Team
Our experienced team of professionals is grounded in fundamental investing and dedicated to value creation and risk mitigation through all stages of ownership.
Our experienced team of professionals is grounded in fundamental investing and dedicated to value creation and risk mitigation through all stages of ownership.
Angela Alomia Matias
Executive AssistantMs. Alomia Matias joined GEM in 2020 and is an Executive Assistant supporting the capital raising and investor relations team.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Alomia Matias was a Marketing Specialist and Executive Assistant at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage where she was responsible for marketing operations, charitable initiatives, and executive support.
Sara Anderson
Receptionist & Administrative AssistantMs. Anderson joined GEM in 2022 and leads front-desk management as well as other broad administrative activities. Ms. Anderson also supports members of the tax, information technology and financial reporting teams.
Ms. Anderson received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Saint Xavier University.
Sheeza Anwar
IT SpecialistMs. Anwar joined GEM in 2022 and is an IT Specialist. In this role, Ms. Anwar primarily focuses on end-user technology and software, network, and operational support.
Ms. Anwar received a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Health Sciences from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
John Banke
Manager, Trading OperationsMr. Banke joined GEM in 2019 and is a Manager in Trading Operations for GEM Realty Securities. In this role, Mr. Banke manages the middle and back office.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Banke was an OTC Operations Associate at Magnetar Capital. Prior to that, Mr. Banke was a Consultant at Northern Trust Hedge Fund Services.
Mr. Banke received a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University.
John Buck
Vice PresidentMr. Buck joined GEM in 2021 and is a Vice President on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Buck is primarily focused on underwriting private-market real estate opportunities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Buck was an Associate in the commercial real estate advisory group at Stagecoach Partners, where he focused on underwriting and financial due diligence for asset and portfolio level transactions.
Mr. Buck received a Bachelor of Science in Business with dual majors in Finance and Real Estate from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University.
Craig Caffarelli
Senior AdvisorMr. Caffarelli joined GEM in 1994 and is a Senior Advisor to the Executive Committee and GEM’s senior leadership team. In this role, Mr. Caffarelli advises on corporate strategy and firmwide initiatives. Prior to this role, Mr. Caffarelli served as GEM’s Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Caffarelli is also a member of GEM’s Risk and Valuation Committees.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Caffarelli worked for JMB Realty Corporation in finance, asset management, and financial reporting.
Mr. Caffarelli serves on the Board of Directors of the Morgante Wilson Foundation and is an advisor to Bernie’s Book Bank. Mr. Caffarelli received a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Brad Caldwell
Co-Chief Investment Officer - GRSMr. Caldwell joined GEM in 2008 and is the Co-Chief Investment Officer of GEM Realty Securities. Mr. Caldwell has joint portfolio management and investment strategy decision-making authority over the GEM Realty Securities portfolios. Mr. Caldwell works across GEM’s platform to identify and prioritize investment opportunities, primarily focusing on lodging, leisure, infrastructure, and real estate related sectors. Additionally, Mr. Caldwell serves on the Investment Committee where he is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy.
Mr. Caldwell received a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the Leeds School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Colorado.
Michael Chen
Senior Managing Director, Head of Capital RaisingMr. Chen joined GEM in 2024 and is the Head of Capital Raising. In this role, Mr. Chen’s primary responsibility is to develop and execute GEM’s capital raising strategy and serve as a liaison with the investor community. Additionally, Mr. Chen serves on the Investment Committee where he is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Chen was a Managing Director, Global Head of Capital Markets at Madison International Realty, where he oversaw global capital raising and investor relations, and served on the Investment Committee and Risk Committee of the firm. Prior to joining Madison in 2014, Mr. Chen was Co-Head of the Capital Markets Group at the Paramount Group. Prior to that, Mr. Chen was an Executive Director in J.P. Morgan’s Real Estate Investment Banking Group, working in both New York and London, and held various positions with Marriott International and Crestline Capital.
Mr. Chen serves as a Board Member of the Kenan Flagler Business School of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is an active member of various global real estate organizations and serves on the Membership Committee of Pension Real Estate Association (PREA). Mr. Chen received a Master of Business Administration from the Kenan Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan.
Samantha Clark
Asset Management CoordinatorMs. Clark joined GEM in 2019 and is the Asset Management Coordinator supporting the asset management team on strategic initiatives across GEM’s private-market real estate investments.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Clark was a Receptionist and Administrative Assistant within asset management and investments at Ivanhoé Cambridge.
Ms. Clark received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Kyle Conrad, CPA
Accounting ManagerMr. Conrad joined GEM in 2017 and is an Accounting Manager. In this role, Mr. Conrad focuses primarily on financial reporting for GEM Realty Properties and GEM Realty Securities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Conrad was a Senior Audit Associate in RSM’s real estate practice.
Mr. Conrad received a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Eastern Illinois University. Mr. Conrad is a Certified Public Accountant.
Jonathan Copeland
Vice PresidentMr. Copeland joined GEM in 2016 and is a Vice President on the asset management team for GEM Realty Properties, with a primary focus on hotel assets.
Mr. Copeland serves as an officer of the Rebecca A. Copeland Foundation for Social Justice. Mr. Copeland received a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Adam DeBoey
Senior Managing DirectorMr. DeBoey joined GEM in 2018 and is a Senior Managing Director on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. DeBoey sources private-market real estate opportunities, negotiates investment terms, and coordinates acquisition due diligence efforts.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. DeBoey was a Senior Vice President at LaSalle Investment Management, where he focused on multifamily, office, and retail acquisitions. Prior to joining LaSalle, Mr. DeBoey was a member of the real estate investment banking team at Goldman Sachs.
Mr. DeBoey received a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Bucknell University.
Emily Dominski
Managing DirectorMs. Dominski joined GEM in 2012 and is a Managing Director on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Ms. Dominski sources private-market real estate opportunities, negotiates investment terms, and coordinates acquisition due diligence efforts.
Ms. Dominski serves on the Auxiliary Board of Embarc and sits on the Granting Committee for Help For Children. Ms. Dominski received a Bachelor of Arts in American & Urban Studies from Yale University.
Jennifer Edgcomb
Director of Community EngagementMs. Edgcomb joined GEM in 2000 and is the Director of Community Engagement. In this role, Ms. Edgcomb is primarily responsible for the development and implementation of the firm’s philanthropic and community engagement initiatives. Ms. Edgcomb is also the co-chair of GEM’s Charitable Contributions Committee.
Prior to this role, Ms. Edgcomb was involved in business development, investor relations, and operations for GEM Realty Properties and GEM Realty Securities.
Ms. Edgcomb serves on the Board of Directors of Lucky Plush Productions. Ms. Edgcomb received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Michael Elrad
Senior Managing Partner, Executive Chairman - GRSMr. Elrad co-founded GEM in 1994 and is a Senior Managing Partner. Mr. Elrad serves on the Executive Committee where he oversees corporate strategy and acts as Executive Chairman of GEM Realty Securities, advising on broad platform strategy and investment themes. Additionally, as a member of the Investment Committee, Mr. Elrad is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy.
Mr. Elrad launched GEM Realty Securities in 1998 and served as its Chief Investment Officer and Portfolio Manager through 2016. Prior to GEM, Mr. Elrad was a Vice President in the loan restructuring group at JMB Realty Corporation.
Mr. Elrad is a board member of the Digestive Health Foundation at Northwestern Medicine and is actively involved in the YPO and CEO organizations. In 2022, Mr. Elrad completed a ten-year term as a member of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania’s Undergraduate Executive Board. Mr. Elrad received a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Gladys Falcon
Vice PresidentMs. Falcon joined GEM in 2003 and is a Vice President focused on firmwide compliance. Prior to this role, Ms. Falcon was a Securities Trader for GEM Realty Securities and supported business development for GEM Realty Securities and GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Falcon worked as a Sales Assistant at Lehman Brothers.
Ms. Falcon earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Robin Fine
Executive AssistantMs. Fine joined GEM in 2019 and is an Executive Assistant supporting the investment and human resources teams. Ms. Fine is also a co-chair of GEM’s Diversity & Inclusion Steering Committee.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Fine was a Real Estate Broker at Chicago Properties Firm.
Ms. Fine received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Josephine Fox
Executive AssistantMs. Fox joined GEM in 2024 and is an Executive Assistant supporting senior members of GEM’s Leadership and investment team.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Fox was an Executive Assistant at West Monroe where she supported the marketing team.
Ms. Fox received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from San Francisco State University.
Mike Fox
Senior Vice PresidentMr. Fox joined GEM in 2011 and is a Senior Vice President on the asset management team for GEM Realty Properties, with a focus on office, development, and student housing as well as niche asset classes, such as studios and R&D. Mr. Fox is involved in all facets of asset management including development, renovation, leasing, management, financing decisions, budget review and approval, and asset disposition.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Fox worked for RSM McGladrey as part of their outsourced financial reporting group servicing GEM Realty Properties. Prior to that, Mr. Fox was an Auditor in the real estate group at KPMG.
Mr. Fox received a Master of Accounting Science and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Andrew Franklin
Co-Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial OfficerMr. Franklin joined GEM in 2005 and is Co-Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. In his role as Co-Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Franklin has broad corporate operations responsibilities. As Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Franklin oversees accounting, financial reporting, valuations, tax structuring and filings, and cash management for GEM Realty Properties as well as valuation and performance measurement for GEM Realty Securities. Mr. Franklin is also a member of GEM’s Risk and Valuation Committees.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Franklin worked for ZS Associates as an Associate Consultant.
Mr. Franklin received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Michigan.
Jeremy Franklin, CFA
Senior Managing DirectorMr. Franklin joined GEM in 2004 and is a Senior Managing Director focusing on investments and strategy for the firm. Mr. Franklin is responsible for sector and stock-level investment idea generation for GEM Realty Securities, and analyzes macro and secular trends that inform the Investment Committee and steer investment strategy across GEM’s platform. Mr. Franklin is also a member of GEM’s Risk Committee and chair of GEM’s ESG Committee.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Franklin was an Associate Director at Bank One, providing structured products to the hedge fund industry. Prior to that, Mr. Franklin worked for Bain & Company where he analyzed strategic issues facing client organizations.
Mr. Franklin serves on the Leadership Council of A Better Chicago. Mr. Franklin received a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Applied Science from the School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Pennsylvania. Mr. Franklin holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Kevin Freije
AssociateMr. Freije joined GEM in 2022 and is an Associate on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Freije is primarily focused on underwriting private-market real estate opportunities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Freije was a Senior Analyst at USAA Real Estate, where he focused on underwriting, due diligence, and transaction execution for multifamily and senior housing development projects.
Mr. Freije received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern University.
Michael Geller
Co-Chief Investment Officer - GRSMr. Geller joined GEM in 2009 and is the Co-Chief Investment Officer of GEM Realty Securities. Mr. Geller has joint portfolio management and investment strategy decision-making authority over the GEM Realty Securities portfolios. Mr. Geller works across GEM’s platform to identify and prioritize investment opportunities, primarily focusing on traditional and specialty REITs as well as real estate brokers and service providers. Additionally, Mr. Geller serves on the Investment Committee where he is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Geller was an Associate in the Global Real Estate Group at Lehman Brothers.
Mr. Geller serves on the Executive Board of OWLS Lacrosse. Mr. Geller received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.
Norman Geller
Senior Managing Partner, Executive Chairman - GRPMr. Geller co-founded GEM in 1994 and is a Senior Managing Partner. Mr. Geller serves on the Executive Committee where he oversees corporate strategy and acts as an Executive Chairman of GEM Realty Properties, advising on broad platform strategy and investment themes. Additionally, as a member of the Investment Committee, Mr. Geller is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy. Mr. Geller is also a member of GEM’s Risk and Valuation Committees.
Prior to GEM, Mr. Geller was an Executive Vice President of JMB Realty Corporation where he formed and led the loan restructuring group. Prior to that, Mr. Geller was in the portfolio management group where he was responsible for the strategic planning and performance of various types of real estate assets in the JMB portfolio.
Mr. Geller received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Berietha Glass
Senior Accounts Payable ManagerMs. Glass joined GEM in 2013 and is a Senior Accounts Payable Manager. In this role, Ms. Glass is responsible for coordinating invoices and payments.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Glass was an Assistant Accounts Payable Manager at JMB Financial Advisors.
Ms. Glass serves on the Board of Directors of Anointed Word International Ministries. Ms. Glass received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale.
José Gonzalez
Senior Systems EngineerMr. Gonzalez joined GEM in 2015 and is a Senior Systems Engineer. In this role, Mr. Gonzalez primarily focuses on monitoring, configuring, and maintaining the firm’s IT infrastructure, including the network and servers, virtual environment, backup and disaster recovery, and cybersecurity.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Gonzalez was a Technical Architect at PLA where he supported medium and large enterprise networks and designed, implemented, and maintained computer networks.
Mr. Gonzalez received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Saint Xavier University.
Vicky Hardaloupas, CPA
ControllerMs. Hardaloupas joined GEM in June 2011 and is a Controller. In this role, Ms. Hardaloupas oversees portfolio accounting for GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Hardaloupas was a Manager for RSM McGladrey as part of their outsourced financial reporting group servicing GEM Realty Properties. Prior to that, Ms. Hardaloupas worked for Jones Lang LaSalle as part of its corporate finance group.
Ms. Hardaloupas received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign. Ms. Hardaloupas is a Certified Public Accountant.
Louis Hellebusch
General Counsel | Chief Compliance OfficerJoe Hoscheit
AssociateMr. Hoscheit joined GEM in 2022 and is an Associate on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Hoscheit is primarily focused on underwriting private-market real estate opportunities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Hoscheit was an Associate in the multifamily group at Crow Holdings Capital, where he focused on the underwriting and asset management of new investment opportunities in multifamily, student housing, and manufactured housing.
Mr. Hoscheit received a Master of Science in Management Studies from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and Bachelor of Science in Economics from Northwestern University.
Spencer Howard
AssociateMr. Howard joined GEM in 2024 and is an Associate on the asset management team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Howard supports both asset and portfolio-level management of GEM’s private-market real estate investments.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Howard was an Analyst in the commercial real estate group at J.P. Morgan, where he focused on real estate debt originations.
Mr. Howard received a Master of Science in Management Studies from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Science in Learning and Organizational Change from Northwestern University.
Sarah Humphrey
Staff AccountantMs. Humphrey joined GEM in 2022 and is a Staff Accountant. In this role, Ms. Humphrey focuses primarily on financial reporting for GEM Realty Properties.
Ms. Humphrey received a Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Butler University.
Noel Kamenica
IR CoordinatorMr. Kamenica joined GEM in 2023 and is the IR Coordinator. In this role, Mr. Kamenica primarily focuses on investor services for GEM Realty Properties and GEM Realty Securities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Kamenica was a Business Development Specialist at IRA Club.
Mr. Kamenica received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Northwestern University.
Elizabeth Keigher
Co-Chief Operating OfficerMs. Keigher joined GEM in 2001 and is Co-Chief Operating Officer. In this role, Ms. Keigher has broad corporate operations responsibilities, as well as oversees all aspects of operations and strategic growth initiatives for GEM Realty Securities. Ms. Keigher is also a member of GEM’s Risk Committee and co-leads GEM’s Diversity & Inclusion Initiative.
Prior to this role, Ms. Keigher was the Senior Securities Trader for GEM Realty Securities, responsible for all trade execution, technology, and relationships, as well as real-time portfolio and risk analysis.
Ms. Keigher serves on the Board of Directors of VOCEL. Ms. Keigher received a Bachelor of Science in Finance with a concentration in Investments from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Robert Kenny
Vice PresidentMr. Kenny joined GEM in 2021 and is a Vice President in portfolio management and valuations for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Kenny primarily focuses on performance measurement, portfolio management, and investor reporting.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Kenny was a Senior Financial Analyst at Avison Young. Prior to that, Mr. Kenny was a Senior Associate at Duff & Phelps.
Mr. Kenny received his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign.
William Krug
Vice PresidentMr. Krug joined GEM in 2017 and is a Vice President on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Krug coordinates acquisition due diligence efforts, participates in investment term negotiations, and sources private-market real estate opportunities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Krug was an Analyst in the commercial real estate investment sales department at Eastdil Secured.
Mr. Krug received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Notre Dame.
Leyla Leblebici
Managing Director, Co-Head of Asset ManagementMs. Leblebici joined GEM in 2018 and is the Co-Head of Asset Management for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Ms. Leblebici has joint asset management oversight of GEM’s private-market real estate investments with a primary focus on hotel, senior housing, and industrial investments. Ms. Leblebici is involved in all facets of portfolio and asset management including oversight of management teams, financial decisions, renovations, budget review and approval, refinancing, valuations, and asset disposition. Ms. Leblebici oversees the quarterly reporting process and presents the annual budget to the Investment Committee.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Leblebici was a Director of Investments at Greenfield Partners, where she worked in acquisitions and asset management and led hospitality initiatives. Prior to that, Ms. Leblebici was with Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels in the strategic advisory group providing consulting and third-party asset management services to hotel owners and investors.
Ms. Leblebici received a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Jake Lewis, CFA
Managing Director, Co-Head of Asset ManagementMr. Lewis joined GEM in 2017 and is the Co-Head of Asset Management for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Lewis has joint asset management oversight of GEM’s private-market real estate investments with a primary focus on single family rental, residential, senior housing, and office investments. Mr. Lewis is involved in all facets of portfolio and asset management including development, renovation, leasing, management, financing decisions, budget review and approval, valuations, and asset disposition. Mr. Lewis oversees quarterly reporting and presents the annual budgets to the Investment Committee.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Lewis worked for Morgan Stanley in their real estate investments group as an Asset Manager covering multifamily, office, industrial, retail, and hotel investments. Prior to that, Mr. Lewis worked for RBC Capital Markets as a Financial Analyst in corporate fixed income derivative sales and covered clients in a variety of industries including real estate, telecommunications, and consumer products.
Mr. Lewis serves on the Next Generation Board of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Mr. Lewis received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Washington University in St. Louis. Mr. Lewis holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Derek Lopez
Chief Investment Officer - GRPMr. Lopez joined GEM in 2017 and is the Chief Investment Officer of GEM Realty Properties. On behalf of GEM Realty Properties, Mr. Lopez directs the investment process, manages the acquisitions team, and sources private-market real estate opportunities. Additionally, Mr. Lopez serves on the Investment Committee where he is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Lopez was an International Director and Head of U.S. Acquisitions at LaSalle Investment Management, where he oversaw the sourcing, underwriting, and execution processes for U.S. investments. Mr. Lopez also served on LaSalle’s North American Private Equity Investment and Allocation Committees. Prior to joining LaSalle in 2005, Mr. Lopez was a member of the mergers and acquisitions group at J.P. Morgan Chase.
Mr. Lopez serves as the Board Chair of Cradles to Crayons Chicago. Mr. Lopez received a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, where he was a Toigo Fellow, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University.
Barry Malkin
Senior Managing Partner, Executive Chairman - GRPMr. Malkin co-founded GEM in 1994 and is a Senior Managing Partner. Mr. Malkin serves on the Executive Committee where he oversees corporate strategy and acts as an Executive Chairman of GEM Realty Properties, advising on broad platform strategy and investment themes. Mr. Malkin previously served as the Chief Investment Officer of GEM Realty Properties. Additionally, as a member of the Investment Committee, Mr. Malkin is involved in setting firmwide investment strategy. Mr. Malkin is also a member of GEM’s Valuation Committee.
Prior to GEM, Mr. Malkin was a Vice President at JMB Realty Corporation where he was involved with such projects as the initial public offering of Urban Shopping Centers, Inc. and the sale of JMB’s institutional advisory business. Prior to that, Mr. Malkin was a Vice President in the restructuring group at JMB International in London and worked in the corporate finance department of Kidder, Peabody & Co.
Mr. Malkin is a board member of the Holocaust Educational Foundation of Northwestern University and serves on the Board of Trustees for Tulane University. Mr. Malkin received a Master of Management from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University.
Casey McGuire
Senior AccountantMr. McGuire joined GEM in 2019 and is a Senior Accountant. In this role, Mr. McGuire focuses primarily on financial reporting for GEM Realty Properties.
Mr. McGuire received a Master of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University.
Sagar Panchal
AssociateMr. Panchal joined GEM in 2023 and is an Associate in Trading Operations for GEM Realty Securities. In this role, Mr. Panchal is involved in the daily functions of the middle and back office.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Panchal was a Senior Consultant in the Hedge Fund Services group at Northern Trust. Prior to that, Mr. Panchal was an ETS Account Manager at Bloomberg.
Mr. Panchal received a Bachelor of Arts from New York University.
Rich Petersen, CPA
Senior Vice PresidentMr. Petersen joined GEM in 2012 and is a Senior Vice President focused on capital raising and investor relations. Prior to this role, Mr. Petersen was an Accounting Manager.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Petersen was a Senior Associate in external audit at KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Mr. Petersen received a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Mr. Petersen is a Certified Public Accountant (Inactive).
Joseph Popielarz
AssociateJake Randle
AssociateMr. Randle joined GEM in 2022 and is an Associate on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Randle is primarily focused on underwriting private-market real estate opportunities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Randle was an Acquisitions Associate at Heitman, where he focused on evaluating investment opportunities across various sectors.
Mr. Randle received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame.
Levi Richards
Securities TraderMr. Richards joined GEM in 2022 and is a Securities Trader for GEM Realty Securities. In this role, Mr. Richards is responsible for executing trades as well as tracking, valuing, and monitoring the availability of positions in the market.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Richards was a Trader at Milliman Financial Risk Management. Prior to that, Mr. Richards was a Market Maker at Consolidated Trading.
Mr. Richards received a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Psychology from the University of Michigan.
Nick Roseth, CPA
Senior Tax AccountantMr. Roseth joined GEM in 2021 and is a Senior Tax Accountant. In this role, Mr. Roseth focuses primarily on tax compliance, projections, REIT testing, and transfer pricing for GEM Realty Properties and GEM Realty Securities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Roseth was a Senior Associate at KPMG, where he focused on tax return preparation and review.
Mr. Roseth received a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Accounting from Indiana University. Mr. Roseth is a Certified Public Accountant.
Erin Rubin
Accounting ManagerMs. Rubin joined GEM in July 2013 and is an Accounting Manager. In this role, Ms. Rubin primarily focuses on portfolio accounting for GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Rubin was a Federal Tax Associate at KPMG in the real estate tax group.
Ms. Rubin received a Master of Accounting Science and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Indiana University.
Kedar Satyanand, CFA
AssociateMr. Satyanand joined GEM in 2023 and is an Associate on the GEM Realty Securities investment team. In this role, Mr. Satyanand is responsible for various research initiatives that support investment idea generation.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Satyanand was a Research Analyst in the global public markets group at Fiducient Advisors.
Mr. Satyanand received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Northwestern University and a Certificate in Financial Economics from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Mr. Satyanand holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Andreea Sav
Senior Accounting ManagerMs. Sav joined GEM in June 2011 and is a Senior Accounting Manager. In this role, Ms. Sav primarily focuses on portfolio accounting for GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Sav worked for RSM McGladrey as part of their outsourced financial reporting group servicing GEM Realty Properties.
Ms. Sav received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from DePaul University.
Johnathon Schmidt
AssociateMr. Schmidt joined GEM in 2022 and is an Associate on the asset management team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Schmidt supports both asset and portfolio-level management of GEM’s private-market real estate investments.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Schmidt was an Asset Management Analyst at PGIM Real Estate, where he covered office assets.
Mr. Schmidt serves on the Associate Board of VOCEL. Mr. Schmidt received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University.
Tim Schneider, CPA
AnalystMr. Schneider joined GEM in 2022 and is an Analyst focused on capital raising and investor relations.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Schneider was an Associate at RSM in the financial services risk consulting practice.
Mr. Schneider received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Mr. Schneider is a Certified Public Accountant.
Jai Shah, CPA
Tax DirectorMr. Shah joined GEM in 2016 and is the Tax Director. In this role, Mr. Shah is responsible for tax compliance and projections. Mr. Shah is also a co-chair of GEM’s Diversity & Inclusion Steering Committee.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Shah served as a Federal Tax Manager in KPMG’s real estate practice.
Mr. Shah received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Certificate Degree in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Mr. Shah is a Certified Public Accountant.
Megan Sheiker, CPA
Vice PresidentMs. Sheiker joined GEM in 2023 and is a Vice President in corporate finance. In this role, Ms. Sheiker primarily focuses on corporate financial budgeting, projections, and reporting, as well as strategic operations initiatives.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Sheiker was an Assistant Controller in corporate accounting for Sterling Bay, where she led financial accounting and budgeting processes, software transitions, and management reporting. Prior to that, Ms. Sheiker was an Assistant Vice President at Redwood Capital Group, where she oversaw accounting and financial reporting processes for the property management business.
Ms. Sheiker serves on the Young Professionals Board of Hope Chicago. Ms. Sheiker received a Master of Business Administration with concentrations in Finance and Management from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University. Ms. Sheiker is a Certified Public Accountant.
Mary Sheridan, CPA
Director of Financial ReportingMs. Sheridan joined GEM in 2003 and is the Director of Financial Reporting. In this role, Ms. Sheridan oversees the preparation and review processes for financial statements, investor statements, and management reports.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Sheridan was a Vice President of Accounting at Urban Retail Properties. Prior to that, Ms. Sheridan was an Auditor for Altschuler Melvoin & Glasser in the real estate group.
Ms. Sheridan received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Illinois State University. Ms. Sheridan is a Certified Public Accountant.
Jaclyn Sliger
Senior AccountantMs. Sliger joined GEM in 2022 and is a Senior Accountant. In this role, Ms. Sliger primarily focuses on financial reporting for GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Sliger was a Property Accountant at Extra Space Storage.
Ms. Sliger serves on the Associate Board of Erie Family Health. Ms. Sliger received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Lake Superior State University.
Bill Smith
Chief Information OfficerMr. Smith joined GEM in 2014 and is the Chief Information Officer. In this role, Mr. Smith primarily focuses on technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and the overall management of the information technology team.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Smith was a Vice President of infrastructure at GCM Grosvenor. Prior to that, Mr. Smith held roles at several industry-leading firms including McKinsey & Co., Heitman Financial, and JMB Realty Corporation.
Mr. Smith received an Associate Degree in Computer Business Systems from Robert Morris University Illinois and served in the U.S. Army.
Eric Sotelo
Senior AccountantMr. Sotelo joined GEM in 2021 and is a Senior Accountant. In this role, Mr. Sotelo focuses primarily on financial reporting for GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Sotelo was an Audit and Tax Senior Associate at CBIZ and focused on the real estate industry.
Mr. Sotelo received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Dominican University.
Shelley Storer
Executive AssistantMs. Storer joined GEM in 2022 and is an Executive Assistant supporting senior members of GEM’s Leadership and acquisitions team.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Storer was an Executive Assistant at Bain Capital where she supported the investor relations group.
Ms. Storer received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Framingham State University.
Sarah Thompson
Head of People & CultureMs. Thompson joined GEM in 2023 and is the Head of People & Culture. In this role, Ms. Thompson oversees GEM’s broader human resources function, including professional development, talent management, and talent acquisition, as well as co-leading GEM’s Diversity & Inclusion Initiative.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Thompson was the Vice President of Talent Development at Antares Capital. Prior to that, Ms. Thompson held leadership roles at Cboe Global Markets and CME Group in human resources.
Ms. Thompson received a Master of Arts in International Economic Development from American University and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Missouri - Kansas City.
Milan Tica
Senior Vice PresidentMr. Tica joined GEM in 2016 and is a Senior Vice President on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Tica coordinates acquisition due diligence efforts, participates in investment term negotiations, and sources private-market real estate opportunities.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Tica was an Analyst at Ventas Inc., where he focused on the development and acquisition of healthcare properties.
Mr. Tica received a Master of Management Studies from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University.
Kevin Wade, CPA
ControllerMr. Wade joined GEM in August 2011 and is a Controller. In this role, Mr. Wade oversees corporate financial reporting and portfolio accounting for GEM Realty Properties.
Mr. Wade received a Master of Accounting Science and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Mr. Wade is a Certified Public Accountant.
Ellie Walsh
Accounting ManagerMs. Walsh joined GEM in June 2014 and is an Accounting Manager. In this role, Ms. Walsh primarily focuses on portfolio accounting for GEM Realty Properties.
Ms. Walsh received a Master of Accounting Science and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Eva Wassermann
Senior Managing DirectorMs. Wassermann joined GEM in 2012 and is a Senior Managing Director on the acquisitions team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Ms. Wassermann sources and underwrites investments in the lodging sector and engages with GEM’s hotel asset management.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Wassermann was the Principal of State Parkway Advisory, an investment and consulting firm focused on both hotel acquisitions and asset management. Prior to that, Ms. Wassermann was a Vice President for Hilton and held management roles with Strategic Hotels & Resorts, the Yarmouth Group, Kenneth Leventhal & Co., and Laventhol & Horwath.
Ms. Wassermann received a Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant & Travel Management from California Polytechnic University - Pomona.
Nicholas Wilson
AssociateMr. Wilson joined GEM in 2022 and is an Associate on the asset management team for GEM Realty Properties. In this role, Mr. Wilson supports both asset and portfolio-level management of GEM’s private-market real estate investments.
Prior to joining GEM, Mr. Wilson was a Senior Analyst at Rialto Capital, where he was responsible for asset management within their debt platform.
Mr. Wilson received a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.
Stephanie Wong
Senior AccountantMs. Wong joined GEM in September 2016 and is a Senior Accountant. In this role, Ms. Wong focuses primarily on corporate financial reporting as well as financial reporting for GEM Realty Properties.
Prior to joining GEM, Ms. Wong was an Assurance Associate at Ernst & Young.
Ms. Wong received a Master of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.