Her Story
About Sara
Sara Sicilian is the Founder of Sara Sicilian Advisory, a fractional COO and consulting firm specializing in property management and real estate development companies. With more than 12 years of experience in operations leadership, Sara helps high-growth founders and organizations build efficient systems, optimize workflows, and scale their businesses with greater clarity and sustainability. Her advisory practice focuses on bringing structure and strategic direction to complex operations while incorporating a strong commitment to wellness, mindfulness, and preventing burnout.
Sara’s career journey began in healthcare as a Speech-Language Pathologist, where she earned her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Northeastern University and provided care in hospital settings, including supporting survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing. Over time, her passion for problem-solving, leadership, and organizational improvement led her to transition into business operations. At Newman Properties, she progressed from Administrative Assistant to Business Manager and ultimately Chief Operating Officer, where she spent more than seven years leading operational strategies, improving processes, and supporting the company’s growth in property management and real estate development.
Throughout her career, Sara has demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to empowering others. One of her most significant professional accomplishments was growing her organization while navigating personal challenges, including her IVF journey, which ultimately resulted in the expansion of both her family and her professional success. She credits the guidance of two influential mentors, one who encouraged independence and learning through challenges and another who emphasized mentorship and women’s empowerment, for shaping her leadership philosophy. Sara continues to give back through her service as a Board Member for South Boston Community Health Center and her dedication to professional development, including her recent Reiki certification and interest in pursuing ADHD coaching certification. Through Sara Sicilian Advisory, she remains committed to helping leaders create stronger businesses, healthier teams, and sustainable paths for growth.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sara
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the influence of two very different but equally impactful mentors who shaped my leadership approach. One mentor taught me the importance of independence, resilience, and learning from failure, encouraging me to take ownership of challenges and grow through experience. Another emphasized the value of mentorship, support, and empowering women to recognize their strengths and achieve their goals. These lessons have guided my own leadership style, and I hope I have been able to serve as a mentor to others by investing in their growth and development. Throughout my career at Newman Properties, I have had the opportunity to hire and train many team members, helping them build confidence, develop their skills, and succeed professionally.
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are resilience, perseverance, adaptability, and commitment. My journey into real estate development began in an unconventional way through a part-time opportunity during graduate school more than 12 years ago, which ultimately became the foundation for my career. One of my proudest achievements has been navigating significant personal challenges, including my IVF journey, while continuing to grow and lead the company. During a period of rapid expansion, our portfolio tripled in size within a year, and I transitioned from a business manager role into a C-level position. That experience reinforced the importance of determination, balance, and embracing challenges with confidence. I am grateful that both my professional growth and personal journey have flourished, and I continue to be guided by the values of hard work, resilience, and dedication to those around me.
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