In this highly popular real estate careers series, Macdonald & Company - with 30 years of experience recruiting in real estate - presents a compelling theory; From their network and thousands of interviews, they propose that everyone experiences a rapid learning and development phase when starting their career, which eventually slows into a period of consolidation. But what if, during this consolidation phase, we could unlock a way to regain that initial acceleration and continue growing? Join Macdonald & Company as they discuss this intriguing concept with industry experts.
Contact: connect@macdonaldandcompany.com
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In this highly popular real estate careers series, Macdonald & Company - with 30 years of experience recruiting in real estate - presents a compelling theory; From their network and thousands of interviews, they propose that everyone experiences a rapid learning and development phase when starting their career, which eventually slows into a period of consolidation. But what if, during this consolidation phase, we could unlock a way to regain that initial acceleration and continue growing? Join Macdonald & Company as they discuss this intriguing concept with industry experts.
Contact: connect@macdonaldandcompany.com
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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.
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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.
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Navigating Career Success in Real Estate Development with John Moffat
In 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.
00:00 Introduction and Early Career Struggles
00:29 Welcome and Guest Introduction
01:04 Misconceptions and Major Decisions
01:59 Career Challenges and Worst Days
02:43 Passion Projects and Daily Life
04:45 Early Career and Education
06:55 First Job and Learning the Ropes
12:04 Navigating the Credit Crunch
20:19 Emergence of Built to Rent
21:36 Joining Capital Centric
26:14 Leadership and Management Insights
33:57 Future Goals and Conclusion
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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 Overview
01:21 Quickfire Questions with James Raynor
02:51 James Raynor's Early Career at RBS
08:54 Transition to Grosvenor Property UK
11:05 Navigating Challenges and Learning from the GFC
15:33 Expanding Horizons in Asia
19:03 Navigating Diverse Markets and Cultures
20:25 Transition to Grosvenor UK
20:52 Facing Personal and Professional Risks
24:46 The Impact of COVID-19
33:20 Current Leadership and Strategy
36:30 Work Ethic and Team Dynamics
39:18 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
41:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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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.
00:00 – Introduction by Nick Carman, framing the importance of DE&I
01:00 – Jane Hollinshead introduces the panel and the episode's focus on early career advocacy
02:00 – Priya Shah on creating inclusive environments and addressing systemic issues
03:00 – Ceri Moyers shares strategies to retain mid-level women in real estate
05:00 – Sarah Hayford discusses outreach to underrepresented youth and early career support
06:00 – Addressing socioeconomic barriers to entry in real estate
09:00 – Understanding bias in hiring and how to challenge assumptions
12:00 – The role of line managers in shaping inclusive workplace cultures
16:00 – Emotional intelligence in management: understanding different work styles
18:00 – Supporting women in leadership and addressing performance biases
22:00 – Managing sensitive DE&I conversations in the workplace
26:00 – Priya Shah on handling microaggressions and exclusionary language
30:00 – Importance of allyship and addressing fear of "getting it wrong"
36:00 – Exploring the backlash against DE&I initiatives and rethinking approaches
40:00 – Final thoughts: creating a culture of learning, empathy, and active support for diversity
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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 Estate
00:45 Mark Woodrow's Early Career and the 2008 Recession
03:07 Grainger's Recovery and the Rise of Build to Rent
06:42 The Formation of Packaged Living
08:42 Ambitions and Future of Packaged Living
10:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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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-62a19415
linkedin.com/in/faith-locken-710b2263
linkedin.com/in/gafar-fashola-6b6636112
linkedin.com/in/vanessa-murray-9b032763
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:53 Meet the Panelists
01:46 Gafar's Journey into Real Estate
03:05 Vanessa's Unique Path
05:16 Faith's Story and We Rise In
06:23 Challenges in Real Estate Diversity
12:06 Strategies for Inclusion
20:34 Navigating Career Challenges and Seeking Mentorship
22:00 The Importance of Sponsorship in Career Advancement
23:36 Diversity and Inclusion: From Grad Level to Senior Management
25:02 Real Estate Education and Industry Representation
27:08 The Role of Senior Managers in Promoting Diversity
27:53 Rethinking Qualifications and Career Paths in Real Estate
30:26 Personal Experiences and Microaggressions in the Workplace
33:51 Mentorship Differences and Confidence Building
37:32 The Importance of Allyship and Active Support
40:30 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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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/
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00:00 Introduction to the Episode
00:40 Amelia Bright's Early Career and University Days
01:57 Transition to Real Estate and Career Growth
03:07 Challenges and Lessons in Development
04:57 Leadership and Management Insights
07:09 Secrets to Career Success
07:56 Reflections and Future Plans
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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 Welcome
00:44 Emily's Early Passion for Nature
02:51 First Steps in Sustainability
04:35 Building a Career in Environmental Consultancy
05:41 University of East London Experience
07:36 Joining Grosvenor and Early Challenges
12:39 Transformational Leadership at Grosvenor
23:17 Transition to Savills Investment Management
32:34 Current Role and Future Aspirations
34:56 Conclusion and Reflections
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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 Episode
00:38 Meet Matt Townend: Career Highlights
01:04 Early Career Struggles and Lessons Learned
02:25 The Importance of Balance and Mindfulness
03:52 Insights from Colleagues and Mentors
05:50 Battersea Power Station: A Landmark Project
10:20 Evolving Leadership Skills
13:39 Personal Reflections and Legacy
15:59 Conclusion and Closing Remarks
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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 Achievement
01:10 Early Career Beginnings
03:00 Rising Through the Ranks
03:54 Key Lessons and Turning Points
05:44 Leadership and Team Dynamics
09:01 Navigating Challenges and Growth
10:44 Becoming CEO and Facing Bankruptcy
19:42 Decisions and Loyalty
24:49 Harnessing Fearlessness for Team Success
25:03 Navigating Tough Times as a CEO
25:46 The UGL Acquisition and Strategic Growth
25:54 The Role of Management in Successful Acquisitions
27:17 UGL's Strategic Shift and Financial Challenges
28:31 The Sale to Private Equity and Global Expansion
32:04 Lessons from Past Acquisitions
35:42 Leadership and Personal Growth
41:57 Reflecting on Career Achievements and Challenges
44:52 Future Endeavors and Personal Goals
47:41 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks
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Jan Trbizan: From Ljubljana to London's Super Prime Real Estate
In 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 Podcast
00:19 Jan Trbizan's Early Career in Slovenia
01:19 Challenges in the Slovenian Professional Scene
02:04 Breaking into the London Architecture Scene
02:22 The Struggle to Find a Job in 2009
03:03 A Creative Approach to Job Hunting
04:39 Landing the Job at Squire and Partners
06:36 Transition to Northacre and Client-Side Insights
07:18 The Broader Perspective of Architecture
08:51 Conclusion and Podcast Outro
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Building Affordable Housing: Colm Lacey's Journey in Real Estate
In 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 episode
00:00 Introduction to the Guest: Colm Lacey
01:00 Colm's Early Life and University Days
02:02 First Steps in the Professional World
03:14 Transition to Regeneration Projects
04:32 Master's Degree and Career Realization
07:57 Challenges and Successes in Brixton
12:48 Strategic Role at Homes and Communities Agency
18:11 Return to Newham and Olympic Legacy
24:55 Transforming Croydon with Brick by Brick
30:41 Career Challenges and Successes
31:37 Brick by Brick: Context and Controversy
33:41 Ambitions and Achievements
36:25 Public Criticism and Reflection
38:35 Political and Economic Challenges
48:36 Transition to Soft Cities
48:58 Quickfire Questions and Insights
56:59 Future Plans and Final Thoughts
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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.
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00:00 Introduction to the Episode
00:40 Caroline Harper's Early Career and Unique Traits
02:30 Role and Responsibilities at Be First
03:38 Transition from Private to Public Sector
05:39 Current Drivers and Personal Growth
08:19 Making leaps in your learning
09:07 Closing Remarks
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The Power of Saying Yes: Honor Barratt, CEO Birchgrove on Career Transformation and Innovation in Real Estate
In 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 episode
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:38 Honor Barratt's Early Career
01:09 The Timeshare Experience
03:40 Post-Graduation Adventures
04:03 The Power of Saying Yes
06:14 Challenges in the First Agency
08:41 Building a Global Creative Agency
10:51 Private Equity and Compromise
14:10 The Law of the Jungle in Business
16:59 Seeking New Challenges
19:42 The Drive to Evolve and Innovate
20:55 The Value of Executive Education
22:55 Embracing Private Equity
24:39 The Power of Saying Yes
28:41 Recognizing and Overcoming Blind Spots
30:37 The Birchgrove Vision
34:22 Balancing Career and Parenthood
36:33 The Future of Housing for the Elderly
37:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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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"
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00:00 Introduction to Accelerating Careers in Real Estate
00:13 Revisiting Will Bax's Career Journey
00:45 The Importance of Career Planning
01:06 Early Career Reflections and Politics
03:03 Developing Flexibility and Resilience
06:09 Personal Tragedy and Career Impact
09:42 Leadership Challenges and Growth
12:03 Transition to Chief Executive
13:24 Conclusion
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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.
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Leave a review on the platform of choice if you've enjoyed this episode
00:00 Introduction to Accelerating Careers in Real Estate
00:14 Early Influences and Family Background
01:18 University Life and Early Career Choices
03:21 First Professional Steps at Red Row Homes
06:25 Transition to Barclay Group
13:36 Joining Lendlease and Initial Challenges
22:40 Building a Driven Team
23:23 Master Planning and Early Phases
24:10 Adapting to a New Environment
26:29 Leadership and Vision
27:38 Transitioning Roles
29:08 Team Dynamics and Vision
32:05 Reflecting on Career Moves
33:46 Taking on New Challenges
37:20 Joining Ells Court
42:29 Lessons from Industry Leaders
45:08 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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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 episode
You can listen to the full episode at:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rcWkcJKseOaxRPD6IiG1J?si=k3a8Rl2TS5GXU5OMUUCTRA
https://podcasts.apple.com/ug/podcast/episode-9-gary-mcluskey/id1506496352?i=1000490011243
Key Highlights:
Conclusion:
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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]
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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 Pellatt
Key Chapters
Introduction
The Early Days and First Project Management Experience
The Northcliffe House Project and Lessons in Resilience
Career Progression and the Desire for Influence
Overcoming Stress and Personal Challenges
The Analogy of Stress and Persistence
Trusting the Team and Embracing Innovation
The Decision to Leave Comfort for Growth
The Impact of Innovation and Smart Buildings
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