From swashbuckling entrepreneurs to steady hands on the corporate tiller, property’s chief executives come in all shapes and sizes. But whatever their character – and whatever the nature of the ships they captain – the best always stand out: building reputations, delivering returns for investors and creating inspiring buildings and places.
For the first time we are looking to identify the best of this diverse bunch. The Props, the annual industry awards charity lunch, together with Estates Gazette, has recruited a panel of expert judges to make the inaugural CEO of the Year award.
After a comprehensive nominations process – and rigorous judging session hosted by King & Wood Mallesons – we have a final shortlist of some of real estate’s most inspiring leaders. The judges have had their say, but we want EG readers to help ensure this prestigious award goes to the most deserving recipient.
To vote, read the citations below, pick your winner and send a text with that candidate’s code to the number below. Each text will cost you £3, with the money going straight to Variety to help buy powered wheelchairs for sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people throughout the UK.
The PROPS Lunch 2015 takes place on 12 May at the London Hilton, Park Lane, W1. To book a table go to www.variety.org.uk/events/the-props-lunch-2015
PROPS CEO OF THE YEAR SHORTLIST
John Burns
The developer’s developer, according to some. A forward-looking chief executive with a clear strategy, according to our judges. The Derwent boss continues to read the market better than most and deliver outstanding returns. Is he your chief executive of the year?
To vote for John Burns text the code PRJB123 to 70070
Toby Courtauld
The Great Portland Estates boss has delivered exceptional returns in bad times and good. A chief executive with a clear strategy – and a resilient business model – he has helped develop other industry leaders while growing his core business.
To vote for Toby Courtauld text PRTC123 to 70070
Nigel Hugill
A reverse takeover of Terrace Hill, a capital raise of £170m and a thirst for city-changing projects that grip local imagination, Urban & Civic’s Nigel Hugill is back. The man renowned for urban regeneration projects in White City, Stratford and the Greenwich Peninsula is now focusing on Rugby, Alconbury Weald and beyond.
To vote for Nigel Hugill text PRNH123 to 70070
Rob Noel
The Land Securities chief executive has made big decisions since he stepped up to the top job in 2012 around investment, in changing the culture of the organisation and in winning the confidence of investors. It is never easy taming a big beast, said our judges, but Noel has done so with aplomb.
To vote for Rob Noel text PRRN123 to 70070
Jamie Ritblat
A sure-footed chief executive who buys good assets. A great entrepreneur who has done a fantastic job. These were just some of the phrases used by our judges to describe the Delancey boss. From PRS at East Village in Stratford to the Walbrook building in the City, Ritblat has been at the heart of many of the capital’s most headline-worthy developments.
To vote for Jamie Ritblat text PRJR123 to 70070
Graham Roberts
Roberts, perhaps the least well known on the panel, greatly impressed our judges. He has brought stability to Assura, shown vision in aligning the company with the government’s NHS agenda and delivered, with 24% shareholder returns last year.
To vote for Roberts text PRGR123 to 70070
The judges
Nick Shattock, NS Real Estate (co-chair)
Damian Wild, editor, Estates Gazette (co-chair)
Robert Fowlds, vice-chairman, real estate investment banking, JP Morgan Cazenove
Sir John Ritblat, former British Land chief executive and chairman
David Church, vice-chairman real estate investment banking, Bank of America Merrill Lynch
John Richards, former Hammerson chief executive
Heraclis Economides, managing director, corporate finance, Numis Securities
Ian Marcus, chairman, Bank of England Commercial Property Forum
Adrian Wyatt, co-founder, Quintain
Ian Henderson, former Land Securities chief executive
Francis Salway, former Land Securities chief executive
Roger Clarke, managing director, Stifel
Andy Rothery, head of Deloitte Real Estate
