Lisette van Doorn, the long-serving CEO of ULI Europe, has announced she will step down at the end of 2025, closing a transformative 10-year chapter that has seen the organisation grow from 2,000 to over 5,500 members across Europe. Backed by a solid framework of knowledge exchange, policy-shaping research and influential programmes, Urban Land Institute (ULI) now hosts over 300 annual events, solidifying its leadership in the future of real estate and urban development.
As a cooperative hub for global thought leadership, ULI Europe under van Doorn's guidance has launched a wave of influential initiatives including the C Change programme, UrbanPlan educational scheme (now active in five countries), and the growth of Product Councils to 14 groups. These milestones have enabled investors, developers and policymakers to access uniquely curated insights into the evolving needs of sustainable urban spaces.
“It has been a wonderful journey, one that has allowed me to learn, grow and meet so many inspiring members and industry leaders,” said van Doorn, who cited family and future career reflections as reasons for her transition. “Together, we have worked to shape the future of the built environment, creating transformative impact in communities around the world.”
However, while celebrating ULI's success, the moment also opens the floor for new strategic thinking. With urban density and land use becoming increasingly urgent in key gateway cities, the opportunity for investors lies in harnessing ULI’s research better to evaluate redevelopment potential, asset reuse and infrastructure integration. As ESG becomes a driver of long-term capital allocation, the groundwork laid by van Doorn provides a pivotal platform for future-proof investment decision-making.
“Lisette is a passionate leader who has played a significant role in the last decade of positioning ULI in Europe for transformative impact in communities,” said Anne Kavanagh, Chair of ULI Europe’s Board and CEO of PATRIZIA SE. “She has built a strong, committed team and together they have delivered many accomplishments.”
Angela Cain, ULI Global CEO, added, “Her transformative impact with members and communities across Europe has no doubt laid the groundwork for even greater success in the coming years.” The organisation has enlisted Bohill & Partners to work with Kavanagh on the search for a successor, with continuity and member engagement cited as top priorities.
People Mentioned:
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Lisette van Doorn, CEO, ULI Europe
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Anne Kavanagh, Board Chair, ULI Europe and CEO, PATRIZIA SE
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Angela Cain, Global CEO, ULI
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Bohill & Partners, executive search firm
Companies Mentioned:
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Urban Land Institute (ULI) – Global non-profit education and research institute for real estate and urban development
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PATRIZIA SE – European real asset investment manager
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Bohill & Partners – Executive search and leadership advisory firm
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