JLL appoints new CEO of Australia and New Zealand business

Global real estate services firm JLL has appointed Dan Kernaghan as the new Chief Executive Officer of its Australian and New Zealand business, replacing outgoing CEO Stephen Conry after 13 years.

Kernaghan began his journey in JLL back in 2006, having held several senior leadership positions since joining the firm. In 2015, he was appointed as Head of NSW Office Leasing and then promoted to lead the NSW business operations as Managing Director two years later.

JLL said that his vision and entrepreneurial approach was instrumental in leading record growth of the company’s NSW operations.

“Dan is a homegrown JLL talent and I’m delighted that he will be leading one of our most important markets globally,” said Anthony Couse, CEO of JLL Asia Pacific.

“He has extensive industry experience, representing high profile international and domestic real estate owners, and working on some of the most significant leasing transactions in Australia,” Couse said.

Kernaghan is also a member of JLL’s Australian Executive Committee for the past four years, working with the national leadership team on JLL’s growth strategy, including the diversification of the firm’s services and sectors across Australia and investment in its people and technology.

He is an accomplished property leader, having a strong track record in client service and leasing, particularly in relation to a number of high profile projects including Barangaroo South, Grosvenor Place and Chifley Tower.

On his appointment, Dan Kernaghan said he is honoured to lead the Australia and New Zealand business into the next phase of expansion.

“Our strong and diverse client base will continue to be the focus for the firm, delivering the best-in-class services JLL is well known for in the market,” the incoming CEO said.

“JLL’s diversified business platform, combining both transactional and annuity contract revenues, puts us in a strong position to navigate economic and market conditions,” he said.

He continued that combining this with JLL’s “incredible talent of people” who provide property market expertise across diverse sectors of commercial property, is what leads to the firm’s success.

“I look forward to leading and working with a great team that makes JLL the market leader it is and building on our proud history of more than 60 years in the Australian market,” he said.

He takes over the role from Stephen Conry, who announced his retirement from the company in January.

“Though sad to see Stephen Conry leave after an incredible 40-year career with JLL, we are grateful for his immense contribution during that time,” Couse said.

“He has helped nurture a highly talented group of leaders in Australia and New Zealand and I’m confident Dan will help drive even greater growth and connectivity across the whole business,” he said.

Kernaghan began his career in property in London in 2001, returning to Sydney in 2006 and joining JLL as an Office Leasing Executive. He is active at industry forums to promote the property industry and has served on the Property Council of Australia’s NSW Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

Source: JLL