Simon Townsend Appointed as CEO of Avison Young MENA

Avison Young, a global leader in real estate advisory services, is pleased to announce Simon Townsend as the new Chief Executive Officer for its operations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, effective from March 2024.

Based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Townsend’s appointment signals a strategic move by Avison Young to strengthen its leadership team and bolster its presence in the MENA markets.

Simon Townsend brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the real estate sector. Prior to joining Avison Young, Townsend held the position of CEO at Ellington Capital Limited in Dubai, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills.

His extensive background also includes senior roles at leading real estate firms such as CBRE, where he served as a Senior Director, and Cushman & Wakefield (formerly DTZ), as a Senior Director for the Middle East. Townsend’s tenure at BARWA Real Estate Group and The First Investor, among others, has equipped him with a profound understanding of real estate investment and advisory services, making him an asset to Avison Young’s ambitious growth plans in the region.

Avison Young stands as a beacon in the commercial real estate industry, committed to creating value and positive impact through its economic, social, and environmental initiatives. With a global footprint and a dedicated team that combines local market expertise with advanced technology, Avison Young is uniquely positioned to offer competitive advantages to its clients. As a private company, Avison Young emphasizes collaboration and partnership, ensuring that its clients receive personalized and empowered service.