Honolulu, Hawaii/USA

Sarah Lee Morihara has been named president and managing director of Colliers Monroe Friedlander. She will oversee the real estate company’s property management and brokerage divisions.

She joined the company in 2003 and most recently was senior vice president.

Morihara, 35, was born in Honolulu and graduated from Waipahu High School. She received a bachelor’s degree in international business from the University of Denver and a juris doctor degree from the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law.

Why I took this job: It was a natural evolution. I joined Colliers as corporate counsel and my responsibilities grew when I became senior vice president. Soon, I was managing the firm’s operational and administrative matters and becoming involved in strategic goals, which led to my current position.

Like most about the job: Every day brings a new experience and challenge — a new proposal for property management services, assisting with a lease or sale transaction, or dealing with budget or operational issues. The variety keeps things exciting.

Like least about the job: Personnel matters are difficult because we are a close-knit company. In some circumstances, issues become emotional; it is a continuous learning process to best deal with and manage these issues.

Immediate priority: Our people are Colliers’ greatest asset so we work tirelessly to build and maintain a strong, cohesive team in an environment that supports and rewards individual growth.

Long-term challenge: Continuing to grow the company and ensuring that we provide the best real estate services and solutions.

Strategy to overcome the challenge: Retaining and fostering growth in our people, finding and recruiting more talent, and continuously working to provide the best training possible.

Five-year vision for the industry: Given current economic conditions, we anticipate the immediate future to be a relatively slow period as compared to the boom experienced over the past few years. However, the market is cyclical and there are always business opportunities.

Essential business philosophy: Every member of the team plays a valuable role and must be recognized for their contributions. Their loyalty and dedication is what brings success and sustainability to the company.

Best way to keep a competitive edge: Keep learning! I have the good fortune of having great mentors at Colliers, each with their own unique style. I learn from them on a daily basis. We also find ways to create learning opportunities for each person in the office, and content ranges from real estate-related information to personal development. The more everyone learns, the more successful we will be.

Most important lesson learned: Communicate, communicate, communicate. I’ve found that by communicating, you exchange ideas, explore options, understand different positions and philosophies, and address concerns that may otherwise be overlooked.

Most overlooked secret to success: Maintaining a positive attitude in combination with a good work ethic.

Issue that keeps me up at night: My “list.” What’s on the calendar tomorrow? Whom do I need to call? Do we have enough milk? Are the kids’ bags packed for school?

One rule I live by: Find humor in each day and smile! It makes a world of difference for you and those around you.

Most important mentor: I am honored to work with and learn from Donald Monroe. He has shown me that being successful means having a strong work ethic and conducting yourself with integrity without forgetting the importance of balancing work and family.

Favorite stress reducer: Walking. The kids (Kade, 6, and Paige, 4) and I walk around the mall, walk around the neighborhood, walk to get ice cream. It really helps me to unwind and I always find that the kids share the most interesting thoughts while we are on our little journeys.

Favorite way to spend free time: On the rocking chair sandwiched between the kids reading them stories. It is even better when they decide to read to me!

Books by my bedside: “Pillars of the Earth.” I am a huge Ken Follett fan. Right next to that is “Homework Without Tears” by Lee Canter, which will, hopefully, provide some parental sanity.

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About Colliers International

Colliers International is a global affiliation of independently owned commercial real estate firms. The organization's 10,092 employees span the world in 267 offices in 57 countries. On a worldwide basis, Colliers manages 672,945,918 square feet, and has revenue of $US 1,620,958,349.

Contact Information

For further information please contact Andrew D. Friedlander at 808.523.9797 or via email at andrew@colliershawaii.com or Mike Y. Hamasu at 808.523.9792 or via email at mike@colliershawaii.com.

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