International hire adds further firepower to CBRE’s growing Living Sectors Capital Markets platform

CBRE has further strengthened its Living Sectors Capital Markets platform with the appointment of highly experienced property professional Alex Shaw, who has transferred from the firm’s London office.

Mr Shaw brings nine years of residential transactions and advisory experience in the London and South East England markets to his new role as Director, Living Sectors Capital Markets – Pacific.

His relocation to CBRE’s Sydney office follows last year’s appointment of Andrew Purdon to lead the firm’s Pacific Capital Markets Living Sectors service offering in the fast-growing build-to-rent (BTR), purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), co-living and affordable housing sectors.

“Alex’s appointment aligns with increased demand for international Capital Markets expertise in the Living Sectors as institutional investors seek access to residential opportunities in Australia,” Mr Purdon said.

“The appetite for BTR is particularly strong and is underpinned by the proven resilience of the asset class globally combined with exceptionally strong demand drivers and record low vacancy rates across Australian cities. Alex’s experience in the more mature UK Living Sectors market will enhance our ability to provide development and investment advice to landowners, developers, and investors at all stages of the project lifecycle.”

In addition to growing the Capital Markets platform, Mr Purdon noted that CBRE was enhancing its capabilities across multiple services related to Living Sectors including Debt & Structured Finance, Valuation & Advisory, Development & Infrastructure and Research in response to clients’ increased focus on residential rental investment models.

Prior to relocating to Australia, Mr Shaw specialised in advising major UK property companies, developers, and institutional funds on town centre/brownfield regeneration projects, with a residential development focus. He brings a blend of advisory and transaction expertise to CBRE’s Pacific business.

Mr Shaw noted; “It’s an auspicious time for Living Sectors growth in the Pacific region. The level of appetite for residential rental development and investment opportunities is very strong. Investors are recognising the global phenomenon of renewed demand for city and town centre living post COVID, at the same time as build to sell apartment supply is dwindling. Our aim is to utilise our experience and lessons learned in other markets to drive growth in the BTR sector.”