The South African Real Estate Trust (SAREIT) Association proudly announces the appointment of its newly elected office bearers and committee members for the 2023/2024 financial year. The executive team comprises industry leaders committed to advancing the local REIT sector and aligning it with international standards.

Leading the Association's executive committee is Estienne de Klerk, CEO of Growthpoint Properties SA, who has been re-elected as Chairman. Working alongside him are other re-elected members, including Joanne Solomon, the CEO of SA REIT Association, and Gareth Rees, Finance Executive and Chief Risk Officer of Liberty Two Degrees, who will continue in his role as Treasurer.

Geoff Jennett, Chief Execu2ve Officer of the Emira Property Fund Ltd, was re-elected as the Chairperson of the Conference Commi(ee. The committee is responsible for the planning and execution of the Association's successful conference, which will be held on 15 February 2024 and has opened for registration.

Additionally, the executive committee includes Leon Kok, Chief Operating Officer of Redefine Properties, who has been re-elected as Chairman of the Accounting and JSE Committee. The committee's primary objective is to develop and uphold best practice recommendations, ensuring property companies deliver outstanding annual financial and non-financial reports. This will provide investors with reliable and consistent disclosures in accordance with JSE regulations.

The Investor Committee, a key component in strengthening relationships and engagement with institutional investors, will be chaired by the CEO of Investec Property Fund, Andrew Wooler. This committee also seeks to enhance understanding of relevant sector issues while positively influencing the market's perception of the asset class.

Taking the helm of the Research Committee is Itumeleng Mothibeli, Managing Director of Vukile Property Fund, Southern Africa. This committee will focus on generating and providing access to high-quality, independent research concerning the listed property sector in South Africa and other pertinent markets.

The Legal and Competition Commission Committee will be led by the recently elected Chairperson, Tracey Wolf. This committee will address REIT-specific legislation and competition-related matters, collaborating closely with other industry bodies to ensure alignment on relevant issues.

Championing the Transformation Committee is Shawn Theunissen, Executive for Corporate and Social Responsibility at Growthpoint Properties. This committee plays a vital role in supporting the broad-based black economic empowerment principles within the sector.

With 25 members listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the SA REIT Association is dedicated to assist its members in navigating the complex regulatory and governance landscape. By addressing sector challenges and providing essential guidelines and support, the Association aims to meet stakeholder needs while promoting South African REITs as a compelling investment class, both locally and internationally.

SA REIT CEO Joanne Solomon says the expertise and dedication of the newly elected executive team and committee members play a crucial role in aligning the local REIT with international standards.

"We are confident they will contribute to the continued success of our organisation. Please join us in wishing them a successful term in office," Solomon says.