Professional Experience
Professional Experience
Finance Director - The Cleveland ClinicCarol Lester joined the Cleveland Clinic in 2001 as manager of the newly created Real Estate Department. Her experience in the real estate industry began in 1987 as a property manager of commercial office buildings. Her strength and aptitude in financial analysis and accounting has proved beneficial in advancing the level of accounting and reporting for CBRE and the Cleveland Clinic. Ms. Lester works closely with Cleveland Clinic Finance, Real Estate and Operations teams, in administering leases, preparing budgets and monthly financial analysis. Ms. Lester also manages all real estate tax issues through the entire Cleveland Clinic system, including exemptions and valuation matters.
Manager – University Hospitals
As Manager of the Real Estate Department, negotiated and prepared lease documents for faculty and internal practice plans including working with third party appraisers to establish fair market value. In conjunction with the Law Department, developed policies and procedures for lease requests, space verification and monitoring.
Group Manager – Jones Lang LaSalle and Galbreath Company
Responsible for the day to day operations of six suburban and CBD office buildings consisting of 619,000 square feet, which included managing a staff of ten. Oversaw construction projects to ensure completed on time and on budget. Bid out service contracts and made recommendations based on budget and scope of service. Consistently operated within budget.