Danny Lubert

Danny Lubert vast experience of major global property markets and aptitude for detecting opportunities in key emerging markets has proven key to The First Group’s growth to date. Under his guidance, the group of companies has expanded its presence in major markets including the United Kingdom, Spain, Cyprus, South East Asia, West Africa, CIS countries, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. With a background in commerce and mathematics, Danny Lubert specialises in financial structuring, acquisition and marketing.

Rashad Barajakly

Rashad is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in finance, investment banking, and operations, with an expansive career spanning both the United States and UAE.

Before moving to Dubai, Rashad held several pivotal roles in New York and Atlanta. Rashad then joined the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and from there went on to join the DIFX where he played an integral part in the launch of the DIFX, demonstrating his capability to navigate and innovate within complex financial landscapes. His journey continued through notable positions at various investment firms, honing his expertise in navigating both the public and private sector.

Joining The First Group in 2009, initially as Chief Investment Officer, Rashad quickly became a keystone of the company’s financial and commercial expansion. His promotion to Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer in 2017 marked the culmination of years of dedicated service. Under his stewardship and business acumen, Rashad has been instrumental in the development of the group’s real estate portfolio and expansion of the group’s multifaceted hospitality and asset management business, which underscores Rashad’s commitment and his critical contribution to the group’s success.

Apo Demirtas

Apo brings a wealth of experience and a remarkable track record of success in the hospitality industry to his role as Chief Strategy Officer at TFG Hospitality. His impressive career includes serving as the Head of Revenue Strategy for Hilton Hotels Corp, where he led the commercial strategy for Hilton's owned and managed hotels in North America. He also held the position of Vice President of Market Strategy for IHG the Americas before joining the Jumeirah Hotel Group as Chief Commercial Officer in 2007. His tenure at these prestigious organizations showcases his ability to drive growth and innovation in the hospitality sector.

In 2012, Apo founded HotelIQ, an industry-leading decision intelligence tool that addresses the need for robust, real-time data analytics in the hotel industry. Today, HotelIQ is used by hotel operators in more than 30 countries across five continents, including TFG Hospitality, reflecting Apo's visionary approach to leveraging data for strategic decision-making.

Apo holds a vocational high school diploma in Hotel Management, followed by a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Hotel Management, ultimately earning his Doctorate degree in Applied Economics.

Apo harnesses his deep industry knowledge and strategic expertise to guide and lead TFG Hospitality towards excellence and profitable growth.

Amr Al Bawab

Amr boasts more than 35 years’ experience working on major projects for high-profile multinational firms and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Detroit in the US.

Amr has been with The First Group for more than a decade, having played an instrumental role in the company’s success to date. As Chief Construction Officer, Amr manages The First Group’s complex development timeline, ensuring projects are planned and executed to the highest standards.