This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
PLANNING, design, economics and research firm Urbis has appointed a new managing partner, in industry leading urban strategist, James Tuma.
The Brisbane-based strategist will take on this senior shareholder position and support Urbis and Cistri CEO, Ben Pollack, effective 1 July 2023. He also sits on the Urbis and Cistri Board.
“We need imaginative, data driven solutions for our cities as they face the challenges that come with growing populations, the impact of technology, and the demand for sustainability,” said Tuma.
Tuma is set to lead Urbis’ strategic advisory arm, Future State, which leverages Urbis and Cistri’s evidence-based methodology with creative problem solving.
“Urbis and Cistri offer a unique perspective with our fusion of creativity and evidence that is largely unmatched in the industry. I am eager to align and stretch our owner group to support CEO Ben Pollack and our executive group to lead us through these challenges,” added Tuma.
Tuma has over 25 years of experience in strategy, design and advisory roles across Australia, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
“While we thank Tim Blythe for his enormous contribution to the company and we celebrate his achievements, we also welcome the appointment of James Tuma who will provide a different lens to the leadership of our shareholders,” said Pollack.
“James is a respected visionary on the future of cities and the right person for Managing Partner at a time when cities are feeling the pressure of a changing world.”
Tuma’s predecessor, Tim Blythe, is an experienced urban planning advisor who played a key role in shaping many of Sydney’s most high- profile developments at Circular Quay, Central Sydney and across New South Wales.
“I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved during my term as managing partner for Urbis and Cistri,” said Pollack.
“The growth we have seen across Australia and internationally is a testament to the spirit of our people and our ability to deliver fresh thinking and independent advice to achieve the best outcomes. I look forward to continuing my journey with Urbis and Cistri as James Tuma joins CEO, Ben Pollack at the helm.”
Earlier this month, Urbis launched a boutique integrated property solutions (IPS) offer and made two new appointments to its new division’s leadership team in Sara Pratt and Roger Miller.
