RIYADH — The recently announced Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City has appointed David Henry as the chief executive officer of the City.

An industry veteran with over four decades of experience in property development, David has been leading the team responsible for developing the City from the beginning of the project towards the goal of establishing it as a premier ecosystem for youth, and a global center for incubating innovative, educational, and creative enterprises.

Fulfilling the Crown Prince’s ambitious vision for the City, David is prioritizing working alongside a dedicated workforce on the project to deliver a City that will foster Saudi youth talent.

Focusing on promoting Saudization with particular emphasis on women empowerment and upskilling of staff, David aims to increase the percentage of Saudi talent working on the team from the current 58 percent to reach 70 percent by the end of 2022.

Dr. Ghassan Alshibl, chairman of Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City, said: “With the support of the Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City is dedicated to the goal of creating a vibrant Saudi youth talent system to shape the future of the Kingdom and the world, by encouraging learning and developing leadership skills among youth.

“We are delighted to have David Henry as a key partner and globally recognized industry leader that will help us shape a long-term strategy in both economic and urban sustainability for the City.”

Henry said: “As a destination that places youth, innovation, and creativity at its heart, the City will be an inspiration for all, and will help realize the ambitious vision for the Kingdom outlined by Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman.

“It is my honor to be part of this project that pushes the boundaries in design innovation, ecosystem development, sustainability standards and developing local youth talent.”

David’s industry experience includes working in Australia and Southeast Asia. His career began at Lend Lease Group in Sydney, and Mur Group, a diversified property development company.

David formerly held the position of CEO for Springfield City Group, a company specialized in the development of a new city in SE Queensland in 1992. As Managing Director of VinaCapital Real Estate, David was responsible for an active portfolio of 40 plus projects.

Expanding and diversifying his reach, he was Managing Director of the LSE AIM board listed Vinaland Fund, and a member of the VCRE Investment Committee. — SPA