WELBECK ESTATE GROUP
OUR MANAGEMENT
Chairman & Cheif Executive Officer
Mr. Roger Byron-Collins
Mr. Roger Byron-Collins stands as one of the most significant private estate owners, with a career and portfolio that underscore his profound impact on the residential property market. His journey into real estate is both rooted in personal history and marked by strategic acumen, making his story both compelling and instructive.
Born the son of an RAF aircrew officer, Mr. Byron-Collins experienced the unique life of living in Officer Married Quarters (OMQs) from the 1940s to the 1960s. This early exposure provided him with a deep and practical understanding of property management, as well as a detailed knowledge of the design and construction of such properties. These formative years shaped his insights into the intricacies of residential living spaces, planting the seeds for his future endeavors in the real estate industry.
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Mr. Byron-Collins' professional foray into the world of real estate began in central London with Fordham Investments, under the mentorship of David Rowland. This experience laid a robust foundation for his subsequent ventures. Over the past 45 years, he has specialized in residential properties, demonstrating a keen eye for identifying valuable investments and a talent for enhancing their worth through careful management and refurbishment.
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One of the highlights of his career came in 1980 when Mr. Byron-Collins acquired four large residential estates opposite the Pentagon in Washington DC. This bold move not only expanded his portfolio internationally but also showcased his ability to manage significant properties across borders. His expertise in handling large estates did not stop there. Throughout the UK, he became known for purchasing, developing, and refurbishing extensive institutional housing estates, blocks of flats, and residential properties. His work involved managing many thousands of property units, a testament to his capacity for large-scale operations.
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A notable example of his extensive portfolio includes the Grand Junction Estate covering (over 5 acres) Estate in Paddington, London. Located just a quarter-mile from Marble Arch, this estate encompasses all houses bounded by Praed Street, Sussex Gardens, Edgware Road, and Norfolk Place. This prime piece of real estate reflects Mr. Byron-Collins' strategic acumen in selecting and enhancing high-value properties. Additionally, his acquisition of extensive estates of National Coal Board housing throughout the East Midlands in the early 1980s further underscores his ability to recognize and capitalize on unique investment opportunities.
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Mr. Byron-Collins' impressive achievements are highlighted by his involvement in one of the largest deals ever conducted in the UK property market. He was the immediate underbidder, having raised and bid £1.66 billion for the Ministry of Defence's (MOD) 55,000-house Married Quarter Estate. This audacious bid underscores his financial prowess and his readiness to engage in high-stakes transactions, further cementing his reputation as a formidable player in the real estate sector.
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Expanding his investment horizons, Mr. Byron-Collins has now extended his expertise across the European Union and the United States, diversifying into various classes of strong asset types. This strategic expansion demonstrates his ability to adapt and thrive in different markets, leveraging his extensive experience to identify and invest in lucrative opportunities across multiple sectors.
Despite being a non-resident, Mr. Byron-Collins maintains a strong connection to the UK, visiting regularly to oversee his properties and investments. His ongoing commitment to his portfolio and the market demonstrates his enduring passion for real estate and his sustained influence in the field.
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Mr. Roger Byron-Collins' journey from the son of an RAF officer to one of the largest private estate owners is marked by a blend of personal history, professional expertise, and strategic investments. His work has left an indelible mark on the residential property market, both in the UK and internationally, showcasing his unparalleled ability to manage and enhance vast estates. Now, with his investments spanning across the EU and the USA in a wide range of asset classes, Mr. Byron-Collins continues to exemplify visionary leadership and investment prowess in the global real estate arena.
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Partner
Mr. Steven Copas
Mr. Steven Copas, previously worked (15 years) for The Itochu Corporation., between, London, New York and Tokyo, as a senior executive. During his tenure they achieved No 3 on the fortune 500.
Mr. Copas, worked within the property and commodities sectors and now specialises in property development to consulting, valuation to transaction, property management and investment management,
Mr. Copas,, has covered all types of real estate assets: commercial, residential and rural. Working with the world’s largest funds and banks, which means he has unique access to global partners, macro intelligence and financial services and products. This is further enhanced by our partner's affiliation with the International Real Estate groups, enabling access to our real estate professionals, across the globe, on a wide range of asset classes.
Mr. Copas, handles the investments on a wide range of properties, from the largest investment residential blocks & new build apartments to all types of commercial investments. Our property investment strategies are supported by industry-leading research and a bespoke, personal service, in order to fulfil our and our partner's investment needs to their maximum potential.
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Partner
Mr. Barney Buik
Mr. Barney Buik, has demonstrated considerable expertise and success in raising equity for property investments. Most recently, he has established a specialised fund tailored for pension eligibility, aimed at facilitating indirect investment. This innovative fund structure allows pension funds to diversify their portfolios with property assets, providing a stable and potentially lucrative investment vehicle.
In addition to his work on indirect investment,
Mr Buik has a proven track record in securing equity for direct investment into properties. His efforts in this arena have been particularly noteworthy, culminating in the successful raising of over £100 million for various specific projects. These projects span a range of investments, highlighting his ability to attract substantial capital and deliver tangible results within the property sector.
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Moreover, Mr Buik's experience is not limited to a single type of investment. His strategic initiatives have involved both residential and commercial properties, thus catering to a broad spectrum of investment preferences. This versatility not only showcases his comprehensive understanding of the property market but also his ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and investor requirements.
Mr Buik's dual focus on both direct and indirect property investments underscores his comprehensive understanding of the market and his capability to meet diverse investor needs. His strategic approach and successful fundraising efforts position him as a key figure in the realm of property investment, adept at leveraging opportunities to achieve significant financial growth and stability for clients.
His commitment to innovation and excellence in fund management, combined with his extensive network of investors, further enhances his reputation as a leader in the field.
Mr Buik's ability to navigate complex investment landscapes and deliver consistent results makes him an invaluable asset to any property investment endeavour. His track record of success and forward-thinking investment strategies ensure that his contributions will continue to drive the growth and success of property investment portfolios.
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Partner
Mr. Steven Jones
Mr. Steven Jones, served as the Head of the Property Finance Team for Barclays bank in the West of England a position that underscored his extensive expertise and leadership in the property finance sector. After an illustrious tenure spanning 33 years at Barclays, Mr Jones, decided to retire from the bank to lend his considerable experience and knowledge to our team. His departure from Barclays marked the end of a significant era, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping the property finance landscape within the region. Throughout his career at Barclays,
Mr Jones developed an in-depth understanding of the property sector, which was bolstered by his senior position within the Barclays Finance Team. His role required not only a strategic vision but also a robust operational understanding of the intricacies involved in property financing. This enabled him to effectively oversee and guide a multitude of sizeable projects, ensuring their successful funding and execution.
Mr Jones’s hands-on experience is a testament to his proficiency and commitment to the field. Since the early 1990s, he has been instrumental in securing funding for numerous large-scale projects, demonstrating his capability to navigate the complexities of property finance. His involvement in these projects provided him with practical insights and a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the sector. In addition to his technical acumen,
Mr Jones’s leadership was marked by a keen ability to foster strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. His tenure at Barclays was characterised by a dedication to excellence and an unwavering focus on delivering results, attributes that have earned him a stellar reputation in the industry. Upon joining our team,
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Mr Jones brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will undoubtedly enhance their capabilities. His background equips him with a unique perspective, enabling him to contribute effectively to the team’s objectives and drive forward their strategic initiatives in the property finance sector. The combination of his extensive industry knowledge, practical experience, and proven leadership skills makes him an invaluable addition to any organisation aiming to excel in property finance.
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Partner
Mr. Alan Radley
Mr. Alan Radley, served as our Group Finance Director for an impressive tenure of 18 years. During this extensive period, he gained substantial and comprehensive experience in the management and acquisition of the diverse types of assets procured by our group of companies. His expertise was not limited to financial oversight; he eventually assumed a critical role in project management, overseeing the implementation and execution of numerous significant schemes. This role required him to ensure that projects were completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality, thereby contributing significantly to the group's overall success and growth.
Before assuming his role as Group Finance Director.
Mr Radley, honed his skills and expertise while working for a prestigious firm of Chartered Accountants. In this capacity, he was intimately involved in the auditing processes of many of our companies. This experience provided him with an in-depth understanding of our financial practices, regulatory compliance, and operational structures. His background in auditing equipped him with a keen eye for detail and a thorough grasp of financial regulations and standards, which he effectively leveraged in his subsequent role within our group.
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Mr Radley's, dual experience in both auditing and finance within the corporate environment has been instrumental in shaping his strategic vision and operational acumen. His ability to manage complex financial portfolios, coupled with his project management capabilities, has made him a pivotal figure in the group's leadership. His tenure has been marked by a consistent commitment to excellence, a strategic approach to asset management, and a dedication to upholding the highest standards of financial integrity and operational efficiency.
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Consultant
Mr. David N. A. Simpson FRICS
Mr. David Simpson brings a wealth of experience spanning over four decades in the realm of property investment. With an extensive background that encompasses all classes of assets,
Mr. Simpson has consistently demonstrated his expertise and strategic acumen in the industry. His comprehensive understanding of diverse asset classes, coupled with his proven track record, underscores his significant contributions to the field of property investment.
Mr. Simpson, has navigated various market cycles and economic conditions, further solidifying his reputation as a seasoned and knowledgeable professional in property investment.
Over the years, Mr. Simpson, has been involved in a myriad of high-profile transactions, providing invaluable insights and guidance to his clients. His ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to changing economic landscapes has enabled him to achieve substantial returns on investments and minimise risks.
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Mr. Simpson's, strategic approach to property investment is characterised by thorough market analysis, meticulous due diligence, and a deep understanding of the economic factors influencing the property sector.
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In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mr. Simpson is known for his commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability within the property investment community. He has been instrumental in championing sustainable development practices, advocating for green building standards, and promoting energy-efficient technologies. His dedication to these initiatives reflects his forward-thinking mindset and his desire to contribute positively to the industry and the environment.
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Mr. Simpson's leadership extends beyond individual transactions; he has also played a pivotal role in shaping industry standards and best practices. As a respected thought leader, he frequently shares his insights through speaking engagements, publications, and mentorship programmes. His contributions to industry discussions and policy development have helped to advance the field of property investment and ensure its continued growth and evolution.
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Mr. Simpson's, illustrious career in property investment is marked by his extensive experience, strategic expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to navigate complex market dynamics, coupled with his advocacy for innovation and sustainability, has made him a distinguished figure in the industry.
Mr. Simpson's, enduring legacy is one of significant impact and lasting influence, reflecting his dedication to both his clients and the broader property investment community.
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