One of the UK’s oldest family-owned city estates has strengthened its property team with the appointment of two new individuals.
As part of plans to grow its multimillion-pound investment and development portfolio in Edgbaston, Calthorpe Estates has appointed Richard Suart as Property Director and Tom Foley as Asset Manager.
With 24 years of experience, 13 of which were spent as Regional Property Director for Northern Trust Property Company, Richard brings a wealth of knowledge to his new position and will lead the company’s asset management team. He will focus on customer service and financial growth, working with the Calthorpe Estates team, communities and stakeholders to create exceptional places where people chose to live, work and visit.
Richard said: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed as Property Director for Calthorpe Estates and am looking forward to the challenge of building a new team within the business. I want us to be place-proud and deliver evolving space to meet our current and future customer needs, which ultimately will help to deliver excellence and distinction for the long-term, advance the area’s growth and enhance our offering.
“Throughout my years in the property industry, I’ve managed a wide range of assets including residential, retail, industrial and commercial premises, which I hope will stand me in good stead with the impressive multi-use environment Calthorpe Estates has to offer. The Estate, alongside Edgbaston Village, is fast-becoming a must-visit location in Birmingham, and I am excited to be part of the team driving forward its evolution and development.”
Tom Foley will lead on the asset management of the Estate’s properties. He previously worked for NFU Mutual’s Insurance Fund, where he was responsible for overseeing nationwide projects, including a £7million office refurbishment in Glasgow, and a £2million transformation in Manchester.
Tom commented: “As a Birmingham local, I’m already familiar with Edgbaston Village and the Calthorpe Estate and am delighted to be part of its ambitious growth plans for the future.
“The area is fast-becoming a thriving location for independent businesses, whether that be retailers, restaurants or companies looking for office space, and its clear to see why. As the main point of contact for new customers, I look forward to supporting the re-design of our spaces to encourage even more businesses to set up home on the Estate, and ensure we are able to meet their requirements.
Commenting on the appointments, Haydn Cooper, Chief Executive for Calthorpe Estates, added: “Despite the challenges of the pandemic, we have seen Edgbaston continue to flourish with the backdrop of renewed public realm in Greenfield Crescent.
“All in all, it is an exciting time for the business, as we see the likes of Chapter Restaurant, Lux Gallery and KIN Homes join the Village, the continuation of the popular Artisan Markets and the Edgbaston Village Metro stop set to open shortly. I look forward to working with Richard and Tom as we continue to engage with our communities and create exceptional places to be enjoyed by people who live, work and visit Edgbaston.”
Edgbaston Village, on the Calthorpe Estate, is already home to a variety of award-winning independent restaurants, cafes, bars and shops, including the Michelin-starred Simpsons, The High Field and Loki Wine. There is the potential for even more alfresco dining and shopping options in the area, all of which will be made increasingly accessible following the opening of the new Edgbaston Village Metro stop in 2022.
