Peter Sharp of Walmart Named President of Taubman Asia

Taubman Centers has named Peter J Sharp as president of Taubman Asia, as current president René Tremblay transitions to chairman of the Asian branch of the US retail REIT effective January 1 next year, according to a statement by the company.

In his new role leading Taubman’s efforts in the region, Sharp will report to Taubman Centers chairman, president and CEO Robert S Taubman and will be responsible for the company’s operations and growth strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.

Taubman, which pioneered mall development in the US, has two shopping centres in mainland China under the City-On brand, as well as projects in South Korea and Macau.

Sharp, a 20-year Walmart veteran, is leaving his role as president of Walmart Asia Realty where he oversees the company’s Asia real estate portfolio, mall developments and has been responsible for all aspects of business planning, real estate, realty partnerships and mergers and acquisitions. He has led the company’s expansion in China and entry into India, Japan and South Korea.

“Asia is an important growth vehicle for Taubman and our future success in the region will rely greatly upon Peter’s expertise and leadership,” said Taubman. “We are delighted to welcome him to the executive team next year.”

Tremblay, a veteran of Canada’s Caisse de dépot et placement du Québec, joined Taubman in 2010 as president of Taubman Asia. During his time guiding the developer’s Asia team, Tremblay has been responsible for the company’s CityOn.Xi’an which opened in April this year and CityOn.Zhengzhou, which is slated to open in March 2017. Tremblay also led the opening of the Starfield Hanam mall in South Korea this month as well as its management and leasing of The Boulevard at Studio City in Macau and the IFC Mall in South Korea.

“René is a tremendous, highly respected leader who has expertly guided us through our entry into the Asian market,” said Taubman. “He has built an outstanding platform for our future growth in the region and we thank him for his numerous accomplishments as he assumes this new role.”