In Conversation with Business Leader: Bruntwood and Bruntwood SciTech CEO Chris Oglesby

In a recent podcast episode with Business Leader, Chris Oglesby, CEO of Bruntwood and Bruntwood SciTech, shares his unique perspective on the commercial property landscape and his journey as a leader. The conversation offers a deep dive into the strategies that have propelled Bruntwood and Bruntwood SciTech to the forefront of the UK’s office, lab, city and town centre regeneration, as well as sharing personal stories on who and what inspires him, and what his ambitions are for 2025,, making it a must-listen!

A Vision for the Future of Commercial Property

Chris’s insights into what the UK economy needs to grow and evolve, highlight the importance of adapting to change and seizing opportunities in emerging sectors. He underscores the shift from traditional financial services towards technology and innovation, particularly in high growth regional cities like Manchester. 

This shift has been central to Bruntwood and Bruntwood SciTech’s business strategies, which focuses on creating flexible, high-quality workspaces tailored to the needs of modern businesses. His approach reflects a deep understanding of market dynamics, emphasising the need for properties that not only meet current demands but also anticipate future trends.

Leadership Rooted in Family and Values

Chris’s journey as CEO is deeply influenced by his father, Michael Oglesby, who founded Bruntwood in 1976. The company’s growth from converting old factories into offices to developing large-scale innovation hubs is a testament to the strong foundation laid by Michael and the values he instilled in Chris. One of the key takeaways from the podcast is the importance of maintaining a value-driven approach to leadership. Chris shares how his father's meritocratic ethos and his own experiences in the family business have shaped his leadership style, which is characterised by a focus on inclusivity, trust, and long-term vision.

Innovation and Adaptability: Keys to Success

The success of Bruntwood and Bruntwood SciTech is also rooted in Chris’s ability to innovate and adapt. The company was among the first to recognise the need for flexible office spaces in the early 90s, a move that set the business apart from competitors. This forward-thinking approach is evident in Bruntwood and Bruntwood SciTech’s current projects, which include the development of science and tech campuses and innovation hubs designed to foster collaboration and innovation, and the investment into the successful regeneration of town centres.

The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Regeneration

Chris also touches on the critical role of public-private partnerships and ecosystems in successful urban regeneration. Drawing from the business’ extensive experience in Manchester, he explains how collaboration between the private sector and local authorities can drive meaningful change in cities and towns. This partnership approach has been key to the companies’ ability to deliver projects that not only meet commercial needs but also contribute to the broader economic and social development of the regions they operate in.

Chris’s conversation with Business Leader is packed with insights that go beyond commercial real estate, offering valuable lessons in leadership, innovation and the importance of staying true to your values. To dive deeper into these topics and hear Chris’s thoughts, listen to the full podcast episode here.