IM Properties has headhunted well known adviser David Smith to deliver planning on its 12m sq ft industrial landbank.
Smith joins the Midlands-based private property company as planning director in January 2017.
He was a director at Turley since June 2006, based in the firm’s Birmingham office but with a national remit. He is a well-known planning adviser and has worked with IMP over the years on various projects. Prior to joining Turley, Smith worked at JLL and Drivers Jonas.
IMP’s UK development director, Kevin Ashfield, said Smith’s appointment will enable the privately owned property company to spearhead IMP’s growing landbank.
“David’s name was the one that really stood out to us as he has worked with IMP for a number of years on various projects. He has a clear vision of the future delivery of industrial sites – he understands the sophistication of the logistics market, its challenges and is widely respected. We are very pleased to have persuaded him to make the move.”
Ashfield said that IMP had brought more than 6m sq ft of space through the planning process to date and said the firm is now looking to take the business to the “next level”.
“We have secured land which could deliver 12m sq ft of logistics and manufacturing space in the short-to-medium term and the appointment of David is key to achieving this ambition,” he said.
During his time at Turley, Smith had a national remit to help logistics clients bring forward key strategic sites and assist occupiers in meeting operational requirements.
Commenting on the new role, Smith said: “E-commerce is still very much driving the sector, and land supply remains a critical issue. With IMP’s track record and growing team, I am confident we can deliver planning.”
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