Savills has named Paul Roberts as its new Chief Executive Officer for Australia and New Zealand, marking a key leadership step as the business sharpens its focus on growth, connectivity and strategic alignment across the region.
With more than 20 years’ experience across institutional real estate, capital markets, and advisory, Mr Roberts brings a strong track record of commercial leadership and transaction execution to the role, which he starts in the global agency’s Sydney office on 15 July.
Having previously held roles with Knight Frank, Dexus and Lendlease, Mr Roberts has worked alongside some of the largest investors and property owners in the country, having been involved in high-value, highly complex deals.
His notable transactions include the $1.3 billion sale of a 66% interest in 55 Pitt Street, Sydney, the $630 million transaction of 201 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, and the $420 million Blue Tower & The Annex deal in Brisbane.
As CEO, Mr Roberts will lead Savills’ strategy, operations and performance in Australia and New Zealand, working closely with his counterparts across Asia Pacific and Savills’ global leadership in the UK.
“Savills has a long-standing reputation here in Australia, New Zealand, and globally, for client service, insight and professionalism, and I see enormous potential to build on that in the years ahead,” Mr Roberts said.
“There’s a strong team in place, and my focus will be on amplifying what’s working well, driving clarity in how we operate and building greater connection between our people, our clients and the Savills global network.”
Adding further strength to the agency’s strategic ambitions, Ben Schubert has been appointed Head of Capital Transactions and Advisory and brings more than two decades of experience to the role.
Mr Schubert has career transaction volumes exceeding $15 billion and has held previous roles with Knight Frank and the GPT Group.
He has an impressive track record leading some of the country’s most high-profile office transactions, including the sale of a 66% interest in 55 Pitt Street, Sydney ($1.3bn), 135 King Street, Sydney (~$600m), and a 50% interest in 101 Miller Street and Greenwood Plaza in North Sydney ($422m).
Martin Fidden, CEO of Savills Asia Pacific, expressed confidence in both appointments.
“Paul brings deep market expertise, a strategic mindset, and a strong people focus to this role. His experience overseeing major deals and leading high-performing teams positions him well to build on the momentum already created across the AUNZ business,” Mr Fidden said.
Regarding Mr Schubert’s appointment, Mr Fidden added, “Ben’s arrival signals our strong global commitment to capital markets as the business enters a new phase of growth across Australia and New Zealand.
“Ben’s deep understanding of investor priorities, proven track record in high-value transactions, and ability to lead teams through evolving market cycles will be invaluable as the agency continues to grow its presence in a highly competitive landscape.”
