Name: Marcus Adam
Title: Development director, Octopus Real Estate
What I do: I work within the retirement team – we manage the investment funds into integrated retirement communities (IRCs) projects. My role is the in-house development/construction expert to underwrite the investments and provide oversight during the construction phases.
Why I got into the property industry: I’ve always had a passion for buildings and how a design and place can make you feel. It is remarkable to see such a diverse array of possible outcomes from taking the same simple ingredients and providing places to work and live. No matter who or where you are, we all essentially need the same basic requirements.
When I became interested in ESG: It’s such an important area that I’ve always been interested in. Not only does working for a B Corp company open your eyes to how businesses should be, but it challenges me to push developers, operators and contractors to provide more environmental and social benefits above and beyond the normal lip service. To date, we’ve successfully introduced additional apprenticeships places, raised the awareness of mental health on sites, and are now looking to roll out financial coaching to onsite staff and subcontractors. All very exciting.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: I’m fortunate to have a few, but one in my career that I truly learnt a lot through was the delivery of the Garden Halls for the University of London. It’s the largest purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in central London, providing a 1,200 bed flagship, market-leading and award-winning PBSA development. The halls offer students from the University of London and its colleges a state-of-the-art affordable alternative.
Some of the techniques I introduced into the construction delivery on this project formed a substantive change in the delivery of PBSA in the wider market. Other achievements that I am proud of include obtaining my Fellowship with the CIOB, which recognises the level of ability, knowledge and application I have obtained.
My main career goals right now: Continue to support the investment into and delivery of IRCs. At Octopus Real Estate we work with leading operators to deliver retirement communities that can meet the aspirations of the UK’s ageing population. Through age-adjusted design, purpose-built buildings and quality facilities, they’re places where people can truly enjoy retirement. It is an extremely important area that requires more funding, more developers and more understanding in the wider housing market; it’s the new BTR.
My advice for someone just starting out: Obtain as much broad experience as you can in the early stages of your career. Once you find an area you are passionate about, become the expert in the room.
My motto/mantra: Live for today, be open minded, and always be respectful.
