Client Overview 

A European investor-developer with a prime residential and commercial portfolio was preparing to expand into the UK market. With an established track record across continental Europe, the business sought to replicate its success by building a London-based acquisitions and development team from the ground up. 

The Challenge 

Entering a new market presented significant hurdles. The business had limited knowledge of UK salary expectations, benefits structures, and the competitive landscape for senior real estate talent. They required three senior hires across their acquisitions and development teams within a 12-month period, all whilst competing against established UK players for top-tier candidates. 

Our Approach 

Leadership 

Chris Litras and Jake McMonagle led this assignment, bringing extensive experience in placing senior professionals within real estate investment and development businesses. Their deep network across the prime residential and commercial sectors proved instrumental in identifying candidates with the precise blend of technical expertise and entrepreneurial mindset the business required. 

Overview of Methodology 

Talent Advisory  

Comprehensive guidance was provided on structuring the UK operation, including team composition and reporting lines suited to the business's growth ambitions. 

Salary and Benefits Benchmarking  

Detailed market analysis ensured the compensation packages were competitive within the prime London market, enabling the business to attract high-calibre candidates despite being a new entrant. 

Candidate Pack  

Bespoke candidate materials were created to articulate the opportunity compellingly, addressing potential concerns about joining a business without an established UK presence and highlighting the unique career proposition. 

Results 

Key Success Factors 

This partnership succeeded through a consultative approach that went beyond traditional recruitment. By providing strategic guidance on market positioning and compensation, combined with carefully crafted candidate messaging, a new market entrant was able to compete effectively for senior talent and build a high-performing UK team from scratch.