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Jon Lawry is Goodwins’ specialist in short and mid-term accommodation, advising owners, investors, and partners operating at the premium end of the market.
Jon’s career spans over 25 years and many facets of property, including; construction, specialist valuation, corporate finance, and premium residential accommodation. Graduating with a BSc in Construction Management in the UK, he worked in Project Management before moving to Australia and transitioning into Specialised Asset Valuation. His valuation career culminated at KPMG, where he established and led the Tangible Asset Valuation Services division within Corporate Finance, delivering complex valuation work supporting major transactions and financial reporting.
After relocating to New Zealand, Jon identified a gap in the market for professionally managed, high end short and mid-term accommodation with a guest experience focus and founded The Urban Butler in 2017. He built the business into one of Auckland’s leading premium operators before successfully exiting in 2024 through a sale to an international group.
In 2022 Jon was appointed as the inaugural New Zealand board director at ASTRA (Australia and New Zealand Short Term Rental Association), where he advocated for professional standards and practical regulation during a period of significant industry change.
Jon is known for his commercial mindset, strong negotiation skills, and ability to structure practical solutions for complex property challenges. His approach is analytical, pragmatic, and relationship driven, focused on delivering outcomes that stand up commercially.
Jon’s network is far reaching and is testament to his curiosity to find commonality and create friendships with people from all walks of life. A recognised industry voice, Jon has presented at conferences across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Australia.
Outside of work he enjoys spending time with family, music, travel, cooking, snowboarding, diving, boating, and exploring great food and wine.
