Name: James Hall
Job title: Acquisitions and development manager, Whitbread
What I do: As an acquisitions and development manager, I’m responsible for acquiring new sites for the Premier Inn and hub by Premier Inn brands across Greater London and the South East more widely. I do this in part by building relationships with councils, landowners, developers and investment agencies who have sites that might suit a hotel use – and I’ve been calling recently for anyone with an opportunity that fits this to get in touch. Once a site is acquired, I’ll then see it through the planning process before handing it over to our project team for delivery.
Why I got into the property industry: I’ve always had an interest in the built environment, particularly when it comes to how people interact with different spaces and places – but leaving school I didn’t even know jobs in the sector were an option. University opened my eyes to the options available and in the end, I was able to follow my interests and gain some work experience in surveying where I soon realised, I was a natural fit.
How I did it: I took the well-trodden path of a geography undergraduate degree – and decided a RICS-accredited master’s degree would be a great next step in pursuing a job in the industry
My first proper job: I worked at a very small commercial agency in South London, where we rented and sold shops and uppers. Looking back, it was a million miles away from the commercial real estate world I now know, but it taught me a lot about the industry as a whole and I met some interesting people during my time there.
My first big break: Getting a seat in the West End investment team through GVA’s graduate scheme felt like my first big break. It gave me the opportunity to work with some great colleagues that I learnt a lot from.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: Since joining the industry, the macro environment has undergone some significant changes. From Brexit to Covid to global conflicts, everyone working in property has had a lot to navigate over the last few years. Building a career while the sector was navigating these big events taught me a lot about how resilient and flexible the property industry actually is.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: There are a few that come to mind – first is that it’s old fashioned and ‘analogue’. The sector is full of brilliant and savvy people who have embraced opportunities in the very cutting-edge, including in tech and data analysis. With this comes creativity. The property industry is made up of people who are always looking for new ideas and solutions – whether that’s seeking out new ways to make the industry more accessible and dynamic, to how we work day-to-day. It means there’s no set formula to how we work, which can be another common misconception.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: I think the industry could do more to support those who are just starting out – for example, you often see a significant pay gap for those at the start of their careers. This makes the industry less accessible for young people – especially those working in London – so we could risk losing out on important future talent if we’re not careful.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: As a parent, I’m passionate about leaving a positive legacy for my children and future generations. Sustainability and ESG play a significant role in this and sit at the heart of Whitbread’s ‘Force for Good’ strategy. It’s this strategy that underpins our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of our properties and creating real social value in the development process.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: This was a tough question, but I think I’ll have to go with Mick Jagger, James Gandolfini and Zidane – an eclectic mix that would provide some memorable moments across the evening.
What I do in my downtime: Downtime? I don’t get much of that with a young family! But when I do it’s normally spent on a golf course with mates or watching Charlton Athletic at The Valley.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Although totally different worlds, how about a green keeper at Augusta National or a DJ at a beach club.
My advice for someone just starting out: My main advice would be to network with as many people as possible and build relationships from the beginning. Asking questions is also an important skill for anyone starting out in their career. Beyond that, keeping up with our evolving world by embracing the new opportunities offered by AI and making sure to learn how to run cashflows!
My inspiration(s): I wouldn’t say I have one single inspiration. I take different things from people I’ve worked with, as well as from friends and certain family members. I’ve been lucky to be around people who lead by example, and those influences have shaped how I approach my own career.
My motto/mantra: Focus on what you can control, work hard and stay adaptable – the rest will follow.
