Madison-based firms expand leadership roles and global reach
Century 21 opens its first UAE office while architecture firm HLW appoints co-studio directors to lead the Madison location.
Two major companies with headquarters in Madison Borough have announced significant organizational changes this summer. Century 21 Real Estate LLC is expanding internationally, and the global architecture firm HLW has named new leaders for its New Jersey office.
These moves highlight continued business activity within the town despite broader economic variables affecting regional markets.
Global Expansion into Dubai
Century 21 Real Estate LLC announced on June 23 that it officially launched its brand in the United Arab Emirates. The firm established a new office in Dubai to serve as the regional headquarters for all Middle East operations.
This expansion brings the Madison-based network into one of the world's fastest-growing real estate markets, which recorded significant transaction volume in early 2026.
The decision was driven by strong fundamentals and long-term visibility created by the UAE government's focus on attracting global businesses. Peter Matthews, group CEO for CENTURY 21 UAE and India, stated that establishing a regional headquarters reflects both the scale of opportunity and depth of demand seen across their network.
Leadership Changes at HLW
The architecture firm HLW announced on June 24 the appointment of Christopher Townsend and Erin Vasold as co-studio directors for its Madison office. The 141-year-old global firm selected these leaders to guide the next chapter of growth while ensuring international reach remains grounded by regional stewards.
Ed Shim, managing partner at HLW, noted that both individuals have been integral in shaping the identity and reputation of the New Jersey office over time. They are tasked with fostering creativity and teamwork across all projects within the region.
Townsend has established himself as a project leader across commercial, retail, and research sectors since joining the firm. His portfolio includes work for clients such as Haleon, Eisai, Everest, Kering Americas, and Venable LLP in New York.
Vasold brings more than 20 years of industry experience to her role after spending eight years at HLW building a career defined by creative versatility and operational precision. She has guided projects from concept through completion for clients including Avantor, Everest, Mars Wrigley, and Prudential Financial.
Market Conditions in Dubai
The new Century 21 office enters a market where the population of Dubai grew from 2.65 million in 2016 to over 4 million today. Projections indicate this number could reach 5.8 million by 2033, creating sustained structural demand drivers for real estate.
While broader regional conditions have introduced new variables for investors, the market maintains confidence due to a diversified buyer base and strong economic fundamentals. The Dubai office currently operates with 30 affiliated agents who are expected to continue growing in number.
Alex Pearson serves as managing director of the Dubai location and brings deep experience in both off-plan and secondary markets. He works alongside Matthews, whose oversight spans the brand's presence across South Asia and the Middle East.
Impact on Local Operations
Townsend and Vasold will work together to foster mentorship and professional growth within the New Jersey practice at HLW. They plan to leverage their combined expertise and longstanding client relationships to drive business development alongside Shim.
The team aims to advance HLW's leadership position in New Jersey by supporting continued growth of regional partnerships through new opportunities. This strategy aligns with the firm's commitment to innovation through collaborative leadership.
For Century 21, the expansion allows them to bring together the trusted power of their brand with deep local expertise in Dubai. The combination is designed to deliver for clients on both sides of a transaction wherever they are located globally.
Questions residents are asking
How does Century 21 plan to operate in the new UAE market?
The firm established its first Dubai office as the regional headquarters with 30 affiliated agents led by managing director Alex Pearson. They aim to combine their global brand power with deep local expertise to serve clients across South Asia and the Middle East.
What experience do the new HLW co-studio directors bring?
Christopher Townsend has delivered complex projects for commercial, retail, and research sectors including Haleon and Kering Americas. Erin Vasold brings over 20 years of industry experience guiding projects for clients like Avantor and Prudential Financial.
Why did Century 21 choose Dubai for its expansion?
Dubai recorded significant transaction volume in early 2026 driven by foreign investment and a population that has grown to over 4 million. The market is projected to reach 5.8 million residents by 2033, offering strong long-term visibility.
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