Brian Klinksiek, Heitman’s director of strategy and research operations, is joining LaSalle Investment Management in Europe.

LaSalle said Klinksiek will join as head of European research and global portfolio strategies to lead the team responsible for forecasts of property markets, capital markets and metro economies across the region.

Klinksiek’s role, which includes a global strategy component, is an expansion of the European research and strategy role previously held by Mahdi Mokrane who left to join Patrizia.

“Additionally, Klinksiek will take on a leading role in helping set LaSalle’s global strategy outlook, relative value assessments and portfolio strategies,” LaSalle said.

Klinksiek joins the $65bn (€55bn) real estate investment manager on 15 September after spending nearly 17 years in various research and strategy leadership roles at Heitman.

He most recently served as director of strategy and research operations, based in Hong Kong. Prior to that, he built and managed a new investment strategy and research capability in Europe for a period of 10 years.

Jeff Jacobson, LaSalle global CEO, said: “I am confident that his wide-ranging experience and impressive track record will enhance our research and strategy platform and offer our clients a unique and sound perspective on European and global investment opportunities.”

Jacques Gordon, global head of research and strategy for LaSalle, said: “Today more than ever, investors seek insights that are both tactical and strategic. LaSalle’s approach is to examine long-term secular and structural themes that can affect specific locations and markets when considering buy/hold/sell decisions.”

Klinksiek, said: “I am honoured to be joining LaSalle at a time when both European and global real estate remains a critical allocation for investors.

”I look forward to building off the impressive foundation and track record LaSalle has established and leveraging my experience to enhance the firm’s investment ideas and capabilities.”

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