Seasoned hospitality real estate advisor Mike Batchelor will succeed Scott Hetherington to lead business Mike Batchelor, has been named JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group’s Asia CEO. Mr Batchelor, who has been Managing Director, Investment Sales Asia since 2007, will succeed Scott Hetherington, who is stepping into the role of Chairman. Based in Singapore, Mr Batchelor will have overall responsibility for the strategic direction and growth of JLL’s hotels business in Asia. He joined JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group in 1995 as Head of Brokerage in Australia before moving to the regional role. With nearly 25 years of experience in the sector, Mr Batchelor has lead and developed the Investment Sales team in Asia but also has been instrumental in the sale of a number of high profile assets including the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Singapore, Laguna Beach Resort Phuket, Grand Park Orchard Hotel Singapore and the InterContinental Hong Kong. “We’re excited to have Mike step into his new role and look forward to working with him to achieve our ambitious plans for the Hotels & Hospitality Group in Asia,” says Anthony Couse, CEO, JLL Asia Pacific. “Scott has done a stellar job of building the business in Asia over the years. With Mike’s expertise in transactions and delivering service excellence, we will continue to provide our clients with the cohesive experience they expect, while looking at new areas where we can add value.” Mr Batchelor says: “Over the last 18 years, the team has built and maintained a leading market position under Scott’s leadership. It’s an honour to continue and build on his good work. I’m looking forward to driving business growth and ensuring our clients get the most value out of their hospitality assets.” The Group has also promoted Nihat Ercan to Head of Investment Sales, Asia. “In line with our talent development strategy to nurture a diverse and multi-generational team, I’m delighted to announce Nihat’s promotion. His well-rounded, international experience makes him the perfect fit. I’m confident that he will help to elevate and strengthen our market presence in the region,” adds Mr Batchelor. Mr Ercan joined JLL in 2002 and has been a significant member of the Asia hotel investment sales team. With his new role, he will now also serve on the Group’s Asia executive committee.
