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The peak industry body for the unlisted property funds industry has selected a new president from the retail sector.
Melissa Kingham, the executive director and fund manager at specialist retail property investment house Haben, has been appointed to lead the Property Funds Association of Australia (PFA).
As the first female president in the history of the PFA, she will be assisted by Greg Preston AM, managing director of property valuation and consultancy firm Preston Rowe Paterson, who will serve as vice president.
The body serves to represent the interests of businesses involved in Australia’s unlisted property funds industry, which is an important asset class for retail, wholesale and institutional investors, including the major superannuation funds.
Ms Kingham, who brings over 25 years of property industry experience to the role, said she recognised the importance of representing the interests of the unlisted property community.
“I am committed to promoting unlisted property investment, being a strong advocate for our members, and ensuring the association remains current and at the forefront of industry reform and regulations.
“The PFA is confident unlisted property will remain pivotal to investors over the long term, due to its performance and diversification benefits,” she said.
Ms Kingham also spoke of the importance of strengthening the sector in light of current financial fluctuations.
“Unlisted property continues to evolve and has a long track record of delivering income returns and capital growth to investors.
“PFA research and the comparison of investment performance across unlisted property, listed property, equities and fixed income, strongly supports unlisted property returns. It’s currently an exciting and dynamic asset class for investment, and we are seeing more niche, alternative, and innovative investment opportunities being created.”
Paul Healy, CEO of the PFA, expressed his confidence in Ms Kingham’s ability to lead, particularly in light of her existing involvement with the organisation.
“Melissa has been an active and valuable contributor to the PFA executive committee and the PFA diversity committee for several years. Her leadership is outstanding and I welcome Melissa to the role as President of the PFA.”
He commended her involvement, alongside Mr Preston, in attracting and retaining members to the body.
“Both Melissa and Greg have been a driving force helping to broaden PFA’s membership and connection with the unlisted property funds industry. They both bring professionalism and valuable experience to their respective roles.”
Mr Healy said that under this new leadership, the organisation would aim to continue to widen its scope.
“PFA is growing its membership and expanding its engagement with the industry.”
Mr Healy thanked outgoing president, Andrew Cannane for his “fine leadership during a busy and successful period for the PFA”.
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