Name: Byron Baciocchi
Job title: Founder and CEO, Unica Capital
What I do: I am in the process of identifying, acquiring and crafting an exceptional property portfolio of trophy assets that deliver long-term income. Our focus is on residential (to rent) and commercial properties in prime central London, typically where we can add value through our design, planning and construction expertise. My main goal is to build a successful legacy for generations to come.
Why I got into the property industry: I studied international economics, but I was not interested in going into banking. I was more fascinated by the intersection where finance meets the more ‘hands on’ side of property development.
How I did it: My first role was in the construction and project management industry in Switzerland, before I founded B2 Real Estate, which would become Byron Baciocchi Immobilier SA, a firm focused on real estate brokerage.
My first big break: Building and growing B2 Real Estate into Byron Baciocchi Immobilier SA, which is when things really started to take off. I’m still the chairman today.
My inspiration(s): I have always been inspired by successful families who build their empires from scratch, putting in hard work and, of course, taking on risks.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: As I started very young, I really had to prove my commitment and determination early on to earn the respect of those who had been in the industry for a long time.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: When my other business venture Ultima Capital – operator of the Ultima Collection – listed on the Swiss stock exchange in 2019. This was a pivotal and incredibly proud moment for me and my business partner Max-Hervé George.
My biggest screw-up: That’s a good question, but the way I see it there have only been lessons rather than screw-ups. And I will keep those lessons close to my heart.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: Is that it is easy and can be a side hobby. At our level, an enormous amount of research and work has to be put in to making the best investments possible.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: There are lots of outdated processes during the acquisition and planning stages of development that can cause long delays and therefore costs.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Continuing to grow Unica Capital and its portfolio in London, Monaco, and Switzerland.
My main career goals right now: London is now experiencing a buyers’ market, and this coming year will yield excellent opportunities for investors with high levels of liquidity like Unica Capital. We are looking to invest circa £190m next year, so my goal now is ensuring we find the right assets to work with.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Pavarotti, Steve Jobs and Warren Buffett.
What I do in my downtime: My young son keeps me busy most of the time but when I’m not spending time with him, I like to make time for close friends and looking after my horses which I breed.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Here’s the thing – from the beginning, I have solely been interested in property development and design. I really can’t imagine myself doing anything else.
My advice for someone just starting out: Be humble, be curious and don’t be afraid of taking risks.
My motto/mantra: You can achieve anything you put your mind to.
