Meet our new Regional Director

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I am excited about the future of Cistri, and the opportunity to continue to use our unique expertise to shape more projects and cities for the better.

Jack Backen View Profile

“He has worked on international projects for over fifteen years and since being based full-time in Singapore, has built a strong, respected, and growing network. Thus, the progression of Jack to Cistri Regional Director was obvious.”

On his appointment, Mr Backen said, “We have achieved so much in a short period, but there remain so many opportunities. I am excited about the future of Cistri, and the opportunity to continue to use our unique expertise to shape more projects and cities for the better.”

Jack will take up the position after inaugural Regional Director Peter Hyland revealed he would step down from his role and return to Brisbane. 

“Peter has been instrumental in establishing the highly respected business that Cistri is today,” Mr Pollack said.

Under Peter’s leadership, Cistri led or contributed to incredible projects including the Orchard Road 20-year Business and Development Strategy in Singapore, KLIA Aeropolis Masterplan in Malaysia, Riyadh TOD Strategy in Saudi Arabia and Xiamen Xiang International Airport in China.

Reflecting on his time at Cistri, Mr Hyland said, “It has been a very satisfying five years living in Singapore helping to guide the growth of Cistri. I am very proud of the team and culture that we have built and the amazing projects that we have been able to work on.”

Jack has been working alongside Peter in a co-leadership role since January 2021. Peter will continue to work with Urbis and Cistri clients from his base in Brisbane.