How Do I Choose a Certification Program for My Building?

Benjamin L. Shinewald is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Building Owners and Managers Association of Canada (BOMA Canada).  Under Benjamin’s leadership, the organization’s flagship program, BOMA BEST, has grown dramatically, with 3,500 certifications in Canada and a growing number overseas, all driven in deep partnership with BOMA International.  BOMA BEST provides the world’s leading operational certification for the commercial real estate industry across both sustainable and smart-buildings verticals.  Beyond setting the industry standard, BOMA BEST also provides ongoing, cost-effective pathways for operational improvement over time.  BOMA Canada is also a worldwide leader in producing thought leadership, advocating for the industry and driving partnerships of all manner, as well as hosting BOMEX, Canada’s leading property management conference and much more. 

Prior to joining BOMA Canada in 2012, Benjamin served as the CEO of Canadian Jewish Congress.  Earlier, he worked in the Privy Council Office and practiced law at Torys LLP. Benjamin previously served as a Law Clerk to the Chief Justice of Israel, worked at the Canadian Mission to the OECD in Paris and worked for the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club.  He lives with his family in Toronto and is active in the community in his spare time.    

Manager of Building Systems and Sustainability for BGO (BentallGreenOak) in Vancouver, BC, Christopher is a current BOMA Member and BC Hydro Energy Manager with more than five years of experience collaborating with a team of property managers on a portfolio of more than 40 properties. Christopher's work focuses on property certification, system decarbonization, and meeting net-zero emissions targets.  

Susan Hammer is a BOMA Fellow and founder and managing principal of Hammer4 Real Estate Services leveraging her 40 years of property management experience and expertise to benefit the real estate industry.  Susan led her property team to a BOMA International Outstanding Building of the Year award (TOBY) in the Over 1 million Square Feet category and continues to partner with BOMA International, local BOMA Associations, and property teams on the BOMA 360 and TOBY programs.

Hakan Ozsancak is Vice President Association Services & Publications at BOMA International. He oversees membership growth, working closely with all BOMA affiliates, growing BOMA’s building recognition programs; the 360, BOMA BEST, and the Toby’s. Hakan also is in charge of BOMA International’s editorial coverage, including short and long term articles, as well as its thought leadership such as the deep dives and how to handbooks. In addition, Hakan is the staff liaison to BOMA International’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion + Committee. He is a father of two girls, one with special needs. He advocates for disability rights and is an active DEI+ advocate!