Simon Robinson to head up BNP Paribas Real Estate’s Birmingham office

SIMON Robinson, one of the best known figures in Birmingham’s commercial property sector, has left GBR Phoenix Beard to take up the reins as head of Birmingham at rival consultancy BNP Paribas Real Estate (BNPRE).

In something of a surprise move, Robinson – the ‘R’ in GBR – replaces Paul Rixon in the top job locally at BNPRE. Rixon has left to take up a new role as director at fellow Birmingham consultancy MK2 Real Estate.

Robinson has more than 30 years’ experience in the investment and occupational markets in the UK, US and Asia. After a successful career at Richard Ellis – now CBRE – including three years as head of the Birmingham office, he co-founded GBR Property Consultants in 2003 with John Griffiths and Steve Benson.

The office leasing and investment agency business merged with property management company Phoenix Beard in 2010.

Robinson has also served as Investment Property Forum Midlands chairman and is well known for the central role he plays at the light-hearted annual property sector charity event The Brendas.
 
He has transacted a number of high-profile buildings in Birmingham for national and international clients, including One Eleven Edmund Street for Hines, Ediston Europa’s purchase of St Philips Point and 54 Hagley Road, Edgbaston for Westbrook Partners, as well as the recent sale of The Exchange, Newhall Street, to a Singaporean investor.
 
BNP Paribas Real Estate’s UK CEO John Slade said: “We are pleased to announce Simon’s appointment to the business, as he will bring with him a wealth of experience and Midlands market expertise.

“He will be responsible for the delivery of our ambitious growth plans in the region and Birmingham, which is one of the company’s key regional offices.”
 
It is understood the GBR Phoenix Beard name will remain unchanged despite Robinson’s departure.