East Midlands commercial property expert Andrew + Ashwell has made a sound start to 2022 with new recruitment and a major promotion.
The Leicester-based firm has recently added new faces Jef Bale and Harry Brown to the specialist team at the London Road A+A office, with a well-earned promotion to associate director for established chartered surveyor Kelvin Wilson.
Jef has joined A+A as senior property manager – a role that will be a perfect fit – as he had been property manager for Savills and based at The Whittle Estate in Whetstone for almost 30 years.
Having started in the mailroom on site he worked his way up to administration manager and became industrial estate manager around 2005, where his role has expanded substantially, along with the site itself.
“I’ve known Malcolm and several others at A+A for a good few years and this was a huge factor in my decision to move on after so long,” said Jef.
“Part of my role has been to look after maintenance and compliance issues on site, working closely with tenants to ensure the estate operates smoothly and that we protect the interests of our clients.
“I loved my time working on site, as is evident by the length of service, so this is a huge step for me, but one I could not take the chance of missing out on and I’m really looking forward to the challenge.”
A+A is also welcoming 22-year-old Harry Brown as a new junior surveyor. Previously a trainee surveyor with TDB Real Estates in Northampton, Harry is known for his strong organizational skills. His main focus will be to assist with property management as he continues to train.
“I’ve spent two and a half years at TDB Real Estate learning on the job, providing support in both agency and administrative work. My primary role will be to assist A+A directors and the senior property management team with a substantial portfolio of mixed commercial property. This involves inspections, reporting, tenant liaison, rent reviews/lease renewals and new lettings.
“The new post will provide an excellent stepping stone in my career and I’m really looking forward to working with the whole A+A team.”
Kelvin Wilson, newly promoted to associate director at A+A, started as a youngster in September 2014 and has made a natural progression within A+A, achieving Professional Competence (APC) on his first attempt in 2018, when he qualified as a Chartered Surveyor.
Now focusing on agency work for existing and prospective clients, Kelvin also deals with management and professional aspects of the business.
“I have worked alongside and taken guidance from a team that has over 150 years of experience in this office and I am very grateful for the professional opportunities provided along the way. I am proud of my new title and look forward to the challenges ahead, while continuing to service existing and new clients.”
Malcolm Grayson, A+A director, said the commercial property market had remained positive, despite a fluctuating economy chiefly brought about by Covid, allowing the company breathing space for expansion.
“Difficulties remain in the retail sector, which has longer restructuring pain to come in the face of online competition. But office demand has held up well, with rents and prices largely remaining stable, although working patterns have seen staff operating from home to a mixed degree.
“Industrial/warehouse has shown strong demand and under supply. Where land is available, new industrial development is coming forward in response to heightened rents and capital values.
“With good prospects ahead we are delighted to take on board new people, at the same time encouraging personal development among our established team, which can only be good for the future of A+A.”
