Workspace bosses brew up new flex roles

Two former leaders of workspace businesses have taken on new roles to help flex office providers expand.  Jamie Hopkins, former chief executive at Workspace Group, has joined flexible workspace provider The Brew to advise on scale-up strategy, optimising business operations, acquiring new assets and financial performance, while Robin Lester, co-founder of managed office operator MetSpace, has joined Frameworks as head of acquisitions.  Lester joins Frameworks to help the business partner with asset owners that want to add a flex dimension to their portfolio. Andrew Clough, chief executive at The Brew, said: “Jamie is an outstanding and respected leader who has shaped the flexible workspace sector in London. His eye for opportunities and his track record of scaling up by focusing on delivering a high-quality product for the customer will be extremely valuable to The Brew as we embark on our London expansion.” Hopkins, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the real estate sector, added: “The horizon for flexible office space is a combination of financial growth with a positive impact on the environment, and with 12 years of experience providing flexible workspace, I believe The Brew is in a strong position to capitalise on new opportunities.” The Brew was set up in 2012 and currently manages four locations in London’s Shoreditch. Frameworks was launched in 2017 by Max Jezierski and Samuel Roberts with the goal of offering managed workspaces with a particular focus on design. Backed by Rob Hamilton, founder of Instant Offices, Frameworks has since opened 11 buildings. “Robin is among the very best dealmakers in the market, with a proven track record and deep understanding of what landlords expect from an operating partner,” said Jezierski. “We knew it was essential to have someone of his calibre spearhead this next phase.” Lester added: “There is an abundance of space in the market with unrealised potential – our operating agreement will be a powerful solution for owners looking to generate and maximise income.” Hopkins stepped down as chief executive of Workspace Group in June 2019 due to “extenuating personal circumstances” after seven years with the business. He is currently non-executive chair at business management consultant Restore and a non-executive director at Allsop. Lester set up MetSpace in 2019. Prior to launching the business he was a central London office agent at Donaldsons, DTZ and Metrus Property Advisors.