Paul Shipp to Succeed Matt Ainsaar as Managing Director of Urban Enterprise

Urban Enterprise announced today that after 36 years Matt Ainsaar, the founder and Managing Director, will step down from the role. Paul Shipp succeed Matt as the Managing Director effective from July 2025.

Matt will continue his involvement with Urban Enterprise as Executive Chairman, continuing to provide mentorship to the Directors as well as strategic advice to assist in the growth of the business. 

Paul Shipp has been part of the Urban Enterprise team for 20 years and has been an Executive Director for the past 10 years. Paul brings substantial leadership qualities and management capability to the role of Managing Director. Paul will continue to lead our urban economics and infrastructure contributions projects and act as an expert witness in these fields.

Matt Ainsaar, Executive Chairman, said: “Paul is an outstanding choice as Managing Director, leading the next phase of growth for Urban Enterprise and ensuring our clients continue to receive exceptional advice across all of our service streams.

Paul embodies our company values of quality, improvement, collaboration and integrity, and is known for his diligence, critical thinking and strategic approach. These values and skills make Paul a great fit for the role.

Paul will be closely supported by the Executive Directors in Mike Ruzzene, Todd Ainsaar and Kurt Ainsaar, consulting Directors and CFO. Together, this senior team will continue to pursue our mission under Paul’s leadership.”

Paul Shipp, incoming Managing Director, said: “It is a great honour to take on this role for Urban Enterprise, which under Matt's extraordinary leadership has become highly respected for providing quality advice to our wide range of clients across Australia.

I have seen our business and its impact grow over many years. I am excited to now lead our talented team, with Matt's ongoing counsel, during this critically important time for the places, economies and communities we work within."