The First Group Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

The First Group has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, financial oversight, and brand marketing.

Committed to excellence in international real estate development, The First Group delivers landmark hospitality assets and premium residential properties while maintaining a robust portfolio of income-generating investments across global markets.

Leadership Roles at The First Group

  • Chief Executive Officer - Robert Burns
  • Chief Financial Officer - Paul Gyles
  • Chief Operating Officer - Kharm Kamuntu
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Joseph Ruby
  • Robert Burns - Chief Executive Officer

    Robert Burns, the Chief Executive Officer at The First Group, directs the overarching strategic vision for international real estate development and hospitality management. Burns architects the long-term growth trajectory, ensuring alignment between property development goals and the expansion of the proprietary hospitality brand, The First Collection. By overseeing high-level partnerships with global entities like Marriott, the Chief Executive Officer secures the company's position as a premier end-to-end solutions provider. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market opportunities across the United Kingdom, Southeast Asia, and the United Arab Emirates to maximize asset value. Robert Burns maintains rigorous standards for landmark developments, driving the organization toward consistent recognition at the Arabian Property Awards. Through decisive management of the executive team, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of innovation, ensuring that every residential and lifestyle project meets the evolving demands of international investors and hotel guests alike.

    Paul Gyles - Chief Financial Officer

    Paul Gyles, the Chief Financial Officer at The First Group, governs the financial health and investment strategies that underpin the company's real estate development model. Gyles architects the capital structure for new projects, providing investors with secure access to income-generating hospitality assets. By overseeing fiscal planning and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains a strong balance sheet while pursuing growth in markets like Spain and Cyprus. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive board to evaluate the financial viability of landmark developments and lifestyle venues. Paul Gyles monitors global economic trends to protect the company's interests and optimize returns for property owners. Through the implementation of robust financial controls and transparent reporting, the Chief Financial Officer supports the long-term sustainability of the organization, ensuring that every investment opportunity aligns with the strategic objectives established for the international hospitality portfolio.
    Paul Gyles

    Kharm Kamuntu - Chief Operating Officer

    Kharm Kamuntu, the Chief Operating Officer at The First Group, manages the daily execution of hospitality operations and property management services across the diverse portfolio. Kamuntu optimizes the performance of the seven operational hotels in the United Arab Emirates, ensuring that service delivery aligns with the standards of the Tribute Portfolio. Overseeing the integration of food and beverage outlets with residential properties, the Chief Operating Officer drives operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. This role requires constant coordination with asset management teams to maintain the quality of income-generating hospitality assets. Kharm Kamuntu monitors regional performance metrics to ensure that operational workflows support the company's broader expansion goals in West Africa and CIS countries. By streamlining internal processes and enhancing the guest experience, the Chief Operating Officer secures the operational stability necessary for sustained growth, directly impacting the profitability of every managed venue within the expansive international real estate footprint.

    Joseph Ruby - Chief Marketing Officer

    Joseph Ruby, the Chief Marketing Officer at The First Group, directs the global brand strategy and market positioning for all residential and hospitality developments. Ruby architects comprehensive campaigns that highlight the unique value proposition of property ownership opportunities to an international audience. By overseeing the brand identity of The First Collection, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent messaging across diverse territories including the United States and Southeast Asia. This role involves analyzing consumer behavior to tailor marketing initiatives that drive interest in landmark projects and lifestyle venues. Joseph Ruby collaborates with sales teams to translate market insights into effective outreach strategies, ultimately increasing the visibility of the company's portfolio. Through the strategic promotion of the brand's alignment with global hospitality leaders, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the company's reputation, ensuring that the organization remains a top choice for investors seeking premium real estate assets in prime locations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The First Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The First Group?
    The First Group is led by Robert Burns (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Paul Gyles (Chief Financial Officer) and Kharm Kamuntu (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of The First Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of The First Group includes leaders such as Robert Burns (Chief Executive Officer), Paul Gyles (Chief Financial Officer), Kharm Kamuntu (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The First Group have?
    The First Group has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The First Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The First Group includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer.