a great way to meet people in the industry.
What is your go-to conversation starter at BOMA events?
My go-to conversation starter would be asking other property managers about their portfolio. What buildings they manage and what hurdles they have overcome in their career.
In your role, what’s one innovative approach or idea you’ve introduced that’s made a real difference for your team or clients?
I wouldn’t say I introduced it, but the innovative approach of seasonal treats is a big hit with our tenants and staff. Also, our digital signage in our elevators to highlight upcoming events.
From your perspective, where do you see the biggest opportunities in commercial real estate?
From my perspective, I would think automation in operations, focusing on tasks that save time, reduce errors, and improve tenant experience is where I see the biggest opportunities.
What’s a valuable piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Don’t be afraid to take opportunities and challenges when they come your way.
