We are pleased to announce today the appointment of Paul Richards to Managing Director.
Paul, already a member of the AREF Board, has over 30 years of real estate experience in investment, corporate finance and research, and has advised investors, occupiers and venture capital companies on property portfolio strategy and on financial structuring, including PFI, senior and mezzanine debt and joint venture arrangements. Paul most recently held the role of Head of the European Real Estate Boutique within Mercer’s investment consulting business. He replaces John Cartwright, who has led AREF for the past ten years and oversaw the partnership with the Investment Association (IA) in March this year.
Deborah Lloyd, Chairman of AREF, said: "I am extremely pleased to welcome Paul Richards as Managing Director. This is an exciting time for our organisation and Paul has the skills to push forward AREF’s new agenda around innovation and social impact. There are many opportunities and challenges facing the industry and AREF will be at the forefront leading initiatives to support our members. I would also like to thank John Cartwright and for sharing his impressive experience and insight over the years.”
Chris Cummings, Chief Executive of the Investment Association, said: “AREF is an important part of the IA. Paul brings a wealth of experience from his 30 years working within real estate investment, which will not only benefit AREF and its members, but the wider IA organisation as well. I look forward to working with him in his new role.”
Paul Richards, Managing Director of AREF, said: “I’m honoured to be appointed as Managing Director of AREF. I look forward to championing this important part of the funds industry and supporting our members in particular, as we look to widen our membership and grow our FinTech engagement.”
