UK – John Forbes, a partner at PwC, is to leave the firm on 1 July after more than 25 years to set up his own consulting business.

Forbes is currently a partner in the London office of PwC, where he advises real estate investment managers on funds, segregated accounts and club deals.

His background revolves around tax issues, but he now also advises on a range of regulatory, governance and operational matters for funds and similar vehicles.

Prior to taking on an advisory role at PwC, Forbes led the firm's real estate industry practice across all lines of service in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

He said: "Changes in investor sentiment and in the regulatory environment have created significant demand for consulting services.

"This provides me with a unique opportunity to fulfil my ambition of establishing my own business that leverages my sector and subject matter experience and expertise."

Forbes went on to say that, as the real estate investment management industry changed over the next decade, he wanted to play an "active role at the centre of events".

Forbes is also a member of the Investment Property Forum working party on Solvency II.