Desert Island Risks Emily Bohill

In a change from our usual podcast format – today, Emily revisits her conversation with Richard Croft, Executive Chairman and founder of M7 Real Estate, three years’ on from their original conversation over zoom, during the Covid pandemic. This time, we hear from Richard about M7’s recent deal with Oxford Properties, discuss his departure from the business’ executive leadership team and dig deeper into his thoughts on leadership, futureproofing a business and putting your best foot first when approaching investment opportunities. We also hear from Richard’s backers and friends on the unique impact he has had on the industry, as well as revisiting a few old gems from the Desert Island Risk vaults – of course we couldn’t miss the opportunity to return to the infamous story of “The Marble” …!
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In our tenth episode, Emily meets Joanne McNamara, Head of Europe at Oxford Properties. Having joined Oxford in 2010 as an Investment Analyst (and as one of the first of three employees in the team) Jo rose through the ranks as Oxford grew its AUM to $10bn and its headcount to 40 people. She played a central role in Oxford’s merger with M7 Real Estate in 2021 and was awarded PERE industry figure of the year in the deals aftermath. In this episode, we learn Joanne’s thoughts on what it takes to step up as a leader in business, how to approach risks and challenges with thoughtfulness and respect, and why more offices should take up team sports (or just Netball, according to Jo!). We also hear from Joanne’s business partners, mentors, family and longstanding friends on why she stands out from the rest, Jo’s ability to back herself through challenging times and how she has found balance between business leadership and family.
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In our ninth podcast episode, Emily talks to James Thornton, former CEO and current Non-Executive Chairman of Mayfair Capital. After 20 years working on the advisory side with Jones Lang Wooton and Savills, James took the leap in setting up Mayfair Capital with his former JLW colleague, Guy Brogden, in 2002. Since then, he has helped the business to invest hundreds of millions of pounds of capital, culminating in the sale of Mayfair to Swiss Life in 2016. In this episode, we hear from James on the challenges of setting up your own business, how to deal with unexpected market changes, albeit a war, global pandemic, financial crisis or Brexit, the secret to building trust with your investors and why the people behind the real estate still matter so much. We also hear from James’ family, friends and former colleagues on why he has stood out in the market, his unflappable attitude in a crisis and his secret penchant for soppy films!
 

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In our eighth podcast episode, Emily meets Mark Robinson, co-founder of Ellandi, the UK’s leading owner-operator of retail and town centre spaces. He is an award-winning entrepreneur and one of the market’s leading advocates for placemaking and community creation. Mark’s success has been recognised through a number of accolades including being chosen as President of Revo and his Government appointment as Chair of the High Street Task Force in 2020. Having begun his career in retail 28 years ago, Mark took the leap in founding his own platform in 2008. He recounts how he set up his business in the wake of the financial crisis, the initial struggles and how they built a successful company with diversity, inclusion, community and sustainability at its forefront. On a more personal level Mark, tells us about his recent life changing experience, and how it has transformed (for the better) his approach to life, the business and taking risks. We will also hear from friends and colleagues of Mark who share their stories including his co-founder of Ellandi Morgan Garfield, COO Alysoun Stewart and Matthew Weiner. 



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Our seventh episode sees Emily meet Jos Short, Co-Founder of Internos (now part of Principal Global Investors) and an active board member of firms including Big Yellow, Great Portland Estates and Annington. Having set up his business in the wake of the GFC, Jos shares his insights on taking responsibility as an executive, adapting your business to the times and finding the best way to futureproof your company against a changing and challenging market – something that has only become more prevalent as we exit the Covid pandemic. We also hear from Jos’s friends and colleagues who share their favourite stories of the man, whether taking risks in the board room or driving round East Berlin in a vintage Trabant!
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In our sixth episode, Emily meets Helen Gordon, CEO of Grainger, the largest, listed residential landlord in the UK. No stranger to adversity, Helen has navigated some of the toughest crises to hit the real estate industry to date, including running RBS’ Global Asset Management team in the wake of the global financial crisis and managing the sale of Railtrack’s real estate assets following the collapse and government takeover of the British Railway system in 2001. Helen shares her views on the best way to tackle trying situations, how to maximise and cultivate skills within a team and, infamous for her excellent sense of humour, how to stay positive in a crisis. A strong advocate for equal opportunities and diversity, Helen also gives her insight on how to encourage a more inclusive industry where those from all backgrounds are given the training and confidence to grow. We additionally hear from family, friends and colleagues of Helen who have watched her challenge the status-quo and rise to the many challenges throughout her career. 


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