Five Minutes With... Development & Marketing Director Kang Xue of Greenland Developments

Kang Xue joined Greenland Australia as Development and Marketing Director in 2013. In his first year, Mr Xue was responsible for achieving close to AUD$1 billion of investments overseeing the acquisition, delivery and sales and marketing of Greenland developments nationally.

Having held numerous positions involved in or responsible for the development of urban complex projects, including positions in China looking after procurement and marketing, Development Manager on Docklands Collins Square Multi-tower office project in Melbourne and project managing the Kew Cottages at Walker Corporation, Mr Xue brings extensive local and international experience from the development industry.
What sparked your interest in property development?
The ability to be responsible for driving a project from conception to reality and working through the unique challenges each development presents in the process.
What drives you – has there been someone or something that has inspired your career? 
To achieve goals which some see as impossible and to continually build upon previous accomplishments.
If you could go back in time, is there anything you would do differently? What piece of advice would you give yourself?
My philosophy has always been to never regret what you have done in the past, as this has formed the person you are today. My advice would be to make the most of what you have before you as life is your choice.
How did you get your start in the property world?
My first gig in the property industry was as Development Manager on Docklands Collins Square Multi-tower office project and project managing the Kew Cottages at Walker Corporation in Melbourne.
What attracted you to Greenland Australia? 
The opportunity to be the first employee on the ground for Greenland Group initiating operations in Australia and becoming a serious competitor in the marketplace. I wanted to contribute to Greenland Australia’s growth locally and grow its presence in Australia.
What is your favourite project you’ve worked on with Greenland Australia to date and why?
Greenland Centre Sydney, Greenland Australia’s flagship development and Sydney’s tallest residential tower, which I am currently leading the project team.

Being the city’s tallest residential tower, it is one of the most iconic residential developments in Sydney and arguably regarded as one of the most complex and challenging projects in the construction industry. Once completed, it will be a testament to Greenland Australia's project team’s competence and capability and the ability to make the seemingly impossible, possible.
What projects do you have in the pipeline now? 
Current projects include Greenland Centre, Sydney which incorporates a heritage-converted five star boutique hotel, ‘Primus Hotel Sydney’ set to open in late 2015. Other current projects include ‘Lucent’ in North Sydney, ‘Leichhardt Green’ in Leichhardt and soon to be released ‘Omnia’ in Potts Point.

Furthermore, Greenland Australia are currently planning to develop a high profile mixed-use precinct in conjunction with Victorian Racing Club Melbourne at the world-renowned Flemington Racecourse. We have ambitions and scope for future Greenland developments in all Australian capital cities. 

Greenland Centre Sydney, Greenland Australia[/caption]
What has been your career highlight?
My professional achievement to date includes being responsible for planning and developing an extensive portfolio of residential and commercial properties valued at up to $2 billion since I started with Greenland Australia. These include:

• Successfully managing the development process and obtaining Development Approval in record time for Greenland Centre Sydney and overseeing the sales and marketing strategy with 241 of the 250 lots in Stage One sold within an hour on opening day.

• Leading the bidding process for the redevelopment of Queens Wharf, Brisbane in collaboration with Crown Resorts, which resulted in Greenland Crown Consortium being shortlisted as one of the final two tenderers on the joint venture partnership.

• – This is a truly iconic high-rise development located in a world stage city.

• – Similar to 432 Park Street in New York, this project is testament to the great success of an inner-city residential development in an iconic location.

• – This luxurious hidden retreat in the mountains of Ubud, Bali really excels in creating a true sense of tranquillity. When I want to escape the hustle and bustle of city living, this is one of my favourite spots to go to.

Our industry can only continue to grow, as there is an increasing emphasis on innovation, urban complex projects and inner-city living. I believe the increasing demand for apartments will continue to drive the demand for sophisticated living.     
What or whom have you learned the most from?
Be confident in your decision and back yourself or no-one else will. I have learnt this through working across various projects with Greenland Australia.
What is a website or blog that you visit often?
Financial Review online to stay up-to-date with the news so I am kept abreast on the market around me and its impact on our company’s operations.
What are three books that have you either influenced you professionally or personally?
I am truly inspired by people who are self-driven and passionate. I enjoy reading biographies on influential people and success stories which motivate me in both my life and work. In most recent times I have read: