Avison Young poaches Colliers’ Ward

Chris Ward has joined the global real estate advisor’s Manchester office as a capital markets director.

Ward will work alongside principal David Winterbottom and surveyor Beth Newman to advise Avison Young clients on the best ways to manage and grow their property portfolios.

Before joining Avison Young, Ward had worked 12 years at Colliers. He had started his career at the firm as a graduate surveyor, working his way up to associate director in the capital markets team.

“I’m delighted to be joining Avison Young at such a critical time in its journey of growth,” Ward said.

“With a host of projects underway in Manchester and the wider North West region, I’m very much looking forward to collaborating with new colleagues and playing my part as we drive forward our vision for the future.”

Ward’s hire will not be the only one in Avison Young’s investment teams, teased capital markets principal Mark Frampton.

Frampton said: “This marks a positive start to the year, as we look to further grow our investment teams across the UK, with a focus on Bristol, Leeds and Edinburgh, and complements the recent appointment of Scott Mitchell, director of retail investment, based in London.”

Avison Young’s regional managing director for Manchester, Barry Crichton, added his own congratulations to Ward.

“We’re very pleased to be bringing Chris on board in Manchester,” Crichton said. “It’s an exciting time for the firm and the office, with ambitious plans for growth underway. Regional investment is a crucial part of our wider strategy, and Chris’s appointment will certainly help to support our goal of delivering real value to our clients.”