The real estate investment firm has appointed new UK Managing Partner
Lugus Capital, a leading Irish-based real estate investment firm, has today announced its expansion into the UK, marking a major milestone in its continued growth. The business currently manages a €900m portfolio across residential, commercial and healthcare assets. Its move into the UK reflects Lugus’ ambition to extend its investing footprint and expand capital relationships.
As part of the expansion, James Ghent will join as Managing Partner of the UK business. Prior to joining Lugus, James spent a decade at Goldman Sachs most recently as an Executive Director, originally in the Special Situations Group (later AWM Private), where he covered UK and Irish real estate and real estate credit. In addition, James spent time covering European Energy Infrastructure investing. James’ appointment will reinforce Lugus’ senior leadership team, growing the firm’s investment activity and stakeholder relationships in the UK.
Speaking on the announcement, David Hickey, Partner at Lugus, said: “I am delighted to partner with James again after several years working together at Goldman Sachs. This move marks an exciting new chapter in the Lugus journey. Having delivered consistent growth, forged lasting partnerships and a track record of navigating a changing and challenging market, expanding to the UK market is a natural next step for our growth in Lugus. We’re proud to enter the UK market with a strong foundation, a great team, and a clear sense of purpose and ambition”.
James Ghent, Managing Partner at Lugus UK, added: “I am delighted to join the Lugus team at this critical time as we seek to expand the business. The team have a strong track record in building and growing real estate platforms in Ireland. Our aim is to leverage those existing businesses and replicate that success in the UK with existing and new capital partners. We believe the market’s current macro environment provides opportunities for Lugus and our clients to invest in or create assets that deliver resilient real income on an attractive basis”.
Lugus has circa 2,000 residential units under management including schemes such as Rathmines House, Liberties House and Northern Cross and commercial assets including Blackpool Shopping Centre and Retail Park, City Gate, Cork and circa 500,000 sq ft of industrial assets in Dublin.