Shenton Group, the Manchester-based real estate investor, has appointed Chris Middleton as sales and leasing director as it works to expand its city centre office portfolio.
Middleton joins the business following senior roles at Bruntwood, Vita Group and London’s Cadogan Estates, "bringing extensive experience in commercial leasing and delivering best in class customer experience", the firm said.
In the role he will lead the group’s leasing strategy, "focusing on stabilising and activating newly acquired buildings and ensuring best-in-class customer service for occupiers".
"He will also play a key role in supporting the business’ acquisition strategy as it continues to identify opportunities within Manchester’s growing office market," Shenton Group added.
Middleton, a Manchester native, said: "It’s a great time to be back in Manchester, the city is thriving and there’s real momentum across the commercial market. Shenton Group has built a strong reputation for taking great buildings in prime locations and adding real value to them."
The appointment follows a period of growth for the group, doubling its office headcount over the past year while continuing to expand its portfolio of freehold Manchester city centre office buildings.
It comprises around 300,000 square feet and is expected to double in size over the coming years. Recent acquisitions include Halifax House on Deansgate, Oxford Court and Manchester Hall.
The group, founded in 1987, is focused on office-led, mixed-use investments across leading Northern cities and also hired Jason Boland as group CFO in January.
Group CEO Colin Shenton added: "Chris brings a deep understanding of the market and the needs of occupiers, making him an excellent addition to the business as we continue to grow."