This week Nick talks to Duncan Garrood

Duncan Garrood is CEO of Empiric Student Property, Originally trained as a scientist, he transitioned into the corporate world, spending 20 years at Unilever in various global roles across production, sales, and marketing. He played a key role in expanding business operations, including launching an ice cream division in China. Over the years, he took on leadership roles in hospitality, aviation, and leisure, overseeing transformations at companies like Punch Taverns and Ten Entertainment. His career has been defined by adaptability, embracing opportunities across different industries, and executing successful turnaround strategies and large-scale expansions. 

Nick and Duncan discuss strategic growth, transformation, and market positioning, particularly in the student property sector with Empiric Student Property. Duncan emphasised the importance of aligning business strategy with market demand, particularly in catering to international and postgraduate students seeking a premium, boutique accommodation experience. They explored the challenges of acquiring and optimizing property portfolios, adapting to economic shifts, and navigating investment landscapes. Duncan also highlighted the role of data-driven decision-making, customer-centric business models, and maintaining a strong brand identity, drawing parallels between his past experiences in multinational corporations and property investment. 

Duncan's Book Choice was:
I, Robot - Isaac Asimov
https://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/i-robot/product/HD_302753825?sku=HD_302753825

Duncan's Music Choice was:
Pink Floyd - Shine On You Crazy Diamond
https://open.spotify.com/track/6pnwfWyaWjQiHCKTiZLItr

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