After 25 years at Weatheralls, where Greg Cooke was the senior partner, and more than 12 years as UK Chairman of BNP Paribas Real Estate, the leading property adviser, he has retired.
Greg left the business officially in October 2013, remaining as a consultant for six months.
Some of Greg’s career highlights include his instrumental role in putting together the merger between Weatheralls and August-Thouard and Mueller in 2001, forming Atisreal, which was later bought by BNP Paribas, and his involvement of the disposal of Willis’ previous head office building at 10 Trinity Square, which was sold for in excess of £100m for redevelopment into a flagship hotel with serviced apartments. Willis then relocated to a new development of approximately 360,000 sq ft at Lime Street opposite the Lloyds Building.
During his time spent in the US in the 1980s, Greg was significantly involved in the letting and redevelopment of the Heron Tower for Gerald Ronson on East 55th Street. In addition, Greg has been heavily involved internationally, helping expand the company globally, including his involvement setting up the TransWestern alliance.
Speaking of his retirement, Greg said: “After a long career within the property industry, I have decided to retire. However, I will continue to be involved in the property world as a consultant, as well as spending more time sailing and skiing.
“Throughout my career, the world of real estate has changed; we’ve all grown up, as people and as an industry. Positively, I have seen BNP Paribas Real Estate, as a company and brand, become far more international, strengthen its UK position and take the course for further future success.”
BNP Paribas Real Estate’s UK CEO, John Slade, added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Greg for everything he has done for the company, as well as the help and support he has given me personally since joining the business in 2012. He will be missed but we hope to see him regularly.”
