Yorkshire ‘shed legend’ begins new advisory role

A Yorkshire commercial property expert is stepping back from leadership duties to focus on client work and strategic projects.

Andrew Gent, founder of Leeds-based property consultancy GV&Co, has stepped down as a director after more than 20 years leading the business.

Known across the sector as one of Yorkshire’s best-known industrial property specialists, Andrew established GV&Co in 2003. 

Under his leadership, the firm has grown from a specialist industrial agency into a multi-disciplinary surveying practice, now employing 18 people.

Andrew said: “Industrial property is in my blood, and I still get the same buzz from agreeing deals today as I did when I first started in the industry 40 years ago.

“I’ve always been firmly focussed on building strong client relationships and securing the best and most suitable occupiers for their properties, to maximise and add value to developments and investments. 

“This will never waver and will remain my priority moving forward.

“GV&Co has always been about the strength of its people and the partnerships we have built with clients over the years. 

“I’m proud to have played a part in that and look forward to continuing to support those relationships now and in the future.

“With a strong and established team in place, GV&Co is in a great position to continue its growth, which makes this the right time for me to step back as a director.”

The move marks the latest stage in the firm’s evolution, with Tom Goode taking on greater responsibility within the agency team. 

He will lead GV&Co’s major industrial agency and development instructions while continuing to support existing clients.

Tom joined the business from Knight Frank six months ago and brings extensive experience advising developers, investors and occupiers across the industrial and logistics sector.

Andrew will remain closely involved with the firm in an advisory capacity, focusing on a number of established client relationships and key instructions.

Paul Mack, director in GV&Co’s agency team, added: “Tom’s appointment represents a natural progression for the business. 

“He has a proven track record, vast experience and is very well-known in the industry, so he is exceptionally well placed to lead our large-scale agency and development work as we continue to grow.

“With clear succession plans in place, strong continuity for clients and an experienced team across the business, GV&Co is well positioned for the future, as we continue to strengthen our services across all disciplines and deliver trusted advice throughout the industrial, logistics and wider commercial property sectors.”

Gavin Ritchie, director at GV&Co, added: “Andrew is quite rightly regarded as one of Yorkshire’s shed legends. 

“His experience, market insight and long-standing relationships have significantly contributed to the success of GV&Co and we’re delighted that he will remain closely involved with both the business and our clients in his new role.”

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