Lisa Wood has joined retail specialist United Property Service (UPS) to lead its new asset management business, as it strives to provide a holistic, client-centric service offering. 

Wood brings more than 20 years of specialist property management experience, previously at AXA Investment Managers as Senior Asset Manager, Real Assets. 

The firm has also secured key managements including retail podiums at Novotel Canberra and Novotel Sydney Olympic Park.  

Wood, who is based in Sydney, told ANZPJ that there had been a gap in the market for retail owners and developers that wanted a more holistic approach.  

For example, Wood said during her time at AXA Investment Managers, she had struggled to find a service offering that covered everything from leasing to space redesigns to asset management.   

Wood, who has also held senior positions at Stockland, CapitaLand and Westfield, said as we emerged from a pandemic era, we had the opportunity to shape a new landscape. 

The move builds on the firm’s existing offering, spanning retail leasing, advisory, design management, place strategy and asset management. 

UPS Founder and Director Patrick Sergi said they were focused on working with retail owners and developers to create destinations where customers felt connected and stayed longer.   

“Retail has always evolved, it is just evolving faster than ever before meaning the old retail property rulebook is out,” Sergi said.  

“We believe over the next decade you’ll see the design of some of the world’s best retail experiences in the world here in Australia – as innovative landlords, developers and heritage assets adapt to this new retail world.”  

UPS has led the retail design and leasing process at The Rocks precinct near Sydney’s CBD and Brookfield Place in Wynyard.  

The talent drain for experienced professionals in the retail property sector remains a big factor holding back the industry at this time.  

“Our employees, and their deep experience and passion for what they do, are the reason we’ve enjoyed the success with our clients over the years, despite the challenges posed by the recent business climate,” Sergi said.   

“While the industry faces many challenges, as a firm we’re excited and see this period as an opportunity for owners to excel and adapt their retail assets, setting a new standard for Australian retail precincts. 

“Lisa’s appointment adds additional strength to our already outstanding property team.  

“The expansion into asset management is a key piece in our comprehensive client-centric offering for our clients and Lisa’s wealth of experience will offer our clients some of the best thinking from around the globe.”