European independent real estate investment firm Blackbrook Capital has hired Olivier Lebrun as portfolio & ESG manager.
In his pan-European role, Lebrun will be responsible for all aspects of property and build-to-suit project management, as well as working closely with the management in developing and driving forward Blackbrook’s sustainability strategies across its portfolio.
As part of this, Blackbrook will be looking to work with tenants to improve energy efficiency and engage ESG audits of existing properties to create a fully ESG optimised portfolio. Lebrun will be based out of the firm’s expanding Luxembourg office led by Alex Macri, who is responsible for Blackbrook’s fund management and Luxembourg operations.
Arvi Luoma, co-founder & CEO of Blackbrook, said: 'An ESG optimised portfolio is attractive to every party involved, but most importantly, it is the right thing to do for the planet.
'Since we launched the business, we have looked for opportunities where we can work with tenants to help grow their business while also creating long-term value through transitioning to a greener and more environmentally sustainable future.
'We are confident that Olivier’s drive and experience will prove a real asset to both the firm and our tenants.'
Blackbrook’s portfolio ESG initiatives aim to materially reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint around portfolio assets and ensure tenants benefit from greener operations. Currently, more than 70% of Blackbrook’s portfolio is Green certified, and the aim is to have a portfolio that is 100% ESG optimised.
Lebrun was previously head of asset services at Cushman & Wakefield Luxembourg. Before that, he worked at JLL in property management and facility management for Fidelity International. He is a BREEAM In-Use trained auditor.
Said Lebrun: 'I’m excited to join a young business that has invested across hugely interesting and attractive assets.
'The real estate industry has made steps towards greener credentials, and some properties in the portfolio certainly display this, but there is substantial work to do across the industry to create a greener footprint. I’m looking forward to getting started and working closely with the team to realise the firm’s ESG vision.'
