Tony Zhu

About Tony 

I grew up in China and moved to Australia about nine years ago to pursue a postgraduate degree in accounting. 

After graduation, I built a career in the construction and property development industry as a finance and accounting professional. I now work as a Capital Transactions Manager for Quattro Asset Management, a boutique alternative asset manager specialising in commercial office buildings. 

I’m currently studying a Master of Property Development, graduating in late 2024. I play tennis and enjoy travelling.

Why Master of Property Development? 

Education can help a person grow, both personally and professionally. I believe that having an in-depth understanding of how construction, property development, finance and accounting cohesively work together positions myself well in having unique insights, making informed decisions, and providing leadership and support to my organisation. I’m confident that the Master of Property Development course will provide the required knowledge and skills for me to advance my career, as well as being a good addition to my personal life.

The most rewarding part has been getting to know the lecturers as well as the class, especially the teammates I met along the way for group assignments. Everyone comes from a different cultural, educational, and professional background, and brings to the table their unique perspectives. I feel that the people you meet at university play a very special role in your life. 

Why UTS? 

UTS is a world-renowned university with high-quality education, known in the industry for the high standards of its construction and property related courses. It is conveniently located in the heart of Sydney, right next to Central station, which was important to me. 

The MPD course I’m studying has been designed to suit working professionals, with its block teaching mode; most of the lectures are delivered during non-business hours (Thursday nights and Saturday whole days), which allows for minimum disruption to work. This made it much easier to get employer buy-in to support my studies, both in terms of Friday study leave and making monetary contributions towards the tuition fees.

What’s Next?

I currently work in commercial real estate as a Capital Transactions Manager. My role involves feasibility analysis for acquisitions, capital stack structuring, preparation of investor and investment committee presentations. With my additional qualifications gained through the Master of Property Development, I hope to build my career in commercial real estate investment management and/or funds management.

For those considering studying property development I would say that UTS is a good choice for property and construction related studies. Property is a good industry to be in with lots of opportunities, both home and abroad.