John Forrester, global president of Cushman & Wakefield, reflects on more than three decades in real estate, lessons learnt from booms and busts, diversity and what he expects from the next generation.
In a conversation with EG, Forrester says: “I felt at home in this industry wherever it’s been in the world. It doesn’t matter where that door is – Shanghai or Tokyo or Newcastle – I always feel at home. I feel comfortable. I feel safe.”
But he says Cushman & Wakefield – and property more broadly – are on a journey to extend that to everyone. The industry needs more diversity, Forrester says, and it is up to today’s leaders to make it so.
“The leaders are responsible. We define the roadway within which the organisation has to operate. If we don’t set stretching targets, if we don’t ensure that our environment is welcoming and safe – that people are allowed to fail and be themselves – then that’s our fault.”
He goes on to reveal his advice for those, like his son, who have just started in property and gives us a glimpse into “John the person”: his love of authors named James or Elroy, his funeral playlist, thumbs up emojis and the teacher who made the biggest difference in his life.
EG Like Sunday Morning: Beset by tricks, but filled with awards night and BTR treats
What will the Autumn Budget deliver for real estate?
EG Like Sunday Morning: Letting voices be heard on D&I
Voice of the Region: West Midlands – Politics of logistics
Bricks & Mortar: Hollis’s Katherine Beisler on the benefits of its new junior board
Rollercoaster rides and roadmaps: Real estate’s ESG journey
EG Like Sunday Morning: Back in the studio!
How to move from embracing to celebrating difference
On the Case: The blockbuster Covid rent arrears decision in Trocadero
Future of Real Estate: Can Birmingham win gold?
The role of the office in post-pandemic London
The power of difference
As Government fails to put words into action around affordable housing for London‘s keyworkers, can real estate step up and plug the gap?
How do investors see post-pandemic London?
Unlocking the power of the web of life sciences
EG Like Sunday Morning: Wellbeing in real estate
‘We can’t stop the conversation’: Wellbeing and real estate after Covid
Voice of the Region: Wiltshire – Retail reawakens
Why social value is critical to the evolution of UK life sciences
“Don’t accept the residential market as it is. Ask for better and demand flexibility.” Inside JLL and Lavanda‘s rival to Airbnb
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Everyday Millionaire
Pure Hustle Podcast
Making Bank
The Ramsey Show
Planet Money