Pictured above: Geoff Thomas
One of the leading figures in Birmingham's property sector,
Geoff Thomas, Regional Chairman of DTZ, has announced his
retirement. Geoff, who has been with the firm for over 38 years,
will be leaving at the end of December this year but will continue
on a part-time consultancy basis.
Geoff joined the firm as a graduate in 1972 when it was
Birmingham-based Chesshire Gibson & Company, and with
specialisms in offices, retail and investment, he was made Partner
in 1982. Six years later the 200 year old company merged with
Debenham Tewson before becoming DTZ in 1993.
In 1997 Geoff was appointed Regional Chairman covering the
midlands and the position was extended to encompass the firm's
midlands and south west region in 2002.
During his time at DTZ, Geoff has been involved in the
development of some of the most iconic buildings in Birmingham,
including Victoria Square House, the Wesleyan building, Calthorpe
House and No.1 Colmore Square where DTZ is currently based. More
recently, he advised Wragge & Co on the acquisition of Two Snow
Hill, the largest ever pre-let agreement in the city centre, and
the redevelopment of New Street station.
He has also advised some of the largest landed estates in
Birmingham including the Calthorpe Estate and Colmore Estate.
David Tonks, Director, who currently heads up DTZ's office
agency and development team in Birmingham, commented: "Geoff has
been instrumental in leading the Birmingham office from its
historic beginnings to a thriving part of the midlands and south
west business and DTZ's global network. He leaves behind him a team
of 250 in Birmingham who will continue to drive the business
forward."
Jon Leedham, Regional Managing Director, added: "We would like
to thank Geoff for his terrific contribution to the business and
wish him every success in his future pursuits."
Born in Zimbabwe, Geoff first arrived in the UK in 1968 to study
physics at the University of Birmingham and has lived in the city
ever since. He began his career in accountancy before deciding to
pursue a career in property.
Geoff said: "I have been very fortunate to have played a part in
the exciting evolution of DTZ and it has been extremely rewarding
to see how the business has grown and developed into one of the
leading property advisory firms in the world. I have thoroughly
enjoyed my role as Regional Chairman for the last 13 years but feel
now is the right time to hand over the reins."