Cushman & Wakefield Partner, Rhys James, one of the best-known figures in the South Wales property market, is to retire after 37 years with the firm.
Rhys joined as a surveyor in Cardiff in 1983 and in 2003 he was appointed Head of the Cardiff office. Throughout his tenure Rhys has been instrumental in building and maintaining the firm’s market leading position. He is recognised as one of the region’s leading office market experts, advising occupier, owner and developer clients. He has played a key role throughout the transformation of Cardiff city centre, which is most obvious in the redevelopment of Central Square incorporating the new BBC headquarters.
Rhys James said: “Taking over as Head of the Cardiff office in 2003 was a particularly proud moment for me but frankly I’ve enjoyed the whole of my 37 years. I’ve always been very happy and proud to be part of this business. We’ve maintained a leading position in the property profession within South Wales and I’m pleased that Cushman & Wakefield commands that respect and reputation today. I will be leaving the business in very good hands.”
Jon Leedham, Head of Business Space Regions at Cushman & Wakefield, said: “I have worked closely with Rhys since 2003 and his total commitment to the firm, his clients and to Cardiff has been a been a feature throughout that time. Rhys has been hugely influential not only in the Cardiff office market but also in maintaining our wider profile and influence in the city, while also leading our office for a number of years with drive and enthusiasm. I wish him all the very best in the future and thank him for his significant contribution to Cushman & Wakefield.”
Last year, Richard Murphy succeeded Rhys as Head of the Cardiff office.
Richard Murphy, Head of Cushman & Wakefield’s Cardiff office said: “I would like to thank Rhys for his commitment to our Cardiff business over an impressively long career with the firm, spanning several decades of immense change within Cardiff and South Wales. Following my becoming head of the office last year and a helpful period of transition, Rhys leaves the business in an extremely strong position for the future. I wish him and his family all the very best.”
Based at Dumfries Place, Cushman & Wakefield’s Cardiff office delivers a full range of services and has been instrumental in much of the recent development activity across South Wales.