Global real estate adviser CBRE has appointed Raj Somchand as head of European investment banking. Somchand will take up the role in early 2026.
Somchand most recently worked for five years at JLL, where he held the position of head of M&A and equity advisory. Prior to JLL, he co-founded Leon Partners, which was later acquired by HFF and then JLL. Somchand's career also includes eight years at Bank of America Merrill Lynch and five at Deloitte.
CBRE described Somchand's role as "pivotal", saying he will spearhead its integrated real estate investment banking services across Europe. CBRE said the main focus will be large, complex transactions, cross border deals and significant platform sales.
The appointment underlines a focus on finance and investment banking experience as CBRE fills senior roles. In June, it appointed Rishi Bhuchar as chief executive of its United Kingdom and Ireland advisory business.
Bhuchar is an investment banker who had served as co-head of the global real estate group at Jefferies since 2019.
Marco Hekman, chairman, advisory services, Continental Europe and UK & Ireland, CBRE, said in a statement: “We’re excited to have Raj on board. His profound knowledge and proven track record in advising clients on complex and transformative real estate transactions will be a significant asset to our business. Raj's leadership will enhance our already robust offering in this space, allowing us to continue to deliver exceptional service to both new and existing clients.”