David Tibbott (IOI Properties Singapore) 17 June 2024
In APREA's Real Assets, Real People, we talk to an influential leader in the real assets industry to gain insights on their experiences and strategies for success.
Here's David Tibbott, Managing Director of IOI Properties Singapore.
What were you doing before you started your career in real estate/infrastructure?
I was a professional rugby player in the UK and studying at the University of Cambridge at the same time. It was a challenge balancing academics and athletic commitments, but that didn’t stop me from graduating with a Master’s degree in Real Estate Finance.
Who inspired you to pursue a career in the real assets industry?
My father. He owned a real estate consultancy firm that provided advice to businesses on large scale developments and tourism initiatives across Europe. It was an obvious decision to transition from professional sport into the dynamic landscape of real estate.
What is a typical day for you?
My day varies significantly, interacting with my leasing team, the marketing agency community and both prospect and committed tenants. I’ll also work with our property management team as we have been commissioning the building for public and tenant use, as well as handing over to tenants to commence fitout. There are also other HR and corporate interactions on a daily basis, as well as exploring opportunities for the business as and when they arise.
What do you do for fun?
Anything sports related since it has been a huge part of my life. Skiing, cycling, tennis and swimming are my go-to activities these days since I’m too old for contact sports like rugby. I have a young family now, so my wife and I try to engage our kids with sport as much as possible.
What lesson or advice can you share with fellow members in APREA?
I have been fortunate enough to gain a breadth of experience and insight across a variety of companies throughout Asia (Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Bangkok, Phnom Penh, Singapore, Jakarta & Hanoi). They are all very culturally different but making the effort to develop and maintain good personal relationships is one key advice I could give. The world of real estate is small and it is a people business.
