Supporting Link Logistics’ Florida Industrial Portfolio: A Property Management Director’s Take
Luci Smith brings more than 25 years of industrial real estate expertise to her position as a director on Link Logistics' Property Management team, responsible for warehouse properties in the Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami and Fort Lauderdale markets. Read on to learn how Luci, who is also the current chair and CEO of BOMA International, optimizes performance across the firm’s Florida portfolio while advancing industry leadership on a national scale.
What is your role in industrial property management at Link Logistics?
Luci: I’ve been with Link Logistics for more than five years, and it has truly been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. I lead and support our Property Management teams in Florida, ensuring we deliver best-in-class service to our customers while protecting and enhancing the long-term value of our assets. My role focuses on operational excellence, customer experience, team development and aligning day-to-day execution with Link Logistics’ broader strategic priorities.
I’m responsible for our industrial portfolios across Florida, including the Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami and Fort Lauderdale markets. Link Logistics properties in Florida range from bulk distribution and logistics facilities to last-mile and light industrial assets. Many of our buildings support high-volume warehouse, e-commerce, manufacturing and regional distribution operations, which keeps the work both dynamic and fast-paced.
What makes Florida such a strategic location for warehouse and distribution operations?
Luci: Florida is a growing market that is uniquely positioned for logistics and distribution needs. Its strong population growth, access to major ports, interstate connectivity and proximity to Latin America and global trade routes make it an ideal hub. Add in the continued growth of e-commerce and same-day delivery expectations, and Florida becomes a critical market for both regional and national supply chains.
What do you enjoy most about working in industrial real estate in Florida?
Luci: The most rewarding part of my work is the people! Helping customers succeed in their spaces and watching our property managers grow into confident leaders is incredibly fulfilling. The most challenging part is also what makes the work exciting: industrial real estate never slows down. Operations are mission-critical, timelines are tight, and expectations are high, which requires agility, strong communication and collaboration across teams.
I’ve also benefited greatly from industry involvement through BOMA International, and I’m grateful for Link Logistics’ support. I was sworn in as the chair and CEO of BOMA International last June - and I’m only the third woman to hold the position in the organization’s 120 years of existence. The broader perspective, leadership development and peer connections I gain through BOMA allow me to bring fresh ideas and best practices back to our teams and customers.
How has the industrial real estate sector evolved in recent years?
Luci: The sector has evolved dramatically. Warehouses have gone from being viewed as purely functional spaces to strategic assets that directly impact a company’s efficiency, labor force and customer experience. Technology, sustainability, data-driven decision-making and customer expectations have all elevated the role industrial real estate plays in business operations.
What skills are essential for professionals working with distribution centers and logistics properties?
Luci: Strong relationship-building skills, operational knowledge and the ability to anticipate issues before they become problems have been key. Equally important is understanding that no two customers operate the same way. Listening, staying curious and continuously learning - especially from vendor partners and industry peers - has made a significant difference throughout my career.
Can you share one of your Property Management team’s recent accomplishments?
Luci: One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is helping build and refine a training and development framework for our Property Management teams called “Intense Asset Management May” where my team visited more than 200 properties to connect with our customers. With the hot weather, we quickly learned that May in Florida is not the time for this exercise, so we’ll hold it in March this year. By focusing on real-world, hands-on learning and cross-functional collaboration, we’re investing in our people while strengthening the service we provide to Link Logistics customers. Seeing that growth translate into confidence and results is incredibly rewarding.
What makes Link Logistics’ culture and approach to industrial real estate unique?
Luci: What stands out most is Link Logistics’ commitment to people, both our customers and employees. There’s a genuine focus on doing things the right way, investing in talent, leveraging data and insights, and continuously improving how we operate. It’s a culture that values collaboration, accountability and long-term thinking.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Luci: Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, especially my grandchildren. I’m also an avid traveler and RV enthusiast and enjoy exploring new places whenever I can. Whether it’s a long road trip or a quick weekend getaway, travel gives me a chance to recharge my sun-powered soul and return to work with renewed energy and perspective.
