What do you do?

I’ve worked in commercial property and development law for over 25 years with business owners, occupiers, investors, developers, retailers and property specialists form a wide range of disciplines. 

I see my role as ‘adding value’ for my clients, minimising transaction risk, providing thorough practical advice in context and, importantly, ensuring that the ‘deal gets done’ (on time and on budget). Injecting a good sense of humour wherever possible along the way too.  

Why do you do it?

I’m proud of a client testimonial quote used by Legal 500: 

“Stands out for his outstanding expertise combined with a fine legal brain and an uncompromising level of business and commercial acumen.”

Lawyers are typically risk averse (by nature and training). Whilst I’m a very logical and detailed person, I’m also highly creative and have an entrepreneurial spirt and approach (to life and my work). I relish the challenge of each new project as it presents opportunity to play to both of these strengths, structuring the deal and drafting the documentation in a way that meets the client’s key objectives and drivers. 

What kind of projects have you been involved in?

I’ve granted and taken leases for all kinds of businesses, including the bespoke build of new commercial units (one for storage of private client wine reserves was a highlight).  

I’ve acted on acquisitions and disposals of a varied portfolio of properties.  

I’ve supported and advised developers embarking on their first small-scale backland schemes, through to representing landowners entering into complex developments agreements with leading national housebuilders (including one for the provision of 800 new homes with related infrastructure).  

I have a passion for being involved end-to-end on transactions, supporting my clients on every aspect of the journey. From site acquisition, through funding, setting up the required plot-sales or leases documentation and running the disposals. It is really rewarding being a key member of my client’s team, enjoying together a well-earned celebration when the final sales have completed and the development profit has been fully achieved. 

I also thrive when wearing the other hat, acting for a landowner and making sure that the agreement obliges the developer to set and implement a strategy which enables my client to exploit and realise the maximised value of their land asset.   

What’s on top of your bucket list?

Writing a Musical. I’ve a great ear for all kinds of music and enjoy songwriting. I can’t sing or dance for toffee, but I’ve seen enough West End shows with my wife and daughters (one being in performing arts training and World Tap Dance Champion with Team GB) that I think I know the winning formula.