Episode 85 - Geoff Willetts, COO, LendLease Europe

09/06/23 • 43 min

This evening, I am joined by Geoff Willetts, Chief Operating Officer, Europe at Lendlease.

Geoff has had a career seemingly strapped to a rocket that has intertwined several industries not just property and construction, but unique to this podcast Geoff is NOT the person getting the building designed, built or occupied he has had a very different role which I will let him explain....

You can join in the discussion using our LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/

Please keep your questions and voicenotes coming. It is best to contact me on LinkedIn.

Key takeaways

In this insightful podcast transcript featuring Geoff Willetts, COO of Lend Lease Europe, and hosted by Nick Carman, several key takeaways emerge:

Adaptability and Seizing Opportunities: Geoff's journey from New Zealand to the UK underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities that come your way, even when initially fighting for recognition.
Core Skill Set and Competency: In the early stages of his career, Geoff focused on developing a core skill set and demonstrating his competency in that area. This approach helped him gain recognition within his organization.
Networking and Cross-Industry Connections: Networking, even across industries, played a pivotal role in Geoff's career growth. Building connections with the right people can open doors to new opportunities.
Resilience and Strategic Thinking: Geoff's story highlights the power of resilience and strategic thinking in navigating challenging situations and accelerating a successful career in real estate.
Diverse Experiences: Geoff's career spanned various industries and roles, including strategy, M&A, commercial, and leadership positions. Embracing diverse experiences contributed to his growth and adaptability.
Consider Options Thoroughly: When facing career or business decisions, Geoff recommends considering various options thoroughly and understanding the implications of each. Write down clear bullet points to help make informed choices.
Effective Communication: Tailor your communication to your audience's needs. Sometimes, simplifying complex information can be more effective in conveying recommendations.
Learn from All Experiences: Regardless of whether a decision turns out differently, focus on learning from the experiences and making the most of the decisions you've made. Geoff's journey demonstrates the value of adaptability, strategic thinking, networking, and continuous learning in accelerating a successful career in real estate or any field.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This evening, I am joined by Geoff Willetts, Chief Operating Officer, Europe at Lendlease.

You can join in the discussion using our LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/

Please keep your questions and voicenotes coming. It is best to contact me on LinkedIn.

Key takeaways

In this insightful podcast transcript featuring Geoff Willetts, COO of Lend Lease Europe, and hosted by Nick Carman, several key takeaways emerge:

Adaptability and Seizing Opportunities: Geoff's journey from New Zealand to the UK underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities that come your way, even when initially fighting for recognition.
Core Skill Set and Competency: In the early stages of his career, Geoff focused on developing a core skill set and demonstrating his competency in that area. This approach helped him gain recognition within his organization.
Networking and Cross-Industry Connections: Networking, even across industries, played a pivotal role in Geoff's career growth. Building connections with the right people can open doors to new opportunities.
Resilience and Strategic Thinking: Geoff's story highlights the power of resilience and strategic thinking in navigating challenging situations and accelerating a successful career in real estate.
Diverse Experiences: Geoff's career spanned various industries and roles, including strategy, M&A, commercial, and leadership positions. Embracing diverse experiences contributed to his growth and adaptability.
Consider Options Thoroughly: When facing career or business decisions, Geoff recommends considering various options thoroughly and understanding the implications of each. Write down clear bullet points to help make informed choices.
Effective Communication: Tailor your communication to your audience's needs. Sometimes, simplifying complex information can be more effective in conveying recommendations.
Learn from All Experiences: Regardless of whether a decision turns out differently, focus on learning from the experiences and making the most of the decisions you've made. Geoff's journey demonstrates the value of adaptability, strategic thinking, networking, and continuous learning in accelerating a successful career in real estate or any field.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

Episode 84 - Sunil Gomes, Senior Vice President, Giga Projects Saudi Arabia

This evening I am joined by Sunil Gomes, Senior Vice President and leader for Giga Projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, former CEO of Dubai’s Gemini Properties and Chief Development Officer for Nakheel’s Palm Jumeriah.

Sunil Gomes, a prominent figure in the real estate industry, engages in an illuminating discussion with host Nick Carman. Gomes' exceptional journey unfolds as he shares his experiences from around the world.

Gomes emphasizes the significance of cultural nuances when doing business internationally, particularly in regions like the Middle East. He delves into his time in Dubai during the transformative era under Sheikh Mohammed's leadership. Gomes' pivotal role in monumental projects like Palm Jumeirah showcases his adaptability and strategic acumen.

The conversation delves into Gomes' role as a leader. He offers insights on effective leadership, stressing the importance of respect, logical argumentation, and the avoidance of anger in professional interactions. Gomes also reflects on the evolving drivers of his career, which has shifted from personal growth and challenges to a focus on imparting knowledge and planning for retirement.

The narrative takes a turn toward Gomes' recent journey in Saudi Arabia. He highlights the incredible transformation taking place in the country and the privilege of being part of such a momentous shift.

The episode concludes with a thought-provoking listener question about traits that good leaders should avoid. Gomes emphasizes the significance of maintaining respect, avoiding anger, and presenting coherent arguments, crucial elements in effective leadership.

Sunil Gomes' remarkable journey from a humble beginning to a pivotal figure in the real estate industry serves as an inspiring testament to the power of embracing diverse experiences, cultural understanding, and unwavering leadership principles.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

Episode 86 - Patrick Flaton, Managing Partner Avignon Capital

This evening, I am joined by Patrick Flaton Managing Partner for Avignon Capital, a real estate investment and asset management firm creating and driving opportunities in the European real estate market.

You can join in the discussion using our LinkedIn group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9054319/

Please keep your questions and voicenotes coming. It is best to contact me on LinkedIn.

In the world of real estate, Patrick Flaton, Managing Partner of Avignon Capital, shares invaluable wisdom gleaned from his journey. His top 5 takeaways offer a roadmap to success:

1. Early Passion: Early exposure to the industry can ignite a lifelong passion. Flaton's roots in his father's building company shaped his career from the start.

2. Networking Power: Networking and mentorship are non-negotiable. Building relationships and finding mentors can be your secret weapon.

3. Tech Revolution: Embrace PropTech and data analytics. Stay ahead by leveraging technology and data for informed decisions.

4. Market Savvy: Understand market cycles. Knowing when to act is key in real estate investment.

5. Lifelong Learning: Adaptation is crucial. Always seek new knowledge, be open to change, and surround yourself with the right team.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you like this episode you’ll love

A Productive Conversation

Career Tools Basics

Case Interview Preparation & Management Consulting | Strategy | Critical Thinking

The Property Management Mastermind Show

Manager Tools

Episode Comments

Generate a badge

Get a badge for your website that links back to this episode

Select type & size

Copy