The Property Council of Australia’s Canberra division has appointed a new executive director.
Ashlee Berry has been appointed as executive director for the ACT and capital region, following an extensive career in the property and legal sectors.
The executive director brings with her an extensive career in law, having previously worked as a solicitor in NSW and as a senior associate with an ACT-based legal practice. She also served as director and legal counsel for Master Builders ACT for over six years.
Berry expressed eagerness at the chance to help strengthen the ACT’s housing sector, stating: “It’s a pleasure to take a leadership role in an organisation whose members are essential to the economic strength of the territory.”
“It will be a privilege to lead conversations that matter deeply to the lives of people in the territory and capital region,” she said.
“I look forward to continuing the positive relationships and solutions-focused work of the Property Council in the ACT and advocating on behalf of our members on essential matters of public policy.”
Phil O’Brien, ACT division president and general manager at Amalgamated Property Group, noted that Berry’s leadership would be especially valuable in the lead-up to an election.
“With challenging issues ahead in planning and housing and a territory election in full view, it is a critical time for our sector and for the region more broadly to have a strong voice,” he stated.
“Ashlee’s many skills ensure she will make a positive leadership mark on the future of the city and beyond in this role.”
As the region prepares for an election, PCA chief executive Mike Zorbas believes Berry’s prior experience will position her well to take on this challenge.
“Ashlee’s policy experience will make her a formidable advocate for investment in the place making and jobs that will empower the next phase of the region’s prosperity,” Zorbas said.
“Ashlee’s leadership nous, smarts and warmth will position her well as the champion of our city-creating ACT and capital region members,” he stated.