In this episode, Vince sits down with Sammy Kingston, COO of Adeline Grantham, a fourth-generation, family-run investment and development business that's been shaping London's built environment for nearly 80 years. Sammy's career is anything but conventional. From leaving school at 16 to joining CBRE's apprenticeship scheme, he's since built an impressive career spanning leasing, investment, technology and leadership working across CBRE, Kontor, VTS and now running a family office in the heart of London's West End. Together, Vince and Sammy explore: Why trust and empowerment are the foundation of great leadership The difference between corporate experience and entrepreneurial freedom How empathy and relationship-building drive long-term value in property Why upfront thinking and due diligence prevent costly project mistakes The shift towards strategic, tenant-focused and flexible workplaces How technology and market change are redefining London's office landscape Sammy also shares his candid take on imposter syndrome, the changing dynamics of post-COVID work and why career paths in property no longer need to follow the traditional route. His journey from "being politely asked to leave school" to becoming COO of a legacy business is a powerful story about curiosity, trust, and creating your own version of success. About Follow Sammy on Linkedin here. Adeline Grantham: Since the post-war period, we have been at the forefront of Central London office property, developing, owning and managing buildings with care and foresight. Our approach is value-driven and long-term, with a strong focus on stewardship and sustainable investment. We continue to own and manage many of the properties our family built decades ago, while actively pursuing new real estate opportunities that align with our principles and vision for the future. About Spark Spark London Spark recognises the world is faster, more innovative and more dynamic than ever before. We strongly believe in challenging the standard processes, placing our clients' most common Real Estate Pain Points at the centre of how we approach our services. We consciously restore the balance to high levels of services in a pragmatic, grounded and streamlined way. We believe in being human, authentic and service-focused. About Spark Spark London Spark recognises the world is faster, more innovative and more dynamic than ever before. We strongly believe in challenging the standard processes, placing our clients' most common Real Estate Pain Points at the centre of how we approach our services. We consciously restore the balance to high levels of services in a pragmatic, grounded and streamlined way. We believe in being human, authentic and service-focused.
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1 hr and 6 mins
59 mins
58 mins