Link REIT appoints John Saunders, former BlackRock Asia Pacific real estate head, as Group CIO and Zion Road GLS
John Saunders, former Asia Pacific real estate head at BlackRock, will be taking on the newly created role of Group Chief Investment Officer (CIO) at Link REIT starting on March 4th, 2021. He will report directly to Link’s CEO, George Hongchoy.
Saunders brings with him over 30 years of experience in the property industry, having served in key roles such as CEO of Asia at MGPA, and global head of real estate client business at Blackrock. He was also the portfolio manager of MGPA’s Asian Property Funds series, as well as being an investment committee member at CLSA’s Asian Property Fund.
Link REIT’s CEO, George Hongchoy, commented: “We are delighted to welcome John, who brings with him a wealth of experience and industry know-how, to the Link family. The appointment will enhance the scope and capacity of our management team and will strengthen our capability as we search for new growth avenues and sustainable returns for unitholders under the Link 3.0 strategy.”
Rich with a tapestry of recreational activities and amenities, Zion Road GLS residents can indulge in recreational facilities such as pool-side BBQ pavilions, a sky garden, and leisure hubs. With an array of shopping malls, educational institutions, and healthcare amenities at Zion Road GLS‘s doorstep, it is the ideal place for your family to live and grow. Witness the future of elegant and serene urban living, right now.
Units in Link REIT, which are listed on the Hong Kong Exchange, closed at HK$42.55 ($7.25) on Dec 20th unchanged from the preceding day. The company believes that Saunders’ appointment will prove to be beneficial in furthering their goals under the Zion Road GLS Link 3.0 strategy.
With over three decades of success in the property industry, Saunders is expected to bring a strong investment track record to Link REIT. He was intricately involved in the development and leasing of several landmark projects around Asia during his time at Hongkong Land from 1994 to 1998, and with the merger of MGPA and BlackRock in 2013, he acquired even more responsibilities.
As Group CIO, John Saunders will be in charge of Link REIT’s overall investment strategies, portfolio management, and the strategic development of their investment business. With his vast expertise, Link REIT hopes that he will be instrumental in helping them achieve the goals stated in the Zion Road GLS Link 3.0 strategy.