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Nihat Ercan
Senior Managing Director and Head of Investment Sales Asia Pacific at JLL’s Hotels and Hospitality Group
Professional Background
Nihat Ercan is a seasoned professional in the real estate and hospitality sector, with an illustrious career that spans over 18 years at JLL, a global leader in real estate services. He has been with JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group since 2002, where he has made significant contributions to the firm’s legacy in the hospitality investment space. Currently serving as the Senior Managing Director and Head of Investment Sales for Asia Pacific, Nihat is at the forefront of guiding complex transactions that shape the hospitality market across the region.
Throughout his career, Nihat has demonstrated exceptional expertise in hotel investments, accumulating an impressive track record that includes the execution of more than USD 6.0 billion in hotel transactions. These transactions have taken place across various dynamic regions including Europe, Asia, and the Indian Ocean, showcasing Nihat's ability to navigate diverse market conditions and deliver outstanding results for his clients.
Nihat began his journey with JLL as an Analyst at the firm's London headquarters, where he honed his analytical skills and gained valuable insights into the real estate sector. In 2007, he made a strategic relocation to Singapore, where his career ascended to new heights as he took on roles with increasing responsibilities. At present, Nihat oversees a highly-skilled team of 17 market-leading hotel investment specialists, committed to understanding and addressing the transactional needs of clients throughout Asia Pacific.
Education and Achievements
Nihat Ercan's educational foundation is built on a robust academic background, having obtained his Bachelor of Science (BSc Honours) degree in Hotel and Catering Management from the esteemed University of Surrey. This qualification has equipped him with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the hospitality industry.
His credentials do not stop at his degree; he is a registered Real Estate Salesperson with Singapore’s Council for Estate Agencies and a respected member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). These affiliations highlight Nihat's professional commitment to the highest standards of practice in the real estate sector.
Nihat's accomplishments within his role at JLL are truly remarkable. He has facilitated some of the most significant hotel transactions in recent history, including the sale of Cheval Blanc in the Maldives for a record USD 5 million per key, which stands as a global benchmark. Another noteworthy achievement is the sale of Grand Park Orchard Singapore, which at the time was the largest commercial transaction in the city's history, valued at SGD 1.16 billion. Moreover, he orchestrated the sale of the InterContinental Hong Kong for USD 938 million, marking it as the largest single hotel transaction ever recorded globally.
More recent years have seen Nihat leading landmark transactions such as the sales of the Conrad Maldives, Anantara Maldives, Andaz Singapore, and the Westin Tokyo, which have further cemented his reputation as a leading figure in the hotel investment market.
Notable Achievements
Nihat Ercan's career is peppered with notable achievements that reflect his strategic vision and negotiation prowess. Some of the highlights include:
- Cheval Blanc, Maldives: Achieved a groundbreaking sale at nearly USD 5 million per key.
- Grand Park Orchard, Singapore: Facilitated the largest commercial transaction in the city's history valued at SGD 1.16 billion.
- InterContinental Hong Kong: Oversaw the largest single hotel transaction ever at a remarkable USD 938 million.
- Conrad Maldives, Anantara Maldives, Andaz Singapore, Westin Tokyo: Successfully closed landmark transactions that underscored Nihat’s expertise in establishing optimal market value for iconic properties across Asia Pacific.
In summary, Nihat Ercan is a distinguished leader in the hospitality and real estate investment arena. With a blend of strong educational credentials and a deep understanding of market dynamics, he continues to drive impactful transactions that not only benefit his clients but also set new standards in the industry.
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