JLL has appointed a new head of retail in Shanghai – and a China landlord representation leader.

Ellen Wei, who was previously the China head of retail leasing with DTZ/Cushman & Wakefield, will continue to expand JLL’s presence in China’s retail market.

Wei also previously served as assistant GM for China Xintiandi Management. She has more than 14 years experience in shopping center retail leasing and 10 years as a leasing team leader for many of China’s most famous malls and developers.

JLL says Wei’s local understanding of key Chinese retail markets including Beijing, Shanghai, and other cities, in addition to her relationships with top-tier developers will create immense value for the company’s clients.

“I am confident Ellen will continue to build upon our unrivalled track record in retail markets,” said Eddie Ng, MD, East China, with JLL.

In her new role, Ellen will be responsible for the management of JLL’s Shanghai Retail team and China Landlord Representation team – a group of retail professionals whose focused expertise will add to JLL’s full market capabilities across all categories.

Supporting her from the planning and renovation side will be Brenton Dodd, who has more than five years of experience in China having worked for Taubman TCBL and China Xintiandi, serving projects across China.

Ian Zhang will be helping to manage the landlord representation team, where he will bring more than eight years of real estate experience in market research and project positioning.

James Hawkey, JLL’s retail head for China, has relocated to Shanghai in order to further strengthen JLL’s capabilities in retail.

“JLL has brought together an exceptional team of experienced retail professionals,” said Wei. “I am thrilled to join the team and add to the company’s already stellar reputation of creating greater value.”