Commercial Real Estate

"Shaping future candidates accordingly. I will be using again.”

Associate Director, Building Consultancy

0%

of roles filled within 5 weeks of instruction.

0%

retention rate over a 24 month period.

0%

of our clients work exclusively with us.

Introducing the Commercial team

The Commercial desk at GKR was born in 2015 as an extension to our residential division. It didn't take long before the commercial team made a lasting impression with many of our clients throughout the UK and internationally. 

We are now proud to be working with at least 75% of our clients on an exclusive basis, providing permanent and contract services to leading property and construction consultancies internationally in the Private Sector including developers, banks, funds as well as the public sector.

Our Commercial Clients

Head of Asset Management: Retained

  • GKR was retained to assist with the search for a new Head of Asset Management.
  • We were given a 10-week timeline to onboard the new starter in line with the predecessor's departure date, whilst offering a period for handover.
  • We were tasked with a direct, pre-identified headhunt and additionally sourced a shortlist of three other suitable candidates.
  • Having coordinated interviews for all candidates, the successful candidate was onboarded following their 2 months’ notice. 
  • We have subsequently placed two others from the interview process into the team.

Global Property Consultancy

Head of Acquisition – Retained Search

  • GKR were retained with special mandate to secure a Head of Acquisition for a high growth private equity backed commerce business that had significant land requirement.
  • Due to the nature of the business this presented a unique challenge in securing talent that would move away from tradition acquisition roles.
  • We set out a process structure including personality testing with the successful candidate moving from a developer and embarking on the journey the client and GKR had laid out.

Commercial Business


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Embark on a journey of success in the commercial real estate sector with GKR's specialised recruitment services. Our seasoned team collaborates seamlessly with Building Surveyors, Quantity Surveyors, and professionals in General Practice, ensuring that your projects are managed with precision and excellence.

Whether you're delving into Development, Project Management, Office Leasing, or navigating Acquisitions and Disposals, GKR is your trusted partner. Our expertise extends across Consultancies, Client-side organisations, Contractors, and Public Sector entities, providing tailored solutions for both temporary and permanent projects.

We understand the unique demands of each facet of commercial real estate and are dedicated to connecting top-tier talent with the best opportunities.

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Common Commercial Questions

We specialise in recruiting for diverse commercial real estate roles, including surveying, property management, leasing, development, and project management.

Certainly, our consultants stay abreast of market trends, and currently, we're observing increased demand for sustainability-focused roles within commercial real estate.

Tailor your resume to highlight specific achievements in real estate projects, emphasising skills such as market analysis, negotiation, and project management.

Career paths often start with roles like analyst or associate, progressing to manager, director, and executive levels. We provide personalised guidance based on your aspirations and skills.

Timelines vary, but we aim for an efficient process. From initial contact to final interviews, it typically takes three to six weeks, allowing for thorough candidate evaluations and client decision-making.

Meet the Commercial team

Andy Irvine Andy Irvine
Associate Director
Joined January 2024

Andy Irvine

This new development offers expansive panoramic views of the city.

Andy Irvine has joined GKR as Associate Director specialising in Commercial Real Estate recruitment. With an impressive track record of 15+ years in the industry, Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for talent. Beyond his professional prowess, Andy is known for his passion for comedy and football, adding a touch of humour and team spirit to our dynamic workplace. ⚽

Grant Kaveney Grant Kaveney
Founding Director
Joined July 2010

Grant Kaveney

Boasting an enviable position and state-of-the-art outdoor braai.  

In 2010, it was the right time for Grant embark on his own adventure after helping scale a recruitment business from South Africa. Biltong is almost always the answer; he makes his very own for the team and it's not to be missed! An avid fisherman, Liverpool supporter, proud South-African and strangely capable beatboxer - watch out Ed Sheeran!

Lee  Riley Lee  Riley
Senior Director
Joined October 2016

Lee Riley

A perfect example of period property with luxuriously fitted carpets.

Lee has worked in residential recruitment since late 2015 after working in the property sector for almost seven years himself. Whilst our entire team’s food bin/hoover, he’s a self-declared Asian food addict. Historically pooch obsessed; now with a fur baby of his own, he’s got the situation under control.

Michael Woda Michael Woda
Partner, Head of Residential
Joined July 2014

Michael Woda

Distinctive features throughout and striking white render.

Michael joined GKR as one of our first key hires in 2014 bringing with him eight years’ experience in property, now responsible for a team of six. If not in the office hoping for a whole in one, you’ll likely find him on the course – aye! Not to mention Brick Lane, devouring the Indian delicacies.

We specialise in five key sectors

  • Commercial

    The commercial team provide permanent and contract services to leading property and construction consultancies in the Private & Public Sectors as well as developers, banks and funds.

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  • Residential

    With experienced consultants and ex-property professionals in one team, they are market experts working with High Street Agents, Corporate giants, Developers and Investment Agencies.

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  • Property Management & Office Support

    With first-hand experience in both roles, we represent Managing Agents, Facilities Services, High Street Agents, Student Accommodation providers, Investment Funds, Interiors & Design practices supplying property management and office support functions.

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  • Built Environment

    The team have worked hard to develop long standing relationships with practices ranging in size, niche and specialism throughout the design and build industry delivering both permanent and professional interim/contract solutions.

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  • Finance & Investment

    Our finance division is comprised of a specialist team placing individuals across development, investment, funds and advisory across the UK and Europe. Our clients span Finance & Accountancy, Private Equity, Debt, Property Companies, REIT’s and Advisory from Analyst to Director/Partner level.

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