ITC Business Council Highlights: Roger Holland

Roger Holland- Board Member of the Business Council for Emerging Markets.

Roger Holland serves as the President of Scot Holland / CBRE, a pivotal player in the real estate industry in Central Asia and the Caucasus. With a substantial role in the Emerging Markets Business Council at the International Trade Council, Roger brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table.

Beginning his journey in Almaty, Kazakhstan in 1994, Roger identified a critical need in the real estate sector. He assisted a growing population of expatriates in finding housing amidst challenges such as limited property information, scarce real estate agents, and language barriers. This endeavor marked the start of his illustrious career in the industry.

Roger’s academic background includes a B.Sc. in Accountancy & Statistics, and his early career involved pursuits to become a management accountant. His experiences as an internal auditor for major international companies like RCA International and Tesco PLC honed his skills in financial discipline, emphasizing the importance of systems, procedures, controls, checks, and balances.

Significant projects that have marked his career include advisory work on a 4-satellite city project in Almaty and working with demanding large multi-national clients. His professional accomplishments, such as the affiliation with CBRE, IPO valuations, and reports for EBRD & World Bank, stand as testaments to his success.

Roger has witnessed and contributed to the evolution of the real estate industry in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, from its nascent stages post-1991 independence to its current sophistication. Today, he is actively engaged in addressing industry challenges like affordable housing and developer financing.

Looking ahead, Roger anticipates continued growth and international integration in the industry. He is particularly excited about advancements in green and WELL buildings, energy efficiency, building technologies, and smart cities.

For those starting in the industry, Roger advises a strong educational foundation and gaining broad experience in top international property consultancies. When faced with challenges, he advocates for quick, team-oriented problem-solving and forward movement.

Outside of his professional life, Roger’s interests include current affairs, sports, and volunteering. His role models in the field include CBRE, Berkeley Homes, and Damac. Roger Holland’s journey in the real estate sector is a blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, and a commitment to professional excellence, making him a significant leader in the International Trade Council’s Emerging Markets Business Council.