Jean-François Garneau is the Chief Development Officer and founder of INITIAL, a forward-thinking strategic planning and development services company with bases in Geneva, Switzerland, and Montreal, Canada. He is also the trailblazing founder and CEO of ALIŌ, a global advisory dedicated to integrating well-being into the very fabric of our everyday spaces. 

With an impressive four decades of multifaceted experience in real estate development and planning, particularly in the realms of resort projects, hospitality, and large mixed-use urban developments, JF has left his mark on the global development world. 

His creativity has shaped development strategies and provided innovative direction for projects in Europe, India, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, the US, and Canada, resulting in unforgettable and impactful resort, mixed-use, hospitality, and residential real estate ventures. 

Beyond his professional achievements, JF is a passionate advocate for the development and inclusion of wellness and well-being in communities and real estate. His influential leadership as co-chair of the Global Wellness Institute’s Initiative on Wellness Communities and Real Estate and past co-chair of the ULI Europe Hotels Resorts and Destinations Council exemplifies his commitment to shaping the future of our built environments. He is a regular speaker on the subjects of human-centred development, placemaking, and well-being in the built environment.