Leading one of Thailand's most influential retail and property development firms, Ms Wallaya's impact transcends mere success, she is a visionary architect of Thailand's retail future.
Her tenure at CPN has been marked by groundbreaking achievements, with her leadership steering the company towards unprecedented heights. Under her guidance, the company successfully launched multiple shopping centre projects, shaping the course of the country's retail history in the process.
Her accolades speak volumes of her leadership prowess. Recognised as one of Forbes Asia's top 20 businesswomen in 2022, Ms Wallaya has been lauded for her exceptional achievements in driving organisational success and fostering remarkable growth despite various challenges. In 2023, she clinched the prestigious 'Thailand Top CEO of the Year' award in the real estate business category, a testament to her outstanding management vision and strategy.
Ms Wallaya's visionary leadership has also garnered international acclaim, with CPN receiving three major awards from the IAA Awards for Listed Companies 2022, including 'Best CEO', 'Best CFO', and 'Best Investor Relations'. These accolades underscore CPN's excellence in business and financial management, cementing its position as a global leader in the industry.
Furthermore, Ms Wallaya's commitment to sustainability has propelled CPN to new heights. With CPN listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for real estate management and development, as well as S&P Global’s The Sustainability Yearbook 2024, CPN continues to set the benchmark for sustainability in the industry.
Notably, CPN is ranked No.1 globally in the real estate management and development sector in the DJSI, a testament to Ms Wallaya's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
Ms Wallaya's journey has not just been about corporate success; it's also deeply intertwined with her family's legacy. Joining the family business empire at just 23, she embarked on a mission to revolutionise the retail landscape. Overseeing the transformation of Central Supermarket into the iconic Tops brand, she demonstrated her keen business acumen and innovative spirit.
Transitioning to the role of co-chief executive in her 30s, Ms Wallaya spearheaded the revitalisation of Robinson and the development of Central Phuket, marking significant milestones in her career. Her foray into property development at CPN in 2005 was a natural progression, combining her expertise in retail with her passion for innovation.
Ms Wallaya's crowning achievement came with the redevelopment of the World Trade Center, now CentralWorld, which received the prestigious "Best of The Best Award" from the International Council of Shopping Centers in 2010.
This accolade not only recognised design excellence but also successful sales, showcasing Ms Wallaya's multifaceted approach to retail development.
Despite Thailand's slow economic recovery, the company also remains committed to substantial investment plans for sustainable growth. Between 2023-2027, CPN plans to develop five mega mixed-use projects in various strategic locations in Bangkok, with the total investment exceeding 100 billion baht.
Central Park, part of this ambitious strategy, is poised to debut in the third quarter of 2025 and is set to redefine Bangkok's urban landscape, akin to iconic parks in New York and London.
