Hubert Chak's Shocking Retirement: What This Means for SF REIT's $1.5 Billion Future!

The Asia Pacific property sector recently witnessed significant personnel changes, marking a pivotal moment for various organizations. One of the most notable updates is the leadership transition at the Hong Kong-listed logistics trust, SF REIT. Hubert Chak, the trust's chief executive officer and executive director, announced his retirement effective May 12, 2026, at the conclusion of the trust's annual general meeting. Chak has been at the helm since the REIT's establishment in 2020. His successor, Alan Lam Chung Chi, is expected to bring fresh strategies to the role. Lam, now 46, joined SF REIT as chief strategy officer in May 2025 and was later promoted to deputy chief executive officer in December 2025. His previous leadership experience includes roles as chief financial officer at China Logistics Property Holdings and VX Logistics Development, along with a tenure as an audit partner at KPMG.

Another significant loss to the industry is the passing of Chen Lihua, the honorary chairwoman of Beijing-based Fu Wah International Group, who died on April 5, 2026, at the age of 85. Chen founded Fu Wah in Hong Kong in 1988 and later transformed Jinbao Street in Beijing’s Dongcheng district from dilapidated housing into a vibrant commercial hub, which includes the well-known Regent Beijing hotel and the Jinbao Place mall. Chen consistently ranked among China’s wealthiest individuals and leaves behind a substantial legacy in high-end real estate development.

In another noteworthy development, Shaun Chong has been promoted to principal within the real assets team at the Abu Dhabi Investment Council, the sovereign wealth fund of Abu Dhabi. Chong, based in the UAE, specializes in real assets investments across the Asia Pacific, emphasizing platforms, joint ventures, and co-investments. He previously served as an associate principal for APAC real estate at the same institution after relocating from Singapore to Abu Dhabi.

The Keppel Infrastructure Trust also announced a significant leadership change, appointing Khor Poh Hwa as non-executive chairman. Khor, aged 76, has been an independent director on the trust’s board and will assume the role following the retirement of Daniel Cuthbert Ee Hock Huat, who stepped down to facilitate succession planning. This change will take effect after the trust’s annual general meeting on April 29, 2026.

In the financial sector, James Cheo has joined UBS Global Wealth Management as the chief investment officer for Southern Asia and Australia, effective from March 30, 2026. Based in Singapore, Cheo will focus on investment content and client engagement across Southeast Asia, Australia, and India. His previous role was regional chief investment officer for Southeast Asia and India at HSBC Global Private Banking and Wealth, where he built over 20 years of experience in multi-asset strategy.

LaSalle Investment Management has elevated Wayne (Wei) Qin to senior vice president on its Asia Pacific research and strategy team, also based in Singapore. Qin collaborates with the transaction and fund management teams, providing insights on the South Korean, Japanese, and Australian markets, with a specific focus on retail sector coverage across Asia. He joined LaSalle in 2021 after providing investment advisory services at CBRE.

The global professional services firm Aon appointed Winnie Loh as its real estate and data center leader for Southeast Asia, effective April 7, 2026. Loh, who has been with Aon since 2021, will direct the strategic direction and client delivery of the firm's real estate and data center practice throughout the region. Her appointment is particularly relevant as the complexities of data center investment continue to grow, navigating through development, financing, and long-term operations.

As the Asia Pacific property market evolves, these leadership changes signify not just a shift in personnel but also an opportunity for new strategies and innovation. Industry professionals are keeping a close eye on how these transitions will impact the market dynamics and the overall investment landscape.

If you know of other Asia real estate professionals changing jobs or achieving significant milestones, please reach out to us here at Mingtiandi.