Accelerating Careers in Real Estate

This week, we sit down with Alison Crofton, Chief Property Officer for Homes England. Alison shares her insights into the importance of authenticity in leadership, misconceptions about government agencies, and the significant impact introverts can have in the industry.From her beginnings at Berkeley Group and other major residential developers to her current leadership at Homes England, Alison's journey highlights the value of decisiveness, mentorship, and embracing challenges.Alison reflects on her achievements, such as becoming one of the first female technical directors, and her experiences balancing career and personal life. She discusses the rewarding decision to join Homes England and the misconceptions about working in the public sector. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a short break, we're back with our first episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate for 2025. We sit down with Henry Lumby, Chief Commercial Officer of Auriens, to discuss his remarkable 20-year career in the UK later-living sector. Henry shares insights into the key role relationships play in securing and retaining investors, working with agents, and building loyalty in the construction industry. From his beginnings as a high street agent in Bournemouth, through impactful roles at Savills, Landmark, and Quantum, to his current leadership at Auriens, Henry's journey illustrates the importance of resilience, hard work, and strategic thinking.Henry shares his insights into the later living sector, reflecting on his achievements, setbacks, and legacy in real estate including his experiences during the 2008 financial crisis and COVID-19 pandemic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating Career Success in Real Estate Development with John MoffatIn this episode of 'Accelerating Careers in Real Estate,' host Nick Carman interviews John Moffat, Managing Director of Capital & Centric. John shares his career journey from a novice in property development to leading significant regeneration projects in the UK. The episode covers his early influences, biggest career challenges, including crisis management and dealing with unplanned events, and his passion for social impact in urban regeneration. John also discusses the skills and mindset necessary for success in property development, and his future ambitions for scaling social impact across the UK.Come and join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/Connect with John at linkedin.com/in/john-moffat-b9559b48Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode00:00 Introduction and Early Career Struggles00:29 Welcome and Guest Introduction01:04 Misconceptions and Major Decisions01:59 Career Challenges and Worst Days02:43 Passion Projects and Daily Life04:45 Early Career and Education06:55 First Job and Learning the Ropes12:04 Navigating the Credit Crunch20:19 Emergence of Built to Rent21:36 Joining Capital Centric26:14 Leadership and Management Insights33:57 Future Goals and Conclusion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So welcome back to another episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate. I'm your host Nick Carman and today I sit down with James Raynor, Chief Executive of Grosvenor Property UK, to dive into his extensive and dynamic career. From his unexpected start at RBS to building a successful business in Paris, and transitioning to Grosvenor in 2004, James shares the pivotal decisions and challenges that shaped his path. We discuss his experiences managing through the global financial crisis, navigating diverse European markets, and leading through the COVID-19 pandemic. James reflects on the importance of seizing opportunities, fostering team collaboration, and adapting to change. He provides valuable insights into leadership, strategic decision-making, and personal growth within the real estate industry. Join us for an inspiring conversation with James Raynor as he shares his journey and the lessons learned along the way.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:21 Quickfire Questions with James Raynor02:51 James Raynor's Early Career at RBS08:54 Transition to Grosvenor Property UK11:05 Navigating Challenges and Learning from the GFC15:33 Expanding Horizons in Asia19:03 Navigating Diverse Markets and Cultures20:25 Transition to Grosvenor UK20:52 Facing Personal and Professional Risks24:46 The Impact of COVID-1933:20 Current Leadership and Strategy36:30 Work Ethic and Team Dynamics39:18 Embracing Discomfort for Growth41:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second episode of the "DE&I Allyship" series on the Accelerating Careers in Real Estate podcast, the focus shifts from personal journeys to how we can all foster advocacy and allyship in real estate. Chair Jane Hollinshead leads a discussion on the essential role hiring and line managers play in creating a more inclusive workplace. Joining the conversation are industry experts Priya Shah, Ceri Moyers, and Sarah Hayford, who share insights on how inclusion efforts impact retention, recruitment, and creating supportive environments.This episode delves into practical strategies for tackling tough DE&I topics, reducing biases in leadership, and how organisations can embed DE&I into their core values, rather than treating it as a separate initiative. Real-life experiences are shared to demonstrate how conscious efforts in allyship can transform career trajectories and workplace cultures.Connect with the Panel:Jane Hollinshead: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-hollinshead-60283a16/Priya Shah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-aggarwal-shah-b1719469/ Ceri Moyers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceri-moyers-79619a15/Sarah Hayford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhayford/Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction by Nick Carman, framing the importance of DE&I01:00 – Jane Hollinshead introduces the panel and the episode's focus on early career advocacy02:00 – Priya Shah on creating inclusive environments and addressing systemic issues03:00 – Ceri Moyers shares strategies to retain mid-level women in real estate05:00 – Sarah Hayford discusses outreach to underrepresented youth and early career support06:00 – Addressing socioeconomic barriers to entry in real estate09:00 – Understanding bias in hiring and how to challenge assumptions12:00 – The role of line managers in shaping inclusive workplace cultures16:00 – Emotional intelligence in management: understanding different work styles18:00 – Supporting women in leadership and addressing performance biases22:00 – Managing sensitive DE&I conversations in the workplace26:00 – Priya Shah on handling microaggressions and exclusionary language30:00 – Importance of allyship and addressing fear of "getting it wrong"36:00 – Exploring the backlash against DE&I initiatives and rethinking approaches40:00 – Final thoughts: creating a culture of learning, empathy, and active support for diversity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate ESPRESSO, host Nick Carman revisits the career journey of Mark Woodrow recorded in the winter of 2020, then joint Managing Director of Packaged Living. The discussion reflects on Woodrow's experience during the 2008 financial crisis while working at Grainger, where he witnessed significant challenges but also embraced opportunities that shaped his career. Mark and co-founder Ed Ellerington navigated these tumultuous times, leading to the establishment of Packaged Living, a leading BTR development investment company. The episode highlights Woodrow's resilience, the evolution of the build-to-rent sector, and the strategic growth ambitions of Packaged Living, set against the backdrop of the 2020 pandemic.00:00 Introduction to Accelerating Careers in Real Estate00:45 Mark Woodrow's Early Career and the 2008 Recession03:07 Grainger's Recovery and the Rise of Build to Rent06:42 The Formation of Packaged Living08:42 Ambitions and Future of Packaged Living10:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So this evening we have a very important episode, I set up the pod to draw a straight line between accelerating in your career with constant learning, so today we have a critical lesson to share. How to be a confident ally is rarely tackled, despite universal support for a more inclusive sector, yet what we can ALL do to improve this is too often throttled by fear.In the first of the two-part ‘DE&I Allyship’ exclusive series of the Accelerating Careers in Real Estate podcast, guest, Sue Brown, Managing Director of Real Estate Balance, hosts the conversation where first-hand experiences, issues, and solutions to foster more inclusive workplaces are discussed. Episode one features Faith Locken, founder of We Rise In and former Development Manager at Countryside and JLL, conferring with Gafar Fashola, Chair of BPF Futures and Vanessa Murray, Founder of The Circle Partnership.Connect with our panel:linkedin.com/in/sue-brown-62a19415linkedin.com/in/faith-locken-710b2263linkedin.com/in/gafar-fashola-6b6636112linkedin.com/in/vanessa-murray-9b03276300:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:53 Meet the Panelists01:46 Gafar's Journey into Real Estate03:05 Vanessa's Unique Path05:16 Faith's Story and We Rise In06:23 Challenges in Real Estate Diversity12:06 Strategies for Inclusion20:34 Navigating Career Challenges and Seeking Mentorship22:00 The Importance of Sponsorship in Career Advancement23:36 Diversity and Inclusion: From Grad Level to Senior Management25:02 Real Estate Education and Industry Representation27:08 The Role of Senior Managers in Promoting Diversity27:53 Rethinking Qualifications and Career Paths in Real Estate30:26 Personal Experiences and Microaggressions in the Workplace33:51 Mentorship Differences and Confidence Building37:32 The Importance of Allyship and Active Support40:30 Final Thoughts and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So welcome back to another Espresso episode of Accelerating Careers in Real Estate. I'm your host Nick Carman and today I get to revisit one of our most popular episodes of all time. Amelia Bright, Executive Director of the London Estate for Grosvenor.At the time of recording in 2020, Amelia had built a career of 13 years with the same employer, working in London and San Francisco. So how would she manage to maintain that steep learning curve whilst navigating the obstacles impeding her growth? The conversation highlights her journey from biochemistry student to real estate professional, the critical lessons learned about influencing without direct control, and her leadership philosophy focused on empowering her team. Amelia also reflects on the importance of hard work, seizing opportunities, and the non-linear path to success.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 Amelia Bright's Early Career and University Days01:57 Transition to Real Estate and Career Growth03:07 Challenges and Lessons in Development04:57 Leadership and Management Insights07:09 Secrets to Career Success07:56 Reflections and Future Plans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 'Accelerating Careers in Real Estate,' I interview Emily Hamilton, the Chief Sustainability Officer for Savills's Investment Management. Emily shares her inspiring journey from an early passion for nature to leading sustainability initiatives in the real estate investment sector. She discusses her transformative experience volunteering in Ecuador, her early career steps, significant roles at Grosvenor, and her current position at Savills Investment Management, where she aims to make a lasting environmental and social impact. Emily emphasizes the importance of storytelling, leadership, and community engagement in driving sustainability initiatives.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:44 Emily's Early Passion for Nature02:51 First Steps in Sustainability04:35 Building a Career in Environmental Consultancy05:41 University of East London Experience07:36 Joining Grosvenor and Early Challenges12:39 Transformational Leadership at Grosvenor23:17 Transition to Savills Investment Management32:34 Current Role and Future Aspirations34:56 Conclusion and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this espresso edition, recorded in Autumn 2020, I get to revisit my conversation with Matt Townend, to discuss his impressive career spanning nearly two decades with major London developers. Townend shares candid reflections on early set-backs, professional growth, dealing with stress, and the importance of balance in life. Highlights include his impactful tenure at Battersea Power Station and his shift from technical expertise to people management. This episode dives deep into the personal and professional evolution of a real estate leader and the lessons learned along the way.00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:38 Meet Matt Townend: Career Highlights01:04 Early Career Struggles and Lessons Learned02:25 The Importance of Balance and Mindfulness03:52 Insights from Colleagues and Mentors05:50 Battersea Power Station: A Landmark Project10:20 Evolving Leadership Skills13:39 Personal Reflections and Legacy15:59 Conclusion and Closing Remarks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 'Accelerating Careers in Real Estate,' I sit down with John Forrester, the Chair of Innovo Real Estate Development and former group CEO of Cushman & Wakefield, once described as a fire axe placed behind the emergency glass. John shares his humble beginnings, initially wanting to become a vet but ultimately finding his way into real estate after working as an estate agent. He candidly discusses his meteoric career trajectory, pivotal moments, and the importance of learning from failures. With a career spanning over three decades, John also delves into the challenges and successes of managing and merging major real estate firms through turbulent times. As he transitions to his current role focusing on real estate development, John reflects on the lessons learned and his drive to continue making an impact in the industry.00:00 Introduction and Proudest Achievement01:10 Early Career Beginnings03:00 Rising Through the Ranks03:54 Key Lessons and Turning Points05:44 Leadership and Team Dynamics09:01 Navigating Challenges and Growth10:44 Becoming CEO and Facing Bankruptcy19:42 Decisions and Loyalty24:49 Harnessing Fearlessness for Team Success25:03 Navigating Tough Times as a CEO25:46 The UGL Acquisition and Strategic Growth25:54 The Role of Management in Successful Acquisitions27:17 UGL's Strategic Shift and Financial Challenges28:31 The Sale to Private Equity and Global Expansion32:04 Lessons from Past Acquisitions35:42 Leadership and Personal Growth41:57 Reflecting on Career Achievements and Challenges44:52 Future Endeavors and Personal Goals47:41 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan Trbizan: From Ljubljana to London's Super Prime Real EstateIn this episode, I recap my conversation with Jan Trbizan from 2020. At the time, Jan was the Technical and Design Director for Northacre, a brand synonymous with London's super prime properties. Jan's journey began in Ljubljana, Slovenia, with aspirations of becoming a surgeon before pivoting to architecture. He navigated through the tight-knit professional circles of Slovenia and made a bold move to London in 2009 amidst a hiring freeze due to recession. Through perseverance, including sending nearly 1000 CVs and making direct appeals to firms, he landed a role at Squire and Partners, where he built a successful career. Jan discusses the differences between working as a consultant versus client-side, emphasizing the broader perspective and appreciation he gained for the complexity of real estate projects. This episode highlights Jan's determination, adaptability, and growth as an architect and developer in the real estate industry.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:19 Jan Trbizan's Early Career in Slovenia01:19 Challenges in the Slovenian Professional Scene02:04 Breaking into the London Architecture Scene02:22 The Struggle to Find a Job in 200903:03 A Creative Approach to Job Hunting04:39 Landing the Job at Squire and Partners06:36 Transition to Northacre and Client-Side Insights07:18 The Broader Perspective of Architecture08:51 Conclusion and Podcast Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.