Building Affordable Housing: Colm Lacey's Journey in Real EstateIn this episode, of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate, I get to sit down with Colm Lacey, Founder and Director of Soft Cities, Chair of London's CLT, and Group Director of Capital Projects for New City College. Colm discusses his impressive career in housing and regeneration, sharing insights from his time at Brick by Brick, Lambeth, Newham, and Croydon Council. Colm talks with honesty about periods of huge growth, and success but also how he handled a very public downfall of Brick by Brick. Colm also reflects on his educational background, the challenges of delivering affordable housing, and his passion for improving public sector processes. The conversation offers a detailed look at Colm's professional journey, his vision for urban development, and the lessons learned along the way.Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode00:00 Introduction to the Guest: Colm Lacey01:00 Colm's Early Life and University Days02:02 First Steps in the Professional World03:14 Transition to Regeneration Projects04:32 Master's Degree and Career Realization07:57 Challenges and Successes in Brixton12:48 Strategic Role at Homes and Communities Agency18:11 Return to Newham and Olympic Legacy24:55 Transforming Croydon with Brick by Brick30:41 Career Challenges and Successes31:37 Brick by Brick: Context and Controversy33:41 Ambitions and Achievements36:25 Public Criticism and Reflection38:35 Political and Economic Challenges48:36 Transition to Soft Cities48:58 Quickfire Questions and Insights56:59 Future Plans and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate, I got to revisit, an interview from autumn 2020 with Caroline Harper, then Chief Planning Director for Be First. Caroline shares her unique path into real estate, driven by academia and a PhD, and discusses the personal traits that set her apart. She recounts her transition from private sector roles at CBRE and Jones Lang LaSalle to the public sector, including what her peers thought of her move. Followed by her responsibilities at Be First, and reflects on the blend of public and private sector strategies. Caroline also delves into how her motivations have evolved while emphasising her commitment to meaningful urban regeneration and community development.Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:40 Caroline Harper's Early Career and Unique Traits02:30 Role and Responsibilities at Be First03:38 Transition from Private to Public Sector05:39 Current Drivers and Personal Growth08:19 Making leaps in your learning09:07 Closing Remarks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Power of Saying Yes: Honor Barratt, CEO Birchgrove on Career Transformation and Innovation in Real EstateIn this episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate, I am joined by Honor Barratt, Chief Executive of Birchgrove. Honor shares her journey from working at McDonald's at 15, to selling timeshares, and a successful executive career in media before being approached to disrupt the later living sector of real estate. We delve into the transformative moments of her career, the importance of saying yes, and her fresh to later living solutions. Honor also reflects on the challenges of balancing work with personal life and the inherent sacrifices of being a CEO.Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:38 Honor Barratt's Early Career01:09 The Timeshare Experience03:40 Post-Graduation Adventures04:03 The Power of Saying Yes06:14 Challenges in the First Agency08:41 Building a Global Creative Agency10:51 Private Equity and Compromise14:10 The Law of the Jungle in Business16:59 Seeking New Challenges19:42 The Drive to Evolve and Innovate20:55 The Value of Executive Education22:55 Embracing Private Equity24:39 The Power of Saying Yes28:41 Recognizing and Overcoming Blind Spots30:37 The Birchgrove Vision34:22 Balancing Career and Parenthood36:33 The Future of Housing for the Elderly37:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In my latest ESPRESSO edition, I revisit my episode with Will Bax, who was then CEO of Retirement Villages Group, recorded in autumn 2020. Will shares his unique career journey, from leaving politics to making significant strides in the real estate sector, culminating in a leadership role overseeing a £5 billion London portfolio. Will discusses the importance of adaptability, resilience, and learning from personal tragedies, such as an avalanche accident that profoundly impacted his life and career. The episode highlights his approach to leadership, the challenges of managing larger teams, and his mindset towards seizing every opportunity and making the most of life."I love learning new things. I love innovating and I'm easily inspired"Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode00:00 Introduction to Accelerating Careers in Real Estate00:13 Revisiting Will Bax's Career Journey00:45 The Importance of Career Planning01:06 Early Career Reflections and Politics03:03 Developing Flexibility and Resilience06:09 Personal Tragedy and Career Impact09:42 Leadership Challenges and Growth12:03 Transition to Chief Executive13:24 Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 'Accelerating Careers in Real Estate,' I, have the pleasure of interviewing Rob Heasman, who takes us through his fascinating journey in the real estate world. From the early influences of his family to impactful roles in major property development firms, Rob's story is both inspiring and educational. He starts with his work experiences during his teens and meticulously moves through his career trajectory, including pivotal roles at Redrow Homes and the Berkeley Group. Rob delves into the nitty-gritty of key projects like Elephant Park with Lend Lease, the challenges of Euston Station redevelopment and shares significant decisions that led to his current role as Chief Executive at Earl's Court Development Company. Throughout our conversation, Rob opens up about his learnings, leadership style, and the vision that has driven his successful track record in urban planning and management.Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode00:00 Introduction to Accelerating Careers in Real Estate00:14 Early Influences and Family Background01:18 University Life and Early Career Choices03:21 First Professional Steps at Red Row Homes06:25 Transition to Barclay Group13:36 Joining Lendlease and Initial Challenges22:40 Building a Driven Team23:23 Master Planning and Early Phases24:10 Adapting to a New Environment26:29 Leadership and Vision27:38 Transitioning Roles29:08 Team Dynamics and Vision32:05 Reflecting on Career Moves33:46 Taking on New Challenges37:20 Joining Ells Court42:29 Lessons from Industry Leaders45:08 Final Thoughts and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In my latest ESPRESSO edition, I got to revisit my conversation with Gary McCluskey from 2020, he is the Managing Director, Global Design for Greystar, an architect for 25 years, his past catalogue as Strategic Design Advisor has covered nearly $5 billion worth of GDV. Gary shares a story filled with adventures in design and architecture across the living sector and his intense passion and inquisitive nature led him down paths many wouldn't have thought of. Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episodeYou can listen to the full episode at:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rcWkcJKseOaxRPD6IiG1J?si=k3a8Rl2TS5GXU5OMUUCTRAhttps://podcasts.apple.com/ug/podcast/episode-9-gary-mcluskey/id1506496352?i=1000490011243Key Highlights:Early Career and Success:[00:00:28] Gary McCluskey reflects on his 25-year career as an architect and Strategic Design Advisor, managing projects worth nearly £5 billion GDV.[00:01:00] Started in architecture after discovering a passion for drawing as a child. Early on, he realised the importance of enjoying his work environment and the projects he worked on.Career Evolution:[00:03:37] From starting at a young architect's practice to becoming a Strategic Design Advisor handling major projects across London. Gary emphasises the importance of enjoying work and the people you work with.Transition to Interior Design:[00:05:22] A pivotal moment at a house party led Gary to join Johnson Naylor as a director, bridging the gap between architecture and interior design. Notable projects include South Bank Place and Canary Wharf.Joining Greystar:[00:09:00] Recruited by Greystar after working with them as a client, Gary now leads design efforts in a company of 10,000 people across 15 countries. His focus is on global expansion and collaborative design.Lessons Learned:[00:10:30] Gary shares insights on time management and prioritising meaningful work throughout his career.Conclusion:[00:10:48] Nick Carman concludes with a reflection on Gary's journey, emphasising the importance of passion and purpose in career success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This evening I am joined by Jai Patel, Managing Director and Co-Head of Real Estate Debt for ICG. Jai shares his journey from a curious student to a key player in the real estate debt sector, providing valuable lessons and strategies for career growth in the industry. His career has traversed Lehman Brothers, Barclays, Amro Partners in debt, equity in UK and European Real Estate. Jai Patel's journey offers a blueprint for aspiring real estate professionals, highlighting the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and building meaningful relationships. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate and accelerate their career in the real estate industry."As a debt investor, you're a support partner. As an equity investor, you're driving the bus." [00:24:33]Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episodeEarly Beginnings: [00:00:51]Initial Career Steps: [00:02:17]Impact of the 2008 financial crisis and Lehman Brothers' collapse on his career.Returning to Barclays and finding his niche in structured property finance.Developing Expertise: [00:07:35]Challenges and growth in structured property finance.Mentorship and influential figures, like Richard Payne, in shaping his career.Expanding Horizons: [00:13:57]Transition to Longbow Real Estate Partners and subsequent acquisition by ICG.Learning the nuances of property investment and equity.Entrepreneurial Ventures: [00:21:00]Joining Amro Partners and building a business in student housing and built-to-rent sectors.Experiences in international markets, including a significant project in Spain.Return to ICG: [00:29:00]Becoming a portfolio manager and later co-head of European debt efforts.Emphasising the importance of building and managing a talented team.Maintaining inquisitiveness and listening as key leadership traits.Personal Insights: [00:34:43]The balance between personal life and career.Strategies for managing risk and making career decisions.The significance of building strong relationships and understanding stakeholders.Quick Fire Round: [00:35:05]How the industry has changed over Jai's career.Personal challenges and areas for improvement.Managing personal risk in career decisions.Key Takeaways:The importance of mentorship and learning from experienced professionals. [00:07:35]Balancing career ambitions with personal well-being. [00:13:05]The evolving nature of roles in real estate finance and the value of adaptability. [00:29:00]Building and maintaining strong professional relationships as a cornerstone for success. [00:34:43]Connect with Us:Host: Nick Carman on LinkedInGuest: Jai Patel on LinkedInSponsors:Macdonald & Company: The global real estate recruiter.Subscribe and listen to "Accelerating Careers in Real Estate" on your favourite podcast platform! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So welcome back to another episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate ESPRESSO series. Back in the autumn of 2020 I got to sit down with James Pellatt who at the time of talking was Innovation Director for one of London's largest commercial landlords Great Portland Estates, a title he had carved out based on what he had learnt and thought he could better contribute following a career as the project leader for delivering world-class buildings.James shares his experiences from his initial steps as a chartered building surveyor to his influential role in shaping London's commercial real estate landscape. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of managing significant projects, the evolution of his career, and his insights into the future of workspace innovation."I was so far out of my depth. It was late, had all sorts of issues, but everything I learned from that project, I have applied to my career ever since, even to this day." - James PellattCome and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episodeKey ChaptersIntroductionThe Early Days and First Project Management ExperienceThe Northcliffe House Project and Lessons in ResilienceCareer Progression and the Desire for InfluenceOvercoming Stress and Personal ChallengesThe Analogy of Stress and PersistenceTrusting the Team and Embracing InnovationThe Decision to Leave Comfort for GrowthThe Impact of Innovation and Smart Buildings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Nick Carman is joined by Derek Williams, Managing Director for Investor Relations at the Valesco Group. He has raised and deployed (either as a principal or advisor) circa $8 billion of capital over his career to date, which has been invested across real estate and private market strategies in Europe, the US and Asia-Pacific. Derek shares his journey from his early days in research to his senior roles in investment management with companies like Landsec, Global Student Accommodation, and Rothschild, leading up to his current position at Valesco Group. The conversation covers his career milestones, the challenges he faced, his leadership philosophy, and his continuous quest for learning and growth.Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episodeKey Points:Introduction to Derek Williams (00:00:00)Nick introduces Derek Williams and provides an overview of his career.Early Career and Interest in Real Estate (00:00:32)Derek discusses his initial interest in the real estate market during his school days in the 1980s.Learning from Mentors (00:03:16)Derek reflects on the values and professionalism he learned from his early mentors.Transition to Investment Management (00:04:16)Derek explains his move to investment management and his decision to pursue a master's degree at Cass Business School.Joining IPD and Early Management Experience (00:06:42)Derek discusses his role at IPD, managing a team, and the challenges he faced in his early management days.Role at Land Securities (00:09:13)Derek talks about his transition to Land Securities, working with Francis Solway, and the lessons he learned during this period.Expanding Horizons to Global Markets (00:14:00)Derek shares his desire to globalize his experience and his subsequent move to Russell Investments.Experiences at Russell Investments (00:16:00)Derek discusses launching global REIT products, his mentors, and his leadership experiences in the US.Entrepreneurial Ventures (00:21:00)Derek talks about reconnecting with his entrepreneurial spirit and his roles at B Finance and Global Student Accommodation.Current Role at Valesco Group (00:28:27)Derek describes his current role at Valesco Group, the company's unique approach, and his focus on growth and team spirit.Personal Reflections on Success (00:30:11)Derek shares his thoughts on success, the importance of learning, and maintaining personal relationships in his career.Conclusion: Derek Williams shares valuable insights into his career journey, highlighting the importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and taking calculated risks. His experiences offer a blueprint for aspiring real estate professionals looking to accelerate their careers.Sponsor: This podcast is brought to you by MacDonald and Company, the global real estate recruiter. Don't forget to click follow and leave a rating to ensure you never miss an episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Accelerating Careers in Real Estate: Neil Young's Journey with Nick CarmanIn this ESPRESSO episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate, host Nick Carman revisits his conversation with Neil Young from 2020, one of the pioneering figures in the UK's multifamily sector. Neil recounts his early career moves, the inception of Young London, and the establishment of the £2 billion REIT, Get Living. From his initial roles in hospitality and finance to his visionary step into real estate, Neil shares valuable insights and lessons learned from his journey."I remember we took on some service officers in Euston, which had about 70 desks. I remember going in there on the first day. And, um, sat in the corner with four of us and looked and there was no one else there."00:00 Introduction00:58 Early Career03:29 Starting Young London05:58 Building Get Living09:29 Reflections and Future Trends Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.