BNP Paribas Real Estate appoints Birmingham head

BNP Paribas Real Estate has appointed Simon Robinson as head of Birmingham from GBR Phoenix Beard.

Simon, who is a leading property figure in the Midlands property market, has more than 30 years of experience in the investment and occupational markets in the UK, US and Asia. After a successful career at Richard Ellis, including three years as head of the Birmingham office, Simon co-founded GBR Property Consultants in 2003, a niche office leasing and investment agency business which then  merged with property management company Phoenix Beard in 2010. He has also served as Investment Property Forum Midlands chairman.

With a strong track record in the Midlands market, Simon has transacted a number of high-profile buildings in Birmingham for national and international clients, including One Eleven Edmund Street for Hines, Ediston Europa’s purchase of St Philips Point and 54 Hagley Road, Edgbaston for Westbrook Partners, as well as the recent sale of The Exchange, Newhall Street to a Singaporean investor.

BNP Paribas Real Estate’s UK CEO, John Slade, comments: “We are pleased to announce Simon’s appointment to the business, as he will bring with him a wealth of experience and Midlands market expertise. He will be responsible for the delivery of our ambitious growth plans in the region and Birmingham, which is one of the company’s key regional offices.”

In the last 18 months, BNP Paribas Real Estate has brought in more than 50 senior people, helping the company to accelerate as a major player in the UK, in keeping with its European leadership position.