How Dora Chng is redefining leadership in real estate: A power woman who’s shaping the future

With a focus on innovation and empowering women, Dora Chng is setting new standards for success in the real estate industry 

In an industry where change is constant, leadership is defined by those who adapt and influence the direction of the future. Dora Chng has demonstrated this leadership in Singapore’s real estate sector. As the Residential Director at GuocoLand, she has been involved in the development of significant projects like Guoco Tower and Guoco Midtown, contributing to the city’s evolving skyline. Her work has earned her respect in an industry where women’s leadership is still an emerging force. 

With nearly 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, and leasing of residential properties, Dora has become a leading force in the conceptualisation and execution of GuocoLand’s residential projects. Her portfolio includes some of Singapore’s most iconic developments, including the ultra-luxurious Wallich Residence, Martin Modern, Meyer Mansion, Leedon Residence, and Midtown Modern. These developments, along with more recent projects like Lentor Modern and Lentor Mansion, demonstrate Dora’s innovative approach to residential design, placing an emphasis on quality, sustainability, and connectivity. 

In recognition of her significant contributions to the industry, Dora was named the Power Woman 2024 at the PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit VIP Cocktail Party, an award that acknowledges women who have made remarkable strides in real estate and continue to inspire and elevate others in the industry. 

A trailblazer in real estate 

Dora’s career reflects a deep commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative projects while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in residential development. Her involvement in the development of Guoco Tower, Singapore’s tallest building, and Guoco Midtown, one of the city’s largest mixed-use developments, showcases her ability to manage large-scale, complex projects while maintaining a focus on both design and functionality. 

Beyond her technical expertise, Dora plays an integral role in the product development and marketing strategies behind these projects. For example, Lentor Modern, a transit-oriented development, is helping to transform the Lentor Hills estate into a vibrant and sustainable community. Similarly, the development of Lentor Mansion, a luxury 533-unit project inspired by Singapore’s iconic black-and-white bungalows, is a testament to her ability to blend local architectural heritage with modern design. 

Dora’s leadership in shaping these projects speaks to her strong business acumen and her ability to manage not just the logistical aspects of large developments, but also the strategic marketing and positioning required to ensure their success.

Championing women in real estate 

For Dora, leadership goes beyond personal success—it is about lifting others up and creating opportunities for women to thrive. In her own words, “As a leader in the real estate industry, I am hoping to create more opportunities for everyone across the whole spectrum.” She firmly believes that women must work hard to earn respect and, when opportunities arise, know when to seize them. Her commitment to mentoring and providing guidance to younger colleagues in the company and in the broader industry underscores her dedication to fostering the growth of others. 

Dora’s belief in the importance of mentorship is evident in her active efforts to support and empower the next generation of leaders in real estate. Through her involvement with GuocoLand, she has helped create an environment where women are encouraged to excel and take on leadership roles. She sees this as crucial not only for the company’s success but also for the advancement of the industry as a whole. “I also hope to be able to provide mentorship to younger colleagues in the company and in the industry so that we can all learn, share, and make things even better,” Dora explains. 

Building a more inclusive industry 

Dora’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration and inclusivity. Her work in promoting gender diversity within GuocoLand and across the broader real estate sector speaks to her belief in equal representation and opportunity for women. This aligns with the theme of International Women’s Day 2025, “Accelerate Action,” which emphasises the need for women to be empowered to take leadership roles and make lasting changes within their industries. 

More: Breaking ground: Power Women lay the foundation for the real estate industry’s future

Through her efforts, Dora is helping to create a more inclusive and diverse real estate sector. She encourages women to break through societal barriers and take charge of their careers. By sharing the stories of successful women in real estate, Dora hopes to inspire others to step into leadership roles, knowing they are not alone in their journey. She views leadership as an ongoing process of learning and sharing, where women can support and uplift one another, fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to succeed. 

Looking ahead: A vision for the future 

As Dora looks toward the future of real estate, she is driven by the belief that women’s leadership is crucial to creating more sustainable and inclusive communities. Her work at GuocoLand reflects this vision, as the company continues to develop projects that not only meet the demands of today but also anticipate the needs of future generations. Dora’s leadership is shaping not just the physical landscape of Singapore but also the cultural landscape of the real estate industry, creating space for more women to lead and innovate. 

Dora Chng’s recognition as the Power Woman 2024 is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her contributions to the real estate industry. Her work continues to inspire those around her, and her mentorship ensures that the next generation of women in real estate will have the opportunity to build upon the foundation she has laid. As we celebrate International Women’s Month, Dora’s journey serves as a reminder that the future of real estate—and of leadership—is bright, inclusive, and driven by the shared success of everyone. 

This article was originally published on asiarealestatesummit.com. Write to our editors at [email protected].

Watch her interview, alongside other Power Women 2024, here: