10/6/23

The Developer | The Power of Imagination in conversation with Robert Booth + John Brash

Robert Booth
Co-Founder & Managing Director
Ellington Properties | Dubai, UAE
https://ellingtonproperties.ae/
https://asai.org/architecture-in-perspective-37/robert-booth-ellington-properties

A true property guru, Robert has developed, marketed and sold some of the world's most reputable projects across five continents. Embarking on his career from his native Canada, he developed the country’s largest master-planned urban community; Vancouver’s Concord Pacific Place - commissioned by the legendary Hong Kong magnate and philanthropist: Li Ka-shing.

From there he moved to Concord Adex Developments Corporations where, as Director of Development, he oversaw a $2 billion development scheme in Toronto that became his stepping-stone to the world. Moving to Dubai in 2001, he joined Emaar Properties PJSC, holding a number of Senior Executive roles, including CEO of North America and CEO of Real Estate. He was instrumental in the development of Arabian Ranches, Emirates Living, Emirates Hills, The Greens, and The Dubai Marina, bringing 40,000 residential units onto the market.

His crowning achievement is the renowned flagship project ‘Downtown Dubai’ where from day one he has overseen everything from hiring masterplanners to launching the hotel, retail and residential components - including the iconic Burj Khalifa. Having defined international build standards, he retains his role at Emaar as Advisor to the Chairman. Robert holds a Master’s degree in Real Property Development & Planning from the University of British Columbia in Canada, as well as a BA in Political Science. He is a regular speaker at key RE conferences around the world.


John Brash
Founder & CEO
Brash Brands | Dubai, UAE
https://brash.agency/

Optimistic, brave and bold are qualities that are deeply rooted in the tents of John’s
Scottish heritage and are present in his style and approach to any business challenge.
John works directly with governments, tourism boards, airlines, hospitality groups,
private equity firms, developers and owners to ensure solutions are holistic,
pragmatic and effective and are designed to create immediate impact. John’s motto
remains simple; ‘Be Remarkable’ – it’s the only way to conquer mediocrity and make
a real difference. A motto that empowers a smart, ambitious and fearless team to
always go the extra mile, resulting in a unparalleled portfolio of luxury destination,
aviation and lifestyle brands around the globe. His work has enabled John to bring
his experience across many accounts, also specializing in aviation, destination,
hospitality and placemaking, including: Gama Aviation, Emirates, Royal Jet, Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai, Emaar,
Armani, Ritz Carlton, Oberoi, Caudwell, Four Seasons Chelsea Barracks, Great
Scotland Yard, MAIA Seychelles, Taj, Oberoi, Marriott Bonvoy, Blackstone, PIF
(Public Investment Fund), Qatari Diar, Amaala, Belgrade Waterfront, Wanda, Venke,
Barkli, The Dorchester, W Hotels & many more.John Brash
Founder & CEO
Brash Brands | Dubai, UAE
https://brash.agency/

Optimistic, brave and bold are qualities that are deeply rooted in the tents of John’s
Scottish heritage and are present in his style and approach to any business challenge.
John works directly with governments, tourism boards, airlines, hospitality groups,
private equity firms, developers and owners to ensure solutions are holistic,
pragmatic and effective and are designed to create immediate impact. John’s motto
remains simple; ‘Be Remarkable’ – it’s the only way to conquer mediocrity and make
a real difference. A motto that empowers a smart, ambitious and fearless team to
always go the extra mile, resulting in a unparalleled portfolio of luxury destination,
aviation and lifestyle brands around the globe. His work has enabled John to bring
his experience across many accounts, also specializing in aviation, destination,
hospitality and placemaking, including: Gama Aviation, Emirates, Royal Jet, Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai, Emaar,
Armani, Ritz Carlton, Oberoi, Caudwell, Four Seasons Chelsea Barracks, Great
Scotland Yard, MAIA Seychelles, Taj, Oberoi, Marriott Bonvoy, Blackstone, PIF
(Public Investment Fund), Qatari Diar, Amaala, Belgrade Waterfront, Wanda, Venke,
Barkli, The Dorchester, W Hotels & many more.
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