Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
LANGUAGES
Timeline
Generic

Vikalp Srivastava

Dubai

Summary

Highly accomplished real estate and infrastructure development professional with over 24 years of experience specializing in strategic asset management, commercial development, and investment planning across India and the GCC region. Proven expertise in identifying and evaluating new business opportunities, optimizing asset performance, and managing multi-billion-dollar retail and commercial portfolios. Adept at financial modeling, risk assessment, strategic planning, and building high-value partnerships with stakeholders across multiple markets. Track record of securing high-value deals and enhancing asset performance through innovative commercial strategies and effective stakeholder management.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience

Work History

Founder & Strategic Advisor

RAAS (Retail-as-a-Service)
03.2025 - Current
  • Building a tech-enabled retail and trade platform integrating logistics, financing, AI-driven customer engagement, and marketplace solutions for GCC retailers and brands.
  • Partnering with regional developers, logistics players, and fintech providers to enable market entry and cross-border growth.
  • Designing financial models and compliance frameworks to support SME expansion in line with GCC trade regulations.
  • Leading business development to connect RAAS solutions with major retail hubs and trade corridors, aligning with DP World’s ecosystem strategy.

Leasing & Revenue Optimization Lead

EMAAR MALLS
01.2023 - 03.2025
  • Spearheaded strategic leasing and asset management initiatives across Dubai Hills Mall, Marina Mall, and Expo City, surpassing targets by achieving 116% occupancy and 137% revenue.
  • Successfully leased vacant spaces from 2016, revitalizing underutilized assets to maximize rental income and enhance overall portfolio performance.
  • Pioneered innovative commercial concepts including the first women-only co-working space in Dubai, aligning with regional development priorities and diversifying revenue streams.
  • Achieved 100% lease renewals while improving commercial terms and profitability, enhancing long-term financial sustainability and stakeholder value.
  • Conducted detailed market research and competitor analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities for portfolio optimization and revenue growth.

Senior Leasing Specialist - Retail & Commercial Expansion

DUBAI OUTLET MALL
09.2020 - 12.2022
  • Led expansion strategy that increased GLA by approximately 1.6 million sq ft, significantly enhancing asset portfolio value and regional commercial footprint.
  • Negotiated and secured the first cash & carry hypermarket deal in the UAE (Lulu Hypermarkets), creating a new commercial category for the region and driving additional foot traffic.
  • Established an innovative omnichannel framework integrating retail and e-commerce strategies, positioning physical assets to compete effectively in the digital economy.
  • Introduced innovative retail concepts spanning over 150,000 sq. ft., increasing asset value and enhancing customer experience.
  • Secured group deals with major retail conglomerates including Azadea, Alshaya, Jashanmal, Liwa, Al Futtaim, and Chalhoub Group, establishing strong strategic partnerships.

Manager Leasing - Retail Development & Strategy

MAJID AL FUTTAIM
12.2018 - 04.2020
  • Developed the first standardized framework agreement for group deals across the GCC, successfully closing 19 store agreements and streamlining complex multi-location negotiations.
  • Played instrumental role in launching My City Centre Masdar, Abu Dhabi's first MAF retail project, aligning commercial strategy with sustainable development goals.
  • Led leasing and financial planning for five new mall developments across Dubai and Northern Emirates, ensuring optimal tenant mix and financial viability.
  • Formulated strategic leasing plans for new mall developments across the GCC, balancing local market needs with global retail trends.
  • Created comprehensive financial models and investment strategies to maximize returns on new development projects.

Leasing Manager - Real Estate Advisory & Investment

MSQUARED SHOPPING CENTERS
02.2016 - 11.2018
  • Managed 600 million AED leasing budget for Doha Festival City, a 2.5 million sq. ft. super-regional mall, optimizing capital allocation and financial returns.
  • Closed 118 retail, F&B, and anchor store deals in 18 months, achieving 95% occupancy and creating a diverse, commercially successful tenant ecosystem.
  • Successfully negotiated 100+ lease surrenders before Doha Festival City's opening, optimizing portfolio efficiency and financial performance.
  • Developed and executed financial strategies for Sharjah Coop's five community malls, enhancing asset performance and tenant mix.
  • Led Mirkaaz Mall leasing, securing 84,000 sq. ft. of retail space in just 4 months, demonstrating exceptional market knowledge and negotiation skills.

Director - Real Estate & Retail Startups

RETAIL ENTERPRISE AND LOGISTICS
12.2013 - 12.2015
  • Led real estate advisory services, supporting developers with feasibility studies, financial modeling, and investment strategies.
  • Formulated retail expansion strategies for clients, optimizing tenant mix and financial performance across multiple markets.
  • Developed operational infrastructures and standard operating procedures, ensuring efficiency in business rollouts and ongoing operations.
  • Created comprehensive financial models to assess investment opportunities and optimize returns for real estate portfolios.
  • Provided strategic guidance on market entry and expansion strategies for retail businesses across India and GCC markets.

Associate Director - Real Estate Investment Advisory

KPMG
09.2012 - 12.2013
  • Led governance, risk, and compliance services for top real estate and retail firms in India, establishing industry benchmarks and best practices.
  • Developed sophisticated financial models for real estate acquisitions, valuation, and joint ventures, facilitating informed investment decisions for major clients including DLF, Oberoi, Korum, Phoenix Mills, and Shoppers Stop.
  • Conducted comprehensive internal audits and risk assessments, optimizing operational efficiencies for major infrastructure and commercial projects.
  • Created standardized operating procedures for leasing and asset management functions, enhancing governance and operational control.
  • Provided strategic advisory services for market entry, expansion, and portfolio optimization for real estate developers and retail organizations.

General Manager - Real Estate & Infrastructure

RELIANCE INFRASTRUCTURE LTD
12.2008 - 09.2012
  • Spearheaded real estate and leasing strategy for metro projects, creating innovative non-fare revenue streams and enhancing overall project profitability.
  • Developed 2.2 million sq. ft. of mixed-use commercial, retail, and hospitality projects, achieving yields significantly higher than industry benchmarks.
  • Created comprehensive framework for integrating commercial development with infrastructure projects, maximizing value creation from public-private partnerships.
  • Managed leasing and tenant mix strategy for transit-oriented developments, optimizing commercial performance of infrastructure-adjacent properties.
  • Established strategic partnerships with retailers and commercial tenants to enhance non-fare revenue opportunities for infrastructure projects.

Senior Manager - Retail & Commercial Leasing

DLF LIMITED
04.2006 - 12.2008
  • Led leasing and marketing strategies for 30+ real estate projects across India, ensuring optimal tenant mix and financial performance.
  • Secured major retail brands for flagship properties including DLF Promenade, Courtyard, Megamall, and other landmark developments.
  • Managed the sale and leasing of 2.5 million sq. ft. of commercial properties across key Indian markets, maximizing portfolio value.
  • Developed comprehensive market assessment and competitor analysis frameworks to inform strategic decision-making and investment planning.
  • Created innovative marketing strategies to attract premium brands and enhance property positioning in competitive markets.

Manager Leasing

ANSAL API
01.2005 - 04.2006
  • Led leasing strategy for four major retail projects across India, establishing strong tenant relationships and ensuring optimal commercial performance.
  • Played key role in the successful opening of Punjab's first major shopping mall, demonstrating ability to pioneer retail concepts in emerging markets.
  • Managed leasing activities for Ansal High Plaza and Plaza Ludhiana, achieving target occupancy rates and tenant mix objectives.
  • Developed comprehensive tenant mix strategies aligned with market demographics and consumer preferences.
  • Established effective lease administration systems and procedures, enhancing operational efficiency and financial control.

Assistant Manager Retail

UNITECH
04.2003 - 12.2004
  • Managed leasing operations for amusement parks and shopping mall developments, developing expertise in entertainment and retail sector integration.
  • Secured 70% occupancy for line shops at Great India Place, which was India's largest mall in 2003, demonstrating strong market knowledge and negotiation skills.
  • Developed innovative approaches to tenant mix planning and zoning strategies for large-format retail destinations.
  • Created comprehensive marketing materials and leasing packages to attract premium retail brands to new developments.
  • Established strong relationships with retail brands and leasing representatives, building foundation for future strategic partnerships.

Corporate Relationship Manager

CHITRALEKHA GROUP
01.2000 - 04.2003
  • Led outdoor media sales to corporate clients, developing strong network relationships across advertising and marketing sectors.
  • Built and maintained a network of over 700 advertising agencies and 2,000 companies, demonstrating exceptional relationship management skills.
  • Exceeded sales targets consistently through effective client relationship management and strategic account planning.
  • Developed innovative media solutions tailored to client marketing objectives and budget requirements.
  • Created comprehensive client relationship management systems to enhance service delivery and account retention.

Education

MBA - Business Administration & Management

Southern New Hampshire University

MBA - Business Administration

Institute for Technology & Management

B.Sc. - Mathematics

Kanpur University

Skills

  • Infrastructure Project Management: Extensive leadership experience in managing multi-billion-dollar infrastructure and commercial development projects, including metro expansion initiatives, mixed-use developments, and large-scale retail complexes Proven ability to deliver complex projects on time and with optimal financial performance, managing budgets up to 600 million AED
  • Trade & Market Expertise: Over 24 years of specialized experience in commercial development across India and GCC markets, with deep understanding of cross-border trade regulations, market dynamics, and multi-national business operations Exceptional track record in optimizing large-scale commercial assets and creating strategic partnerships with global retail brands across both regions
  • Feasibility Studies & Financial Modeling: Advanced expertise in conducting comprehensive feasibility studies for large-scale infrastructure projects, with particular focus on commercial viability, risk assessment, and long-term profitability Developed sophisticated financial models for major acquisitions, valuations, and joint ventures while at KPMG and leading real estate firms
  • Finance & Compliance: Strong foundation in financial governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance across India and GCC regions Led governance, risk, and compliance services for top real estate firms in India at KPMG, ensuring adherence to local and international standards Implemented robust internal control systems across multiple high-value projects
  • Network & Relationships: Cultivated an extensive network of senior-level relationships with developers, retail groups, investment firms, and government entities across India and the GCC Established strategic partnerships with major retail groups (Azadea, Alshaya, Jashanmal, Liwa, Al Futtaim, Chalhoub) and negotiated landmark deals with global brands Demonstrated ability to leverage relationships to secure high-value partnerships and investment opportunities

References

Available upon request

LANGUAGES

English (Fluent)
Hindi (Native)

Timeline

Founder & Strategic Advisor

RAAS (Retail-as-a-Service)
03.2025 - Current

Leasing & Revenue Optimization Lead

EMAAR MALLS
01.2023 - 03.2025

Senior Leasing Specialist - Retail & Commercial Expansion

DUBAI OUTLET MALL
09.2020 - 12.2022

Manager Leasing - Retail Development & Strategy

MAJID AL FUTTAIM
12.2018 - 04.2020

Leasing Manager - Real Estate Advisory & Investment

MSQUARED SHOPPING CENTERS
02.2016 - 11.2018

Director - Real Estate & Retail Startups

RETAIL ENTERPRISE AND LOGISTICS
12.2013 - 12.2015

Associate Director - Real Estate Investment Advisory

KPMG
09.2012 - 12.2013

General Manager - Real Estate & Infrastructure

RELIANCE INFRASTRUCTURE LTD
12.2008 - 09.2012

Senior Manager - Retail & Commercial Leasing

DLF LIMITED
04.2006 - 12.2008

Manager Leasing

ANSAL API
01.2005 - 04.2006

Assistant Manager Retail

UNITECH
04.2003 - 12.2004

Corporate Relationship Manager

CHITRALEKHA GROUP
01.2000 - 04.2003

MBA - Business Administration

Institute for Technology & Management

B.Sc. - Mathematics

Kanpur University

MBA - Business Administration & Management

Southern New Hampshire University

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