ESR chief investment officer Josh Daitch departs after eight years, signaling a fresh wave of change at the Asian industrial specialist.

The exit follows the firm’s $7 billion Starwood Capital‑led privatization last summer, a move that has already prompted a reshuffle of senior roles. Daitch, who steered investor solutions and fund management, leaves a portfolio now set to expand under new leadership.

ESR plans to install former Lendlease CEO Justin Gabbani as head of fund management, a hire that could tighten the firm’s product pipeline and strengthen capital‑raising efforts. Gabbani’s track record in large‑scale asset operations positions ESR to capitalize on post‑pandemic industrial demand.

The transition underscores the intensity of competition in the sector and signals investors to monitor ESR’s strategy shifts closely. The firm’s next steps will dictate how it navigates a rapidly changing real‑estate landscape.