Knight Frank, a leading global property consultancy, has announced that Shishir Baijal will take on the role of Non-Executive Chair for its Asia-Pacific region starting April 1, 2025. This new role will give Baijal the responsibility of overseeing the company’s business in the fast-growing Asia-Pacific region. Alongside this, he will continue his current role as Chairman and Managing Director of Knight Frank India, where he has been instrumental in driving the company's growth.
Baijal’s appointment comes as Knight Frank strengthens its focus on the Asia-Pacific market, which has become a key area of growth for the firm. In this expanded role, Baijal will collaborate closely with Craig Shute, who has been appointed CEO of Knight Frank Asia-Pacific and will also begin his role on April 1, 2025. Together, they aim to drive growth and build strategies that align with Knight Frank’s global vision.
Speaking about the appointment, William Beardmore-Gray, Senior Partner and Group Chair of Knight Frank, emphasized the significance of leadership in this fast-paced region. He said, “Knight Frank’s presence in Asia-Pacific is growing rapidly and delivering strong results. To shape the next phase of our development, we need our top talent to lead the way, and Shishir Baijal is perfectly positioned to do so.”
Baijal expressed his excitement for the new opportunity, highlighting the potential of the region. He said, “Asia-Pacific is one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing regions of our business. I am eager to contribute to its continued success and work with talented teams across the region.”
Knight Frank’s operations in Asia-Pacific are impressive, with 11,000 employees working across 300 offices in 15 countries. The region has become a key focus for the company due to its rapid economic and property market growth. Globally, Knight Frank has more than 27,000 employees spread across 740 offices in 50 countries. The firm is known for its expertise in real estate, offering services in commercial, residential, and investment sectors.
Baijal brings nearly four decades of experience across diverse industries, including real estate, hospitality, education, and entertainment. He played a pivotal role in India’s multiplex revolution and the growth of INOX, one of the country’s leading cinema chains.
His career has spanned global markets, with key assignments in Australia, New Zealand, and Seychelles. Before joining Knight Frank, Baijal held senior roles with ITC Welcomgroup and the Inox Group. He also served as the Founder and Managing Partner of Everstone Capital Advisors Group (ECAPL), a private equity and real estate asset management company.
During his time at ECAPL, Baijal led several innovative initiatives, including launching India’s first retail real estate fund and creating a logistics-focused real estate fund. His strategic vision has been instrumental in shaping the real estate industry in India and internationally.
With his vast experience and proven leadership, Baijal’s expanded role at Knight Frank is expected to further strengthen the company’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region and drive its future success.
Shishir is also a strong supporter of collaboration within Knight Frank’s global network, actively referring to cross-border business to drive growth. His efforts are expected to play a key role in the company’s expansion in the coming years.
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