Gilbert is a globally recognised placemaking expert, known for creating vibrant and resilient places. Over the past 30 years, he has collaborated with more than 2,500 cities and communities worldwide. A sought-after speaker and master facilitator, he is skilled at unlocking potential and engaging stakeholders. Previously, the General Manager of Chadstone Shopping Centre, Gilbert also developed and managed Melbourne’s iconic Queen Victoria Night Markets. He pioneered the application of shopping centre management principles to main streets and went on to found Village Well, Australia’s first placemaking consultancy.
Passionate about people, places, and the planet, Gilbert has delivered projects across Australia, the Middle East, Mauritius, and beyond, shaping successful mixed-use precincts. His expertise spans market concept development, branding, operations, and management. Today, his focus is on regenerative placemaking, a field in which he has become one of the world’s most recognised leaders.