Areaworks appoints former senior MetLife Bank executive as new CFO

Markus Malik

Areaworks, a flexible office provider, that delivers modern, flexible and professional office spaces for businesses and individuals, has further strengthened its top team by bringing on Markus Malik, an experienced finance executive and lawyer, as Acting Chief Financial Officer.

Markus worked for more than two decades at some of the world’s largest finance and professional service companies, including as a Vice President of MetLife Insurance Company and CFO and Treasurer of MetLife Bank. He has also held senior roles at Capita Plc, Capgemini UK, and Pearson.

Markus is currently Head of Corporate Growth and a lawyer at leading London law firm Stirling Ackroyd Legal LLP/ David Ebert LLP.

Markus holds an MBA from London Business School, a Juris Doctor from Fordham Law School, and an LL.M. in tax law from Georgetown University. He has also taught at the UK’s University of Law.

Markus will support Areaworks’, a company that delivers modern, flexible and professional office spaces for businesses and individuals, whilst incorporating a ‘lifestyle-first’ office strategy service that caters for the needs of the individual outside of work. Its buildings include relaxing spaces, fitness facilities and event spaces. The company is currently expanding globally to capitalise on the need for flexible work environments.

Markus said: “I am delighted to be joining Areaworks at such an important time in their growth. Across the world, working from home has broken the habit of commuting to congested, urban centres. People are calling out for a solution to go to work without unnecessary journeys and our workspace buildings offer that solution. Areaworks delivers an attractive proposition to both investors and clients, and with the world of work and property evolving fast, it is sure to be a fulfilling role.”

Panny Lawrence, Founder of Areaworks said: “It is great to welcome someone of Markus’ calibre to the business – his skill set is truly complementary to the rest of our team and his experience in large transactions will be a vital part of our strategy to grow our portfolio. He joins us at a time when he can really help us make a difference to the logistics of work and the constantly developing ‘new normal’.

“We have seen an increase in enquiries for our spaces as the country starts to get back to work. Our offices are designed with the greatest consideration to COVID-19 and we look forward to facilitating this shift. Where people are cautious of getting on public transport to travel to large city-centre offices but want to escape the kitchen table, our offices offer a mix of the two. Far enough from home, close enough for a safe journey, familiar enough to feel comfortable and professional enough to unleash your potential through higher productivity.”

Areaworks’ model is designed to meet the growing need for flexible working, something that will be vital as the economy looks to rebuild in a post-COVID world. Areaworks’ offices cater to businesses looking to get back to the office but in need of cost-effective, safe workspaces.