In a seamless leadership transition, Auckland Airport chief commercial officer Mark Thomson has been elected as the new national chair of Property Council New Zealand. Thomson takes the helm from Precinct Properties chief executive Scott Pritchard, who has led the council through a pivotal period since 2020.
With more than 30 years of experience in real estate management and development, Thomson’s influence spans key sectors including transport and logistics, retail, and consumer businesses. At Auckland Airport, he oversees a portfolio encompassing investment property, hotels, duty-free retail, parking and valet services, and e-commerce. His strategic oversight extends to Auckland Airport’s hotel joint venture with Tainui Group Holdings, and he serves as a director at Queenstown Airport Corporation.
Thomson’s deep-rooted connection with the Property Council began more than a decade ago, including governance roles as a national councillor and member of the executive committee. His continued involvement on the national board over the past several years has positioned him to steer the council as it navigates critical regulatory changes and market dynamics.
“I’m deeply honoured to take on this role in the footsteps of Scott Pritchard, who has led with exceptional skill, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic, when the industry faced immense pressure,” Thomson said. “I look forward to ensuring the Property Council remains a constructive and collaborative voice for our industry, advocating on behalf of our members and driving initiatives that will shape the future of property in New Zealand.”
Before joining Auckland Airport in 2014, Thomson was director of strategy execution and property (Asia) for Toll Global Logistics, managing real estate across 12 countries, including China, Singapore, and India. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Lincoln University and has completed the prestigious Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.
Property Council chief executive Leonie Freeman expressed her support for Thomson’s appointment, citing his deep industry knowledge and proven leadership. “Mark brings a wealth of experience and a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach. He’s a passionate advocate for the property sector, and we’re fortunate to have him lead us at a time when the sector faces significant change,” she said.
Thomson steps into his new role at a pivotal time for New Zealand’s commercial property landscape. The council is poised to effect key legislative reforms, including upcoming changes in resource management, urban development policies, and infrastructure investment. “It’s an exciting moment for our industry, with critical regulatory reforms on the horizon. Property Council is committed to engage with our members and stakeholders as we navigate these changes, to continue to champion the interests of our industry,” Thomson remarked.
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