Image: Luke Billiau via LinkedIn
JLL has named Luke Billiau as interim CEO for its Australian and New Zealand operations after the exit of Dan Kernaghan, the Australian Financial Review reports.
Billiau, previously head of capital markets, is a seasoned dealmaker with more than two decades of experience in commercial real estate. His promotion comes amid heightened scrutiny of workplace culture across the property sector.
The leadership change stems from JLL’s decision in August to remove Kernaghan after concerns were raised over his handling of a staff misconduct issue. At the time, the company stated it had taken “decisive action” to uphold its values and maintain trust with employees and clients.
Richard Bloxam, a member of JLL’s global executive board, said the transition period had demonstrated the strength of the regional leadership team and expressed full confidence in Billiau’s ability to steer the business while a permanent successor is identified.
The episode underscores a broader trend in the industry, with workplace standards and governance practices coming under closer examination. Rival agency CBRE is also managing internal challenges after allegations of mishandled complaints surfaced in recent months.
As JLL works to reinforce its culture and leadership framework, the company remains focused on delivering outcomes for clients while navigating a sensitive chapter in its Australasian operations.
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