Leung takes over as JLL’s Midlands head

Replacing Stuart Smith, who has led the regional arm of the global consultancy powerhouse since 2022, Rachel Leung moves up from director level in project management.

Smith will now move into a new position as head of EMEA industrial and logistics lender services at JLL.

Since joining the firm in 2022, Leung has delivered projects across the residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use sectors, and also has experience working on heritage and regeneration schemes.

Her career spans the private, public and third sectors, and she has developed a strong track record in building client relationships and delivering complex programmes.

JLL’s Midlands office provides expertise in capital markets, office agency, industrial & logistics, valuation, rating, building surveying, project management, sustainability, property management and infrastructure. The firm operates from Birmingham and Nottingham.

Rachel Leung, head of Midlands at JLL, said: “Stuart has laid a strong foundation over the past three years and I’m excited to continue the progress he has made.

“Real estate and infrastructure are central to the success of our region, and across the Midlands our teams are involved in projects that are creating valuable opportunities for growth. I look forward to working with colleagues and clients to help deliver developments that support the future of our towns and cities.”

The news follows another big change in the senior ranks of JLL’s UK business, with Leeds office agency stalwart and former regional head Jeff Pearey announcing his retirement in August.

Simon Peacock, head of regions at JLL, said of the Midlands change: “I am confident that Rachel will build on the strong momentum Stuart has created in leading and growing our Midlands business.

“She brings passion, extensive experience and a proven track record of delivering complex schemes. Her appointment reflects both our commitment to the Midlands and our focus on developing our people.”