Meet The Team
Experienced Ownership. Focused Execution.

Lewis Barbanel
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
Lewis Barbanel leads Barberry Rose Realty with the perspective of a third-generation real estate owner and nearly four decades of hands-on industry experience. As Founder and President, he provides the strategic direction behind the firm's acquisitions, investment philosophy, and long-term growth while fostering a culture built on integrity, collaboration, and disciplined decision-making.
Known for his thoughtful leadership and practical approach, Lewis encourages his team to think like owners, evaluate opportunities objectively, and focus on creating long-term value rather than pursuing short-term trends. His willingness to share knowledge, mentor colleagues, and remain actively engaged throughout the acquisition and management process has earned him the respect of both his team and industry peers.
Whether evaluating new investments, strengthening relationships with capital partners, or guiding the firm's continued growth, Lewis believes that great companies are built by surrounding yourself with talented people, empowering them to succeed, and leading with consistency through every market cycle.

Azi Graeber
VICE PRESIDENT, REAL ESTATE & CAPITAL TRANSACTIONS
Azi Graeber is a senior real estate executive with more than 15 years of experience across property management, underwriting, financial analysis, valuation, acquisitions, dispositions, and capital transactions. As Vice President of Real Estate & Capital Transactions, he supports acquisition structuring, capital strategy, transaction execution, lease and rent roll review, and financial modeling for Barberry Rose Realty’s commercial real estate platform.
His background connects operational property management with investment analysis, giving the team a practical lens on how a property performs before, during, and after acquisition.

Tess Rubel
DIRECTOR OF FINANCIAL STRATEGY & LEASING OPERATIONS
Tess Rubel is the Director of Financial Strategy & Leasing Operations with experience spanning both corporate finance and real estate operations. Prior to joining the real estate industry, she worked in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) for a Fortune 500 Insurance company, where she specialized in budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and strategic planning. This foundation provides her with a unique analytical perspective that she brings to every aspect of property operations and leasing.
In her current role, Tess oversees leasing operations, financial strategy, lease administration, and tenant relations, helping to drive operational efficiency and support long-term portfolio performance. She works closely with ownership, tenants, and internal teams to navigate complex leasing transactions, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional service.
Known for her detail-oriented approach and commitment to building strong relationships, Tess combines financial expertise with a practical understanding of real estate operations. Her ability to translate data into actionable insights helps support informed decision-making and contributes to the continued growth and success of the organization.

Panos Papadoniou
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SUPPORT
Panos supports property management operations on a part-time basis, helping coordinate tenant communication, maintenance response, property conditions, and operating needs across selected retail assets.

Celeste Wischerth
FINANCE / BOOKKEEPING
Celeste Wischerth is the head Bookkeeper at BRM Development, Inc., which she joined in 2008. She has extensive experience in many administrative positions, accounting, and financial reporting.
