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Simon Gunasekara
Associate Director - Planning at Urbis
Professional Background
Simon Gunasekara is an accomplished professional in the development industry, bringing over eight years of extensive experience in both Statutory and Strategic Planning. He has successfully navigated various roles within the public and private sectors, with a notable focus on consulting. Currently serving as an Associate Director at Urbis, Simon is dedicated to shaping vibrant cities and communities. His expertise spans a wide array of development applications, handling projects of various scales across commercial, retail, residential, government, industrial, and environmental sectors.
Throughout his career, Simon has been instrumental in the preparation and management of development applications from inception through to approval. His proficiency in navigating multiple planning jurisdictions across Australia, particularly in New South Wales, has allowed him to tackle numerous challenges in urban planning effectively. Complementing this hands-on experience is Simon's commitment to maintaining strong client relationships, ensuring that client needs are prioritized at all stages of the project lifecycle.
Education and Achievements
Simon began his academic journey with a strong foundation in the International Baccalaureate Diploma at St Paul's Grammar School, a program known for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on critical thinking. He continued to excel academically, earning a Bachelor of Planning (Hons 1) Degree from the prestigious University of New South Wales. This degree equipped Simon with a comprehensive understanding of city, urban, community, and regional planning, further enhancing his capabilities in the field.
His educational background, complemented by his professional accomplishments, positions Simon as a thought leader in urban development. He has held significant roles within various organizations, advancing his influence within the industry.
Professional Contributions
In addition to his role at Urbis, Simon has contributed to the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Australia as a National Chair of the Young Leaders Group. His leadership has played a crucial role in fostering a community of emerging professionals within the real estate and land use sectors. He has also served as a committee member and co-chair for the ULI Young Leaders Group in Sydney, where he actively advocated for knowledge sharing and professional development.
Before ascending to his current position, Simon honed his skills through varied roles, including Senior Consultant, Consultant, and Research Assistant at Urbis. His early career also included experience as a Planner at Meinhardt Australia, a Planning Consultant at CommPlan, and a Student Land Use Planner at Lake Macquarie City Council, providing him with a diverse background and well-rounded perspective on urban planning.
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