Our Team

Martin has a total of twenty years property sales and marketing experience and founded Downtown International in 2011 upon the successes of his career. Working previously at Dubai Lifestyle City, a subsidiary of the ETA Ascon Star Group of Companies and developer of branded residential communities provided Martin the perfect platform to launch Downtown International.

Prior to this, he managed the market leading brokerage Cirrus Real Estate after finishing a successful term at First Gulf Bank’s Freehold Property Division as their Head of International. Preceding FGB, Martin spent two years with MiNC Property Enterprises as UK Sales Manager responsible for the sales and marketing of London based investment properties across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. He has an extensive network and knowledge base of international residential property sales and has executed numerous property launches across the globe with consistently positive results.

Lylanie is a graduate of the Tanauan Institute and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy in 2001. She started her career as an Accounts Assistant for a major contractor in the Philippines before being promoted to Treasury Assistant. In 2008, Lylanie moved to Dubai to progress her career in accountancy within the shipping industry and then joined Downtown International in 2013 where she progressed to managing the entire accounting function covering both the Middle East & UK operations.

Founder and Managing Director of International Property Finance Group, Donna’s team handles all mortgage inquiries at Downtown International. IPFG has in excess of 20 year’s experience in the UK and international financial lending markets and are experts in foreign investor finance, arranging mortgage finance for clients from over 20 different countries. IPFG is equipped to provide you with the most comprehensive advice and support to cater for all your needs. If you are looking to build a portfolio, lending within a company structure or investment finance for a residential mortgage, Donna and her team are here to offer support and impartial advice on the vast array of possibilities and opportunities that are open to you.

As a former Inspector of Taxes in the UK who moved into the private sector Eric brings to Downtown International many years of experience working in the British tax field as well an insider’s knowledge of the UK Government’s Revenue & Customs department. As tax director of Whitemoor Davis Eric provides tailor-made planning advice for families and individuals buying property and investing in the UK, as well as dealing with tax returns and necessary compliance with all relevant government agencies. This enables us to offer you the additional support and security you may need when organising your finances and property purchases in the UK.

John is currently serving as the Managing Director of Downtown International Singapore, leveraging his profound passion for property and his intimate knowledge of the UK property market. He is dedicated to translating his expertise as a successful investor into a career that involves sharing insights with like-minded property enthusiasts, particularly those seeking value in capital gains and robust yields.

Before taking on this role, John held the position of Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to managing environmental impacts through a global disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states, and regions.

With over 25 years of extensive experience in general management and corporate development, John has a particular focus on spearheading growth in the Asia Pacific region. His role as the development head in Asia for Delio Group, a UK Fintech company specializing in Private Market software for global financial institutions, underscores his commitment to driving advancements in the field.

John’s journey in property and investment is enriched by his diverse background, including roles in media, technology, and corporate consulting. His experience with renowned entities like M&C Saatchi, MTV, and BlackBerry, coupled with occasional investments in start-ups, further demonstrates his versatility in navigating the dynamic world of property and investment.

Educationally, John holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manchester and has pursued postgraduate studies in Marketing. This educational foundation complements his practical experience, solidifying his standing as a well-rounded professional in the property and investment domain.

Talal’s extensive resume has touched many fields including real estate, hospitality, media, finance and diplomacy. After acquiring a degree in Accounting from Kuwait University, Talal started his career at The Kuwait Fund for Economic Development, followed by the investment bank, Global investment House, before moving to Toronto to manage an US$80m development project. In 2011, Talal joined the Glion Institute of Higher Education in Montreux, Switzerland, subsequently working in luxury hotel brands across many different countries. Finally moving to Dubai in 2013, Talal followed his passion to become one of the most reputed and trusted social media figures in the Middle East, promoting luxury lifestyle and real estate to his attentive followers. Talal is fluent in several languages including Arabic, English, Italian, French, Spanish & Turkish.

As well as managing Downtown’s operations in Kuwait and a Board Member of Arqaam Capital, Luay is the Founder and Deputy Managing Director of Adaa Real Estate Co., which specialises in international property development and construction. He also has significant investment banking experience from prior positions with; Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait as an Investment Manager in the Treasury and Investment Division, Al Ahlia Investment Company as a Senior Investment Manager in Portfolio and Asset Management and Gulf Investment Corporation as an Assistant Manager within the Asset Management Division. Luay started his career and investment training with the Kuwait Investment Authority which included short-term positions with various institutions, including Morgan Stanley. Luay has a BA in Business Administration from The American College in London and an MBA in Finance from Kuwait University.

Atman has over 17 years of experience within the real estate industry, with 10 years of experience in a senior managerial role. Having worked in most aspects of real estate, partnerships and financial services, Atman joined Downtown International as the Managing Director for the U.A.E. Aside from managing day to day operations, Atman has a significant strength for working with corporations, institutions and family offices to carry out capital raising for larger acquisitions. Atman has an extensive database and an ability to source rare off-market opportunities for Downtown’s clients.

Julian joined Downtown International having worked at  Barclays for eleven years. He previously worked in the retail Branch Network; as a Premier Relationship Manager; as an International Relationship Manager in the UK; as a Business Development Manager in Dubai and lastly as an International Relationship Manager for the Levant and the G.C.C. Prior to joining Barclays, Julian served more than 20 years as a public servant in the United States Army, where he achieved the rank of Major. He had several senior military postings including; Company Commander, Port Operations Officer, National Watercraft Maintenance Officer, Aide de Camp to the Commanding General, Director of US Army Safety for Ground Weapon Systems and Director of Operations (Middle East) for the Rapid Fielding Initiative. Among his many Military awards, he has been awarded the Bronze Star Medal. A significant part of his Military career was carried out in the Middle East, where he gained extensive experience and in depth knowledge of the various customs and cultures within the region. Julian is a graduate of the University of South Florida, Where he achieved a Baccalaureate of Science in Criminal Justice and Psychology; Florida Institute of Technology where he achieved a Master’s of Science in Business Management; and The Combined Arms Services Staff School.

After completing a degree in food technology, Angelo started his career in the business process outsourcing industry working for different multi-national companies in the Philippines. He has seven years’ experience as a customer service representative, primarily working in banking, claims, technology and shipping sectors. He has provided dedicated support for all clientele both locally and internationally. He moved to Dubai in 2017 to further his career in real estate as part of the call center team at Downtown International quickly progressing to Manager of this department. The team is responsible for filtering and qualifying clients, identifying business opportunities and scheduling meetings for negotiators.