Gopal replaces Brian Kirchmann, who is retiring after 16 years as executive head of the organisation whose members control about 80% of all commercial and industrial property in SA.

Gopal, who has held the position of Sapoa’s chief operating officer since July 2004, and has been involved in driving black economic empowerment processes in the industry, says that the property industry has “come of age” and “found its level both nationally and internationally”.

Gopal was previously senior manager of property development and head of marketing and new business for property developer Intersite, where he spent nine years. He has worked closely with government on numerous projects in and around Gauteng.

Kirchmann has been credited with growing the organisation to its influential position.