The Board of the LJ Hooker Group today announced the appointment of Christine Mikhael as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board.
Ms Mikhael's appointment comes after six months as Acting CEO while maintaining her existing Chief Performance Officer (CPO) duties for the LJ Hooker Group's house of brands, comprising LJ Hooker, Atlas by LJ Hooker and Harveys.
LJ Hooker Group Chairman, L Janusz Hooker, said Ms Mikhael had proven to be an outstanding leader in her role as CPO and as an advisor to the Board, and her appointment to CEO and the Board had been a natural step.
"It comes at an exciting time, as Christine's appointment signals the start of the LJ Hooker Group's next phase of growth as it approaches its 2028 century of pioneering real estate in Australia and New Zealand," he said.
"The Board has been impressed with Christine's success and leadership she joined the business in 2018.
"Her knowledge of what it takes to run a real estate agency, having had her own highly successful agency for over 15 years, provides an intricate understanding of what impacts our offices and our people on the ground and the drivers to make tangible differences.
“Christine also brings to the role diverse experience in property from international residential development and construction, audio and digital marketing and a highly sought keynote speaker.
"Christine and her executive leadership team have a clear remit to grow the business by focusing on performance and growth and value delivery."
Ms Mikhael is supported by the executive leadership team comprising Chief Operating Officer Ruth Trewhella, Chief Financial Officer Simon Heathcote and Graeme Hyde as Network Chief NZ.
"LJ Hooker has proven itself to be one of the most resilient and successful real estate groups anywhere in the world," Ms Mikhael said.
"From establishing Australia's first Real Estate Investment Trust (A-REIT) to being its largest landholder and developer, LJ Hooker's contributions to the development of the industry and country are significant.
"LJ Hooker was also responsible for bringing franchising to Australia and was its first national real estate network; it has navigated countless real estate cycles and for generations been the brand people turn to and trust."
Ms Mikhael said there is a laser focus on growth through franchising and supporting its offices around Australia and New Zealand.
"We will invest in our brands, training and integrating the best in technology to ensure that our offering is second to none and that we serve our clients – our people - and our consumers - sellers, buyers, landlords and tenants - with excellence," she said.
"I feel fortunate to be given the opportunity with my team to write the next chapter for LJ Hooker and lead it into its centenary."
