THE Property Council of Australia has elected a new national president in QIC Real Estate’s managing director, Michael O’Brien.
O’Brien has more than 30 years of experience across the property industry, including at QIC where he heads up real estate investment and business strategy.
“It is a privilege to be elected by my industry peers to this important role, and to represent an industry that creates more jobs for Australians than any other. The property sector shapes how we live, how we work, and our opportunities, and it underpins the strength of our economy, providing jobs in every city, region and town in Australia,” said O’Brien.
“I look forward to promoting our thought leadership on real solutions to Australia’s housing, planning, investment and net zero challenges. As a Property Champion of Change, I will also ensure the increasing and welcome diversity of our industry is reflected in our leadership on creating inclusive workforces and workplaces.”
O’Brien will succeed managing director and group CEO of Charter Hall, David Harrison, who has now concluded his two-year term.
“David successfully championed the industry and the Property Council through one of the most challenging periods in recent memory,” added O’Brien.
“David and our Board worked tirelessly so the sector could underpin Australia’s economic resilience through the pandemic, working with governments to keep tenants viable, to keep construction open, and to implement the confidence-creating HomeBuilder program. That contribution was at its greatest as the industry worked through the recovery and showed itself to be the engine room for job creation.”
Harrison will assume the role of Immediate Past President and will remain a member the Property Council board for a further two years in that capacity.
“David is a compelling leader. His insight and passion to advance the industry are remarkable,” said Mike Zorbas, chief executive at the Property Council.
“We are grateful for his impressive commitment and achievements on our behalf and will continue to prize both in the years ahead,
Managing director and CEO at Stockland, Tarun Gupta, alongside executive general manager of funds management, Deborah Coakley, were both elected as national vice presidents of the council.
