Over the course of his 25+ year career, Chris Raywood has led the development of everything from German supermarkets to American burger restaurants. For the past six years, he’s headed up development at Oreana, a private property group that’s delivered more than 200 projects across Victoria. Having collaborated with UPco on more than a few of these, Chris took the time to share some insights into his professional journey, and what he’s learnt along the way.

You’ve had a long and interesting career, Chris. Where did it all begin?

Well, when I finished school, I knew I wanted to get into business in some form, whether it was accounting or commerce or law. When I stumbled across property, it felt like the right fit – I like that it’s tangible and relatable; something you can touch and feel and walk inside of. And when you study property, your career has a clear direction but there’s still plenty of scope to do different things, whether you work in valuations, agency, asset management or development.

After completing a graduate program with AMP, I joined McDonalds, rolling out its development program across the southern states, then onto ALDI which was a highly rewarding experience. It was back when ALDI was first launched in Australia, and my role involved securing sites and delivering the initial portfolio of stores in Victoria. The German efficiency was impressive and taught me a lot.

From there, I joined the Woolworths Group, which (in addition to supermarkets) own brands such as Dan Murphy’s, BWS, Woolworths Petrol, Masters, Big W and Dick Smith. Overseeing the growth of these store networks through leasing and development ensured I was immersed in all things retail property across the country.

How did you end up at Oreana?

After such a long time working for large retail businesses, I was curious to experience the private development sector. That was when I joined Oreana, a medium to large private development company that started as a small family-run operation around 20 years ago. Today Oreana has grown to become a multi-faceted property development, construction and investment business with exposure to multiple asset classes. Working mostly in the growth areas of Melbourne, we grow communities and their amenity through the development of residential homes, retail centres, early learning centres and other facilities necessary for communities to thrive. 

And when did UPco come into the picture?

I knew of the team back when it was SJB Planning but had little to do with them until I joined Oreana, which had engaged UPco for some time. I met Pete Doyle and was very impressed from day one. Sometimes when you’re new to a role, you want to bring in your own consultants, but I was more than happy to stick with the UPco formula. The team works on most of our retail, childcare and medium density townhome projects, and they really understand Oreana and how to manage our expectations.

What do you like most about being on the private developer side of the fence?

I love the fact it gives us the opportunity to exercise vision across every facet of a project and draw on all our skills and experience. I get to be involved with everything from looking at the design from a customer’s point of view, to planning and then construction. Once a project is complete, I can walk inside the finished product. What makes that even more satisfying is when you can see what that project is contributing to its local community.

What’s one project you’ve been proud to get off the ground?

One that springs to mind is Alira Village in Berwick – it’s a mixed use centre with 140 townhomes and a range of retail and other amenities, essential for residents in the area. We faced a lot of challenges with this one, between Covid interruptions and council requirements. But I think it’s come up really well from a design, public realm and functionality point of view.

Is there a job in progress you’re especially excited about?

I’d have to say Deanside Central Town Centre – we’re working towards getting planning permission for this at the moment. Our vision is to create a vibrant neighbourhood hub for the area, with a full line supermarket, medical centre, gym and a range of specialty shops. Oreana handles the leasing for projects like these too, and we work hard to get the mix of tenancies right for the local community. The Deanside town centre will bring local residents a range of exciting new shops, cafes, restaurants and other services within walking distance, which they don’t currently have.

Last question, and it’s not a work-related one! If you weren’t a developer, what would you be instead?

A professional yachtsman – I love to sail as part of a team. It can be a challenge and sometimes cold and uncomfortable! But it’s also exciting and incredibly satisfying. The days of smooth sailing always make up for the rough ones.

To learn more about Oreana, visit oreana.com.au

View all articles