Ex-BlackRock MD is new KKR Australia head

Tom Lee has joined KKR Australia as managing director and head of Australia and New Zealand Real Estate. His first day will be 3 May.

In his new role, Lee will be responsible for expanding KKR's real estate strategies across the region.

"Tom's proven real estate track record and global industry experience make him the perfect fit to lead our Australia and New Zealand," said KKR head of Asia Pacific real estate John Pattar. "Tom has a unique skillset as an investor, operator, and platform builder

Lee spent several years with corporate real estate LOGOS Group in Sydney as CEO and a senior advisor. He left in mid-2020. He also spent nearly nine years with BlackRock in Singapore and London, most recently as the managing director and head of real estate for EMEA. He spent more than 10 years with Lendlease in Sydney, Brisbane, San Francisco, and London.

"We are thrilled to have an investment professional of Tom's calibre join our Australia team," said head of KKR Australia Scott Bookmyer. "Australia and New Zealand's real estate markets are being reshaped and modernized. Tom's addition to our senior team opens up new and exciting ways for KKR to participate constructively in this evolution."

Lee says he looks forward to working with the firm's team to carry out KKR's strategy in the region. "KKR is one of the most respected real estate investors in the world and the flexible approach as a solution provider enhances our role as a partner of choice within real estate and the broader corporate sector."