JLL marks 40 years in New Zealand with strong performance, new leadership, and renewed investment

AUCKLAND, 14 May 2026 – When JLL opened its New Zealand office in 1986, it was one of the first global real estate firms to establish a permanent presence in the country. That early entry helped introduce international capability and specialist advice to a market that was then far less connected to global capital and best practice.

Forty years on, JLL is marking its anniversary in New Zealand at a time of strong performance both globally and locally.

The firm recently reported a record first quarter worldwide, delivering revenue of US$6.4 billion and growth across advisory, leasing, capital markets, workplace, and project management services. That momentum is reflected in New Zealand, where JLL has also recorded strong Q1 revenue results, supported by activity across a range of sectors.

“This milestone is about more than longevity,” said Todd Lauchlan, Managing Director of JLL New Zealand. “Being one of the first global real estate businesses in New Zealand meant we helped shape the market from an early stage. Today, our role is to bring international perspective and specialist expertise to support clients as conditions continue to evolve.” 

The anniversary year also reflects significant investment in leadership across the region and locally. Selina Short has recently been appointed Chief Executive Officer for Australia and New Zealand having joined JLL from EY.

“Selina brings deep industry experience and a strong focus on clients, people, data and AI, and long-term value,” Lauchlan said. “Her leadership provides clarity and confidence for our teams and our clients at a time when the property sector is navigating ongoing change.”

In New Zealand, JLL has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Damon Pere to lead its Value and Risk Advisory business. Pere returns to New Zealand later this year after more than five years in London with JLL, where he led hotel and long income valuation work across the United Kingdom, Ireland and Benelux.

“Bringing global expertise back into New Zealand is a real advantage for our clients,” Lauchlan says. “Damon’s experience reinforces the depth of capability we can offer at a time when valuation accuracy and risk insight are critical.”

JLL continues to invest in its New Zealand business, including a new Auckland office fit out currently underway, designed to support collaboration, client engagement and flexible working.

Later this month, JLL will host its annual Future of Real Estate event as part of its 40-year celebrations, providing a forum for industry leaders to explore how global forces such as technology, sustainability, demographic change, and capital flows are shaping New Zealand’s property markets.

After 40 years of operating through multiple market cycles, JLL’s focus remains on helping clients make informed property decisions through trusted advice, global insight and deep local knowledge.