James Sipprell

I am a senior finance professional with a broad range of experience, proven strengths in financial, operational, and team leadership, and a niche expertise in real estate. My knowledge stems from more than 20 years of experience in the real estate and restaurant industry, where I wore many hats and learned the true meaning of “doing what it takes to get the job done.” I hired and managed teams, analyzed markets, controlled costs, and proved my ability to sustain profitable business—even in the toughest of economic climates.

Along the way, I acquired responsibilities and knowledge in real estate acquisition and management, found my true passion, and soon earned my broker’s license. Now, in addition to my current role as a Real Estate Accounting Supervisor, I maintain a personal real estate business in which I consult on residential real estate.

The key to my success lies in few core skills …

I have been told that I have a natural gift for customer service and react in a way that reverses conflict, enhances team performance, and improves productivity. Years in the restaurant industry taught me how to immediately build rapport, quickly solve problems, and continuously satisfy customers. I am comfortable communicating with all levels of people, and consider myself an expert listener. Building genuine relationships is a priority in all areas of my professional life.

I can prioritize and complete multiple tasks under high pressure and strict timelines. For St. Paul Development Corporation, I effectively filled three distinct roles, and was eventually replaced by several highly skilled professionals. Six-day work weeks are my norm!

Additionally, I have developed a diverse skill set that can be effectively applied to all aspects of general business management. I have managed accounting, marketing, and human resources functions, and I understand the laws and conversations that govern business.

What I Do

Real Estate Accounting Manager

Lead standardization, process optimization, and change management for an accounting team of 16. Coach and mentor team, oversee portfolio details including lease, loan, operating, and legal documents. Control quality by reviewing annual budgets, forecasts, financial reporting, and schedules. Initiate communication and collaboration throughout project managers, technology teams, and client representatives to identify improvement opportunities for employee performance, customer relationship management, cash-flow analysis, tax preparation, and financial reporting. Manage annual budget planning, forecasts, and CAM reconciliations.

Real Estate Broker

I currently am a Real Estate Broker with the Minneapolis Association of Realtors. I currently serve the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota Area.

Video Content Creator

I currently work with the Adobe Creative Suite to create videos for marketing real estate. Video projects include Drone Photography, 360 Virtual Tours, and Real Estate Commercials.

Real Estate Consulting

I am able to leverage my 20+ years in real estate accounting to consult on lease negotiations, financial planning, estate planning, and budgeting.

Podcaster

I host a real estate podcast that provides real estate market information and content that helps buyers/sellers with the purchase or sale of their next home. Visit www.realestateresource.org

Testimonials

Resume

20+ Years of Experience

Experience

2020
Ryan Companies U.S. Inc.

Real Estate Accounting Manager

Lead standardization, process optimization, and change management for an accounting team of 16. Coach and mentor team, oversee portfolio details including lease, loan, operating, and legal documents. Control quality by reviewing annual budgets, forecasts, financial reporting, and schedules. Initiate communication and collaboration throughout project managers, technology teams, and client representatives to identify improvement opportunities for employee performance, customer relationship management, cash-flow analysis, tax preparation, and financial reporting. Manage annual budget planning, forecasts, and CAM reconciliations.

  • Engaged with the Process Improvement Project Team to develop and prioritize PI strategies. Introduced and implemented proven programs and processes from previous experience.
  • Improved business continuity and mitigated risk by setting learning goals and partnering new employees with senior staff. Instituted information sharing and collaboration throughout all teams.
  • Streamlined and customized financial packages; created value add opportunities for various business units through fixed asset additions.
  • Strengthened customer relationships as the first point of client contact. Established solid relationships and connected account supervisors with customers. Managed all value-add properties.
2012
CBRE Inc.

Real Estate Accounting Manager

Managed the creation and repair of monthly financial reporting packages for the commercial real estate portfolio of a publicly traded Fortune 500 Company. Portfolio included 433 Tenants, 5.6 million sq. ft. of commercial real estate, $90+ million in annual revenues, and assets valued at $500M+. Provided top-level review and approval in compliance with GAAP and corporate standards. Directed a team of nine senior accountants and two staff accountants. Established individual goals and supported career growth.

  • Exceeded all client expectations in accuracy, timelines, and service as the primary point of contact for client communications, information, and conflict resolution.
  • Promoted every employee one to three levels within three years. Trained accountants to manage workload at next-level capacity.
  • Award winner: Led the accounting team to achieve perfect audit scores. Defined standards and created a playbook outlining organizational structure in alignment with auditor requirements.
  • Reduced employee turnover by working with senior leadership to build better strategies for communication, cross-training, and service-driven leadership.
  • Designed and delivered a comprehensive leadership training program as a member of the Learning & Development Committee. Created a management tool kit to cultivate skills in delegation, time management, conflict resolution, employee motivation/burnout, and leadership in a growth-driven culture.
  • Project Managed the creation of professional video training commercials to roll out new initiatives. Designed a marketing tool to explain Artificial Intelligence and presented to global leadership.

 

2003
St. Paul Development Corporation

Financial Controller

Directly reporting to the CEO, managed accounting and property management for five corporations with multi-site restaurants. Conducted weekly, monthly, and annual financial reporting for general and senior management. Prepared consolidated enterprise financial statements and reconciliations of multiple bank accounts. Completed sales and U.S. tax filings, generated cash flow statements, oversaw accounts receivable and payable. Presented operational data to CEO and collaborated with senior management to analyze trends, project future earnings, and detect improvement and growth opportunities.

Education

2019
Bethel University

M.B.A - Finance

2013
Metropolitan State University

B.S. in Finance; Minor in Economics

Accounting Skills

Commercial Real Estate Expertise

98%

Process Optimization

95%

Quality Control

94%

Full Cycle Financial Reporting

99%

Cost Analysis

98%

Lease Accounting

95%

CAM Reconciliation

96%

Leadership Skills

Customer Service

98%

Project Management

93%

Training

90%

Human Resources

88%

Contact

Get in Touch

612-269-7325

Shoreview

Jim_Sipprell@msn.com

Real Estate Services Available

How Can I Help You?