When the lights switch on in a towering office, when systems hum in the background without disruption, and when employees walk into safe, clean, and efficient spaces—few pauses to think about the people who make it happen. Behind this seamless orchestration stands a network of professionals who keep the modern workplace running. And leading this mission in the Middle East is Viral Mistry, the Business Unit Lead and Operations Lead for CBRE Excellerate, based in Dubai.
His story is not only about scaling corporate ladders but also about reshaping how facilities management is perceived: as an engine for innovation, sustainability, and human well-being.
Building a Legacy of Knowledge and Leadership
With more than 15 years of experience in Facilities Management, Corporate Real Estate, Administration, and Operations, Viral has built a career defined by expertise, resilience, and vision. Today, the visionary leader serves as Business Unit Lead and Operations Lead for CBRE Excellerate in Dubai, overseeing the Middle East portfolio and managing multiple Fortune 500 client accounts.
His journey began with a strong technical foundation, earning both a Diploma and Degree in Electrical Engineering, and was strengthened by not one but three MBAs in Business Administration, Human Resources, and Finance. This rare blend of technical expertise and managerial skill allows him to handle complex, large-scale projects with confidence.
His professional path has been marked by high-impact roles. At ISS Facilities Services, Viral managed 250+ clients and a workforce of 7,000 employees as Associate Vice President. Before that, at Sodexo, he oversaw global accounts like Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, and Kenvue, delivering exceptional facilities management solutions across South Asia.
In recognition of his contributions, BW Business World named him among the “Top 40 Facilities Management Leaders under 40” in 2024, following a competitive selection process of over 125 candidates. Adding to this, the visionary leader is currently pursuing IFMA certifications—Sustainable Facilities Professional (SFP) and Certified Facilities Manager (CFM)—to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.
Yet beyond credentials and accolades, Viral’s greatest motivation has been the power of mentorship. Throughout his career, he has helped colleagues overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and climb to senior positions. “Watching them flourish and seeing the direct impact of my guidance is incredibly satisfying,” he says. This philosophy of empowerment has shaped his leadership journey.
Redefining Real Estate Services at CBRE Excellerate
CBRE Excellerate provides a wide spectrum of services designed to turn real estate into a competitive advantage. Its portfolio includes:
- Advisory & Transaction Services
- Data Centre Solutions
- Integrated Facilities Management
- Project Management & Development
- Property Management
- Valuations & Advisory
These services don’t just manage space; they optimize costs, enhance productivity, and improve workplace experiences, from retail hubs to data centers to corporate headquarters.
A Client-Centric Business Model
At its core, CBRE Excellerate’s business model is customized and client-driven. “We have a robust mechanism to reach out to clients, and we offer tailored solutions to meet their needs,” says Viral. This flexibility ensures relevance and long-term value.
Leading with Impact in the Middle East
In his current role, Viral manages a diverse portfolio of Fortune 500 accounts across business lines such as Integrated Facilities Management, Security, Artificial Intelligence, Automation, Sustainability, Digitization, Robotics, and Project Management. His achievements include automation projects, employee well-being programs, and successful transitions of major sites across the UAE. Each initiative demonstrates his ability to merge cutting-edge technology with human-centered outcomes.
Turning Challenges into Leadership Opportunities
Managing vast, multi-site operations is a test of resilience. Viral admits that challenges are frequent, whether in operations, logistics, or client expectations. Yet his mindset sets him apart: “I take challenges and difficulties as opportunities,” he says. By reframing obstacles as proving grounds, the visionary leader consistently turns adversity into evidence of his leadership skills and adaptability.
A Culture of Empowerment and Trust
What keeps CBRE Excellerate thriving is its open, empowering work culture. Employees are given ownership of their work, the freedom to make decisions, and the trust to operate in their comfort zones. Instead of micromanaging, Viral focuses on outcomes. This culture of trust fosters motivation, creativity, and innovation, keeping teams engaged while delivering for clients.
Leadership by Empowerment and Recognition
For Viral, leadership is a blend of peace, empowerment, and appreciation. The visionary leader avoids micromanagement, encourages autonomy, and makes it a priority to acknowledge his team’s efforts. “When my team feels motivated, I feel fulfilled,” he shares. His philosophy reflects a belief that success is shared and achieved when both leader and team grows together.
Celebrating Achievements and Milestones
CBRE Excellerate has built a reputation for excellence across Africa and the Middle East, earning prestigious awards such as:
- Golden Arrow Award (PMR.africa) – Multiple wins for facilities management excellence, including 2023.
- Best Property Service Group of the Year (2023) – By Africa Property Investment.
- EcoVadis Commitment Badge (2023) – For environmental responsibility.
- ME FM Awards (2025) – Shortlisted for Health, Safety, and Environmental Initiative of the Year.
- Client Recognition from Amazon (2025) – For contributions in Egypt.
- Landmark Contracts (2025) – Including a 51-story JBR tower in Dubai, Pearson Egypt, and HPE Egypt.
- Exceptional Awards (2023) – Celebrating internal excellence.
- Strategic Office Acquisition (South Africa) – Advised by the Capital Markets Team.
- Industrial Sale & Leaseback Opportunities (2025) – In Tunisia and Morocco.
These achievements highlight the company’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation— These are the values that Viral upholds daily.
Shaping the Future
Looking ahead, CBRE Excellerate plans to expand across Africa and the Middle East, enhance digital platforms like CBRE-X Online, and deepen its ESG-driven commitments. By integrating facilities management with advisory services, the company will continue to provide holistic, sustainable, and data-driven solutions.
Navigating the Market Landscape
Viral offers a candid perspective on the Middle East’s FM industry. It is, he says, a sector driven by:
- Mega-projects like NEOM, Lusail City, and Expo City Dubai.
- Sustainability and green initiatives, from LEED-certified buildings to eco-friendly infrastructure.
- Technology adoption-IoT, AI, robotics, and smart building systems.
- Outsourced integrated FM models, offering efficiency and expertise.
The visionary leader also acknowledges the challenges, skilled labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, cost pressures, but sees opportunity in technology, upskilling, logistics strategies, and integrated service offerings.
A Message to Readers
“The facilities management industry is often invisible,” Viral reflects. “When everything runs smoothly, our teams are behind the scenes making it possible.” For him, the industry is more than meeting KPIs; it’s about modernization, sustainability, and innovation. By empowering people, investing in technology, and embracing change, facilities management can transform workplaces into thriving ecosystems.
Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For entrepreneurs, Viral shares a simple philosophy: “The more you give, the more you grow.” Generosity, the visionary leader believes, fuels both intellectual and spiritual growth. His advice to the next generation of leaders is clear:
- Embrace continuous knowledge.
- Turn failures into learning.
- Prioritize evolution and precision.
- Deliver beyond expectations.
- Lead with humility and empathy.
“Entrepreneurship is not about one genius moment,” he explains. “It’s about consistency, resilience, and the courage to create.”