Fiera Real Estate appoints Ben Coles as chairman

Fiera Real Estate, the European real estate division of Fiera Capital, has appointed Ben Coles as its new Chairman. 

Ben Coles

He takes over from Ray Palmer, who founded Palmer Capital (which became Fiera Real Estate's European arm) and will now serve as a non-executive board member. This leadership change signals the next phase of Fiera Real Estate's growth across the UK and Europe.
Palmer's leadership saw significant growth for the platform, utilising a unique operating partner model with stakes in nine specialist property companies. He will continue to contribute to the firm's strategy in his new role.
Ben Coles brings over 25 years of real estate experience, including 15 years as CEO of Wrenbridge, a Fiera Real Estate operating partner. Under his guidance, Wrenbridge became a leading developer and investor, completing over 10 million sq ft of projects valued at more than £4.5 billion. Coles is stepping down as Wrenbridge CEO, with the existing senior management team taking over daily operations.
This appointment coincides with a period of strong growth for Fiera Real Estate. Recent developments include a new industrial development joint venture with Universities Superannuation Scheme in January, deploying over €400 million in private debt across the UK and Europe in the last two years, and managing over 17,500 beds in its living portfolio.
Ben Coles, chairman of Fiera Real Estate, said: “It is an honour to take on this role and build on the legacy created by Ray. Fiera Real Estate has developed a distinctive market proposition, underpinned by deep sector specialisation and a differentiated operating partner model that delivers for investors. There is real potential to expand the platform by increasing assets under management, broadening our geographic footprint, and deepening relationships with global capital partners. The business is positioned to capture large and complex transactions, while maintaining the agility that has defined its success to date.”
Charles Allen, Head of European Real Estate, Fiera Real Estate, added: “Ben’s appointment comes at an important point in our growth trajectory as we continue to scale the business and execute our high-conviction, pan-European strategy.  With the depth of experience across our Board, executive team and operating partners, we are extremely well equipped for long-term success.”