Burns began his career with The First Group as Chief Marketing Officer before being promoted to CEO. The First Group offers property development and specialized services, international hotel investments, and property asset management, as well as global investor services. In March 2023, The First Group launched Soluna Beach Club, a contemporary Mediterranean-inspired waterfront experience at the Balqis Residences in Palm Jumeirah. The group is set to launch its flagship hotel, Ciel, in Q1 2024, which is set to be the tallest hotel in the world with 82 stories. Burns has 37 years of industry experience. He started his career in property development in 1986 and has worked in the U.S., the U.K., Europe, CIS, Africa, and the Middle East.