Its highest honour, it was awarded in recognition of Leissner's contribution, inspiring vision and astute leadership, all of which benefited the industry over a 45-year successful career.
He is acknowledged as a pioneer, having introduced systems and processes and set standards for shopping centre development, leasing and management in the '70s and '80s, with a vision ahead of its time that others could emulate. Leissner holds directorships at JSE listed Redefine, The Johannesburg Housing Company and the Housing Development Agency and was formerly CEO of Anglo American Property Services and ApexHi Properties.