Property Finder Appoints Owen Wilson, CEO of REA Group, to Its Board of Directors
Property Finder, the leading property portal in the MENA region, has officially announced the appointment of Owen Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of REA Group, to its Board of Directors. This significant development is expected to enhance the company’s growth trajectory and reinforce its leadership in digital real estate services.
Wilson brings with him an extensive background in property portals, digital innovation, and international business expansion. He has spent nearly a decade at REA Group—operators of realestate.com.au, Australia’s top property platform—progressing from Chief Financial Officer to CEO. Under his leadership, the ASX-listed REA Group (market capitalization approx. USD 20 billion) expanded its global presence and earned recognition as one of the most advanced digital real estate companies worldwide.
REA Group, previously a shareholder in Property Finder, is majority-owned by News Corp, the global media conglomerate founded by Rupert Murdoch.
Wilson's inclusion on the Board is a strategic move by Property Finder to support its ongoing mission to innovate, enhance governance, and add greater value for home seekers, buyers, and real estate partners across the Middle East and North Africa.
Michael Lahyani, Founder and CEO of Property Finder, welcomed the appointment, stating:
“Owen brings deep industry expertise to our Board. His leadership at REA Group—shaping digital transformation, spearheading strategic mergers and acquisitions, and championing customer-first innovation—sets a strong benchmark. As we continue our mission to change living for good in the region, Owen’s insight will be instrumental in strengthening our position as the regional leader.”
Commenting on his new role, Owen Wilson said:
“I’m deeply passionate about creating personalised experiences that redefine how people engage with property. I’ve long admired Property Finder’s bold vision and the transformative role it plays in reshaping real estate across the MENA region. I’m excited to support Michael and the Board as the company enters its next chapter of growth.”
With Wilson's expertise in scaling digital platforms and leading data-driven innovation, Property Finder is expected to further enhance its market presence and product offerings in a rapidly evolving real estate landscape.
