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Karmi Palafox
Urban Planner - Economist - City Strategist
Professional Background
Karmi Palafox is an accomplished urban planner with a rich and diverse international background that encompasses strategic planning, urban design, and policy-making. With extensive experience in addressing urban challenges, Karmi has demonstrated remarkable expertise in the development plans for communities, countries, and cities, both new and historic. His impressive portfolio includes work on mixed-use developments, residential neighborhoods, tourism infrastructure, airports, and post-crisis rehabilitation projects. Particularly noteworthy is his contribution to numerous impactful strategic plans focused on enhancing beloved locations in the Philippines, while also providing valuable insights to governments, such as the strategic preservation of historic buildings in Detroit and the revitalization of international destinations in China.
His career boasts senior roles in notable organizations, including Urbis in Australia, and the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment. At Urbis, Karmi worked closely with multi-disciplinary teams on various critical master plans, planning reform studies, and the design of innovative frameworks for State infrastructure contributions. His ability to combine strategic vision with practical application has made him a revered figure in the urban planning community.
Karmi’s passion for urban development extends to his leadership roles as Senior Adviser, Managing Partner, and Head of Planning and Urban Design at Palafox Associates, a leading planning and architecture firm in Asia. Throughout his tenure, he has made significant contributions to the field, driving forward complex urban development initiatives that address various social, economic, and environmental concerns.
Additionally, Karmi is a respected thought leader, having spoken at numerous international conferences and contributed articles on critical subjects such as housing, real estate, transport and mobility, and environmental sustainability.
Education and Achievements
Karmi Palafox's academic journey has equipped him with a robust foundation in urban planning and related disciplines. He holds a Master of Urban Planning with a specialization in Urban Design from Oxford Brookes University, where he honed his skills in creating sustainable and attractive urban environments. Furthermore, Karmi earned a Master of Economics from the University of Asia and the Pacific, which has enhanced his understanding of the economic factors that influence urban development, making him a well-rounded planner.
Karmi's pursuit of excellence in management is evident in his completion of the Advanced Management Program, a joint initiative with the University of Asia and the Pacific at the esteemed IESE Business School. This program has further refined his leadership and strategic thinking capabilities, positioning him as an effective leader in the dynamic field of urban planning.
An active member of various professional organizations, Karmi is a chartered member of the Royal Town Planning Institute in the UK, showcasing his professionalism and commitment to the highest standards of urban planning. Additionally, he is a licensed environmental planner with the Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners and an associate member of the Planning Institute of Australia, reflecting his dedication to sustainable and responsible urban development.
Notable Achievements
Karmi Palafox has attained various accolades throughout his career due to his substantial contributions to urban planning and design. He is particularly renowned for his work on projects that have made a positive impact on disadvantaged communities, creating pathways for more equitable urban development. His passion for generating jobs in regional areas and drawing tourists to vibrant destinations showcases his commitment to promoting economic growth through thoughtful planning.
A notable aspect of Karmi's career is his involvement in post-disaster rehabilitation projects, where he has played a pivotal role in rebuilding communities after crises. His ability to navigate complex urban challenges and offer innovative solutions has earned him respect in the industry and recognition at various global platforms. Karmi's participation as a speaker at international conferences underscores his role as an expert in the field, where he shares insights on pressing issues related to urban environments, sustainability, and community development.