The Property Interview – Peter Knight

How difficult is it to operate in the property sector at this time?

The economy is difficult and likely to remain so for the foreseeable future.

However, I can’t deny that I have been inspired and encouraged by the strategic re-thinking that has come about as a result of the environment we are working in.

We are being forced to be more efficient with our use of commercial space and delivering schemes that promote change and opportunity within the sector whether it means consolidation or relocation.

One thing that is evident is that bespoke advice and support is essential in order to identify successful individual solutions, there can be no ‘one size fits all’ approach.

Looking into your crystal ball, what are your predictions for the industry over the coming months?

As a nation I think it is essential that we become more competitive, invest in longer term industries such as manufacturing and infrastructure, and be able to communicate and attract investment from abroad.

If this can be achieved then our region will face a wealth of opportunity and is well positioned to be the solution on all fronts as London and the South East become not only an increasingly expensive alternative, but one that is outstripping its resource and infrastructure requirements.

The foresight and success of projects such as MediaCityUK, Spinningfields and Liverpool One help us to reinforce the region as a professional, credible development and business hub.

If you could improve anything in the region, what would it be?

I would like to see more collaboration between our regional cities to achieve the greater good. The joined up approach of Salford and Manchester City Council in securing and delivering MediaCityUK is a fantastic example of this and I think that it’s this joint strength that needs to be utilised more regularly to further position the North West as a region that is constantly evolving and striving for excellence.

There are some really exciting projects coming up, the likes of NOMA and Airport City are going to be extremely important for the regional economy and it would be great if they came into fruition in the same speedy, fuss-free way that we experienced with MediaCityUK.   

How does the North West commercial property market compare to other regions in the UK?

The North West is unique; its rich tapestry of heritage and forward thinking business minds is something that we are all immensely proud of. Having said that, we need to start thinking bigger.

We are the leading regional economy outside of London and the South East and if we continue to work together, the North West has a real opportunity to compete internationally as well as nationally.

What has been your biggest business mistake/achievement?

At the risk of sounding twee, I have learnt that my greatest business achievements have followed as a result of identifying and ensuring clients’ needs are met.

I take genuine delight in understanding and achieving our clients’ aims while ensuring the journey along the way is an enjoyable one for all by adopting a one team philosophy.

I have had the privilege of helping Reuters in their move out of the City of London into Canary Wharf; Newham Council from their sprawling vast estate into one world class facility opposite London’s City Airport and more recently the BBC’s move to Salford.

While these are some of the more recent projects, helping every single client realise their aspirations is extremely satisfying for me personally as well as being the simplest and most effective motivational tool for my team.

What is the best project you’ve been involved in?

The BBC facility at MediaCityUK – not only for the truly inspirational working environment that has been created but also for the social impact it has had and will continue to have on the region.

Despite the external pressures and scrutiny that often exists with such high profile projects, the team took a risk and trusted each other in operating as a single unit. Aspirations were shared, challenges deliberated upon and mistakes were openly discussed and learnt from. The success of each individual and company involved was absolutely dependent upon the success of the project as a whole. A delight to be involved with and the best example of real teamwork in action I have ever come across.

I think the real impact of this project and the excitement it has generated has only become apparent since completion. Whether it is the opportunities brought by a new national employer in town, or the slow realisation of the business growth it is attracting, there is no doubt that this project will continue to have an enormous positive influence on the region. All credit to those who had the vision and foresight to create MediaCityUK on paper and then took the risks to make it a reality.

What drives you to be the best in your field?

Clients, competitors and the ambition to be the best I can be. I’m very aware that ensuring client satisfaction determines my success, so delivering projects to the highest possible standard is vital. I also thrive on competition and as a result I am encouraged to be kept on my toes at all times to win work.

Overbury has its own quality standard called Perfect Delivery. It’s a standard of perfection in our project delivery which is awarded by the client. Since its inception over ten years ago we’ve been delivering over 90% of our projects perfectly and it’s something that we as an organisation pride ourselves on. But I never forget that when we achieve it, it is down to the dedication, skill and honesty of the team that get us there.

Name the person who has most inspired you and the one who has had the biggest influence on your career.

The most inspirational person is probably my father who has always been reliable, solid and carried a sense of social responsibility rather than entitlement.

As far as colleagues are concerned, they are simply too numerous to mention, so many people have unintentionally taught me so many things. I find it fascinating how we all operate and express ourselves in different ways.

What are the best and worst pieces of advice you’ve been given?

Best: When in the room be in the room and you CAN choose your attitude.
Worst: Relax. It will work out.