The Urban Land Institute (ULI) has strategically positioned itself for accelerated growth across Europe by appointing Jan W. Peter as its new chief operating officer, effective 1 May 2025. The appointment signals ULI's commitment to capitalising on Europe's €2.8 trillion real estate market whilst addressing the continent's pressing urban development challenges.
Peter brings nearly two decades of sector expertise from CoreNet Global, where he served as Vice President of Global Operations for eight years from their Atlanta headquarters. His track record includes entrepreneurial ventures in residential real estate investment and leadership roles at flexible workspace pioneer Regus, positioning him uniquely to understand both corporate real estate strategies and investment dynamics that drive today's market.
The timing of this appointment coincides with Europe's critical need for sustainable urban solutions, as cities face mounting pressure to accommodate population growth whilst meeting net-zero targets by 2050. For investors and developers, Peter's operational expertise could unlock new opportunities in ESG-compliant projects, particularly as ULI's 5,500 European members across 15 countries increasingly focus on responsible land use and sustainable community development.
"I am thrilled to have officially joined the Urban Land Institute (ULI) as the Chief Operating Officer for Europe. It's an incredible opportunity to work with a distinguished organisation dedicated to advancing the responsible use of land and creating thriving, sustainable communities," Peter commented. His mandate includes overseeing member networks, events, programmes, marketing, communications, finance and governance across the region.
Anne Kavanagh, ULI Europe Chair, expressed confidence in the appointment: "I am very pleased to welcome Jan as our new COO for Europe and look forward to working with him. I'm certain he will have a significant impact at the Institute, working in close collaboration with the leadership team, our members, and staff, helping to unlock the opportunities ahead and facilitate in the delivery of ULI's mission and objectives."
Lisette van Doorn, CEO of ULI Europe, emphasised the strategic value Peter brings: "Jan will bring a wealth of highly relevant leadership experience to his new role, and I am looking forward to collaborating with him and to the vision and energy that he will certainly bring to advancing the experience for our members in Europe and the value proposition and benefits we provide." Based in London and reporting directly to the CEO, Peter will focus on enhancing member experiences whilst driving operational efficiencies that enable greater focus on addressing Europe's built environment challenges.
People mentioned:
- Jan W. Peter - Chief Operating Officer, ULI Europe (former Vice President Global Operations, CoreNet Global)
- Anne Kavanagh - Chair, ULI Europe
- Lisette van Doorn - CEO, ULI Europe
Companies mentioned:
- Urban Land Institute (ULI) - Non-profit education and research institute for built environment professionals
- CoreNet Global - Corporate real estate network organisation
- Regus - Flexible workspace operator
- Princess Cruises - Cruise line company
- Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts - Hotel chain
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