EDITOR’S COMMENT Well, here it is. The final leader column of 2022. The last time before the end of the year I get to use this great platform to speak to you about the exceptional industry in which you work. The last time this year that I get to remind you of the great things that this sector can do. And to nudge you to do more.
There’s plenty of nudging in the pages of this issue, with an in-depth look (and listen if you head to the EG Property Podcast channel – available on all good podcast players) at the E, the S and the G of ESG. Plenty of work done. Plenty to do.
The last printed issue of the year (still plenty more to come online) takes a look back at what has turned out to be somewhat of a rollercoaster of a year. From the highs of the Covid-19 bounceback in the early months of the year, to record inflation levels, comedy governments and then some of the slowest and lowest investment volumes we have seen for a little while.
Looking back over the past 12 months, it has been quite the year of ups and downs. But looking at some of the key words that jump out from all of those pages (see above), you cannot help but feel a little bit warm and fuzzy about the sector – in spite of the chill wind (metaphorically and actually) that is currently blowing.
The themes that stand out are about the unique power of the sector to make a difference, about the responsibility we all hold to be better. They are about how this industry is about more than buildings and deals, it is about people and place. It’s about being bothered, about seeing, listening and doing something positive.
I have written here numerous times about how real estate is full of amazing leaders. About how this sector could teach others (our government, in particular) a thing or two about good, responsible business. This page has given space to the young talent that we have, talent that we are working hard to make sure isn’t hidden. We’ve even showcased the importance – especially in these more turbulent times – of our more mature leaders. Anyone who has been round the block a few times – if they still have the energy – will be an invaluable asset over the next year or two.
Change, transformation and being better have all been common themes here. And not just because I care about those things, but because it is what I see in all of you. What I write on this page is rarely original thought, I’ve borrowed it from you. I have watched what you’re doing, I’ve asked what you care about and I’ve spread the message. And I’ve loved every second of it. Thank you.
Towards the end of the year, there has been a little less cheer. Gloom, weathering the storm and dark days became perhaps overused terms. But this is the cycle of real estate we are used to. The ups, the downs, the tough days and the easy days. We get through it. And we will again.
But for now, from me and from the whole of the EG team, thank you for caring and thank you for sharing (the highs, the lows, the deals and the data). All we ask of you, in 2023 and beyond, is to keep daring to be better and to push forward on real estate’s magnificent transformation.
We’ll be doing the same, alongside you, every step of the way.
To send feedback, e-mail samantha.mcclary@eg.co.uk or tweet @samanthamcclary or @EGPropertyNews
