Join us in congratulating the most recent property people appointments, promotions and moves, brought to you by Assemble Recruitment.
André Lovatt appointed as CEO of Leighs Construction
Leading construction company Leighs has announced André Lovatt as its new Chief Executive, effective 23 June 2025.
He replaces Gary Walker who has resigned to spend more time with his family and pursue a change of direction after 35 years in the industry.
Lovatt brings a wealth of experience and strong, positive leadership skills to Leighs.
He is currently Chief Infrastructure Officer of KiwiRail, and previously held a similar role at Auckland Airport. Before shifting to Auckland in 2018, Lovatt was Chief Executive at the Arts Centre of Christchurch Trust Te Matatiki Toi Ora and was a board member at Christchurch Airport. An engineer, he has also held leadership positions in Australia and Singapore and led Arup to win the very impressive Marina Bay Sands development
Anthony Leighs, who founded Leighs in 1995 and will next month become Chair, says he is thrilled with Lovatt’s appointment.
“I’m confident that he will lead Leighs superbly well, and in doing so, continue our growth as a leading constructor of social infrastructure and creator of real estate assets. A real people person, he has an excellent track record in leading large teams across the Asia Pacific and is highly-regarded for his supportive and encouraging approach.”
Lovatt will be based in Leighs’ Auckland office and will travel regularly to Christchurch.
REINZ boss Jen Baird joins Bayleys
Baird is departing to join Bayleys as executive director of Auckland residential after nearly four years leading REINZ.
“Jen believes strongly in the real estate industry and its people,” REINZ chair Kevin Jenkins said. “Her energy and passion will be missed.”
During her tenure, Baird played a significant role in large-scale business transformation projects and oversaw the growth and development of REINZ’s educational offerings
She was recognised for her leadership in navigating changes in the digital and data landscape, and Jenkins said Baird has been pivotal in championing a world-class profession.
Baird has previously been general manager of city growth at Hamilton City Council and, prior to that, was chief marketing officer at Barfoot & Thompson for nearly 10 years.
Because Baird is joining a REINZ member, she has stepped back from the chief executive role, with Rowan Dixon appointed acting chief executive as the board started its search for a replacement.
“Rowan brings key skills and a long history with REINZ,” Jenkins said.
“Our members are in good hands as we manage this transition.”
INC Group welcome Project Director and Commercial Manager
INC are excited to welcome Caleb Kennedy as Project Director and Josh Grado as Commercial Manager. Both bring a wealth of experience and leadership in their respective fields, with their expertise further strengthening INC’s growing team.
Congratulations Caleb and Josh!
TBIG promotes two assistant project managers
Welcome to Tristan Cantlon, who joins the TBIG team in Tāmaki Makaurau as an Assistant Project Manager.
Tristan recently graduated with a Bachelor of Building Science in Project Management and Sustainable Engineering Systems from Te Herenga Waka— Victoria University of Wellington. He comes highly recommended, having a strong foundation in the construction industry.
“I’m super excited to have joined TBIG after hearing amazing things about the team, work culture and the positive impact the company gives projects. I’m very grateful to have joined as an Assistant Project Manager, and I look forward to learning from experienced professionals, growing my skills and contributing to the amazing team,” says Tristan.
Congratulations, Tristan!
Henry McIntyre (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Toa), joins the TBIG team in Te Whanganui-a-tara as an Assistant Project Manager. Henry interned in the Wellington office over summer 2023-24, and was the inaugural recipient of The Building Intelligence Group Keystone New Zealand Property Education Trust School Leaver Scholarship.
Henry’s completed a Bachelor of Building Science – Project Management and Sustainable Engineering Systems from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington.
“Having completed a Bachelor’s in Building Science and a summer internship, it was a no brainer for me to come back to TBIG. What drew me back was the team, the dynamic culture, and the varied high-profile projects. TBIG’s pathway system was another key point, due to their interest in supporting and developing people. I’m really looking forward to growing my skillset and working alongside the team to deliver the best results I can”, says Henry.
Congratulations, Henry!
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