Almacantar

When Almacantar launched in 2010, it represented not only a new property business, but a new kind of property business.

Since launching in 2010, Almacantar has set out to attract the brightest development talent in the industry. Kathrin Hersel was one of the first and most important recruits, bringing a wealth of experience in the London market. As Development Director, she plays a crucial role in the evolution of the business.

I recently contributed to a Financial Times feature on the changing role of the skyscraper in the world’s great cities.

Almacantar has recently announced an innovative collaboration with world-renowned fashion and design company Eley Kishimoto. As well as being an exciting element in our reinvention of Centre Point in the heart of London, it’s a partnership that says a lot about our wider approach to development.

Looking at the key planning challenges in London for 2013 and beyond, one theme is clear. Sustainable economic growth has to be the priority. The planning system must deliver investment and jobs to ensure London continues its role as the Global City.

I was recently asked to pen a quarterly column for Property Week magazine to share my thoughts on the commercial property market and London development. This article, which argues that riding the property cycle is no longer an option in today's increasingly complex economic climate, was published in the MIPIM edition on 15 March.