New CBRE appointment will help international brands and retail clients navigate Australian market expansion

CBRE has appointed Sam Embling to lead its Retail Tenant Representation business in Australia and New Zealand amid rising demand from overseas retail brands eyeing Pacific expansion opportunities. 

After six years in CBRE’s London office, where his most recent role was Director of EMEA Retail, Mr Embling has relocated to Sydney where he will bring more than 10 years of specialist experience to his new role as Director – Tenant Representation.

Mr Embling said he would focus on contributing to the growth of CBRE’s Retail and Occupier businesses in an ever-evolving market.

“I’m beyond pleased to be joining our Australian business and working in and helping to grow the Retail Occupier team. I’m looking forward to leveraging the experience and connections I’ve developed during my six years with the UK Retail and Cross Border Retail teams to support brands as they navigate market entry and expansion across the Pacific,” he said.

The appointment further strengthens CBRE’s Pacific Retail Tenant Representation business. Associate Director – Retail Tenant Advisory Barbara dela Pena, has been in the team for 18 months and is using her extensive experience to work with brands and retailers across the Philippines, Japan and Singapore alongside her Asia Pacific colleagues.

Ms dela Pena’s retail clients planning expansion into the Australian market include Japan’s Bandai Namco and Gashapon Bandai as well as Korean restaurant brand The Born, which is headed up by CEO and celebrity chef Paik Jong-won who is also a judge on Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars.

CBRE’s Head of Retail Leasing – Pacific, Sheree Griff said the strengthened team would ensure CBRE’s exceptional offering continued to deliver results for clients.

“This new appointment at CBRE ignites a powerful opportunity for international brands and retail clients to confidently navigate the vibrant Australian market. With expert guidance and strategic insights, we are opening doors to endless possibilities and success in one of the most dynamic retail landscapes,” Ms Griff said.

“At CBRE, we recognise our Retail Occupier Business as a significant growth area, especially with the rising demand from overseas brands and emerging brands eager to expand into Australia. Our team is increasing and being market leading in serving both local and international retailers, ensuring that we offer first in market insights to ensure retailers are successful and to meet their evolving needs in this dynamic market,” Ms Griff added.