Sotheby’s real estate arm will be expanding its management team in Asia, with three senior hires, to further develop the company’s network of real estate affiliates in the region.

“In just eight years, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand has grown to more than 40 countries and territories worldwide, and for 2012 the market in Asia is our number one focus for growth,” Michael Good, chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, said in a statement released this week.

Brand affiliates in Asia include: Hong Kong Sotheby’s International Realty; Hunter Sotheby’s International Realty in Thailand; New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty; Vietnam Sotheby’s International Realty; Taiwan Sotheby’s International Realty and Japan Sotheby’s International Realty.

“The economic growth and the emerging leadership of Asia in the world economy mean significant opportunities for referral business throughout the world for our network. Our first priority will be to identify potential affiliates in China, India, Australia, Singapore, South Korea and other key locations in the Pacific Rim,” Good continued.

The firm said it is committed to creating a significant servicing hub in Hong Kong to further support the growth in the region. It also will focus on continuing to leverage its close working relationship with the Sotheby’s Auction House in Hong Kong.

The real estate specialist has three new management positions that will be based in Asia, for which it is currently seeking candidates: vice president of global development; vice president of global servicing; and director of marketing. Those executives will be responsible for accelerating the brand’s development throughout Asia and for supporting its network of affiliates, Sotheby’s said.