JLL appoints new Head of Midlands

Global property advisor JLL has appointed a new Head of Midlands to lead its Birmingham office and oversee operations across the wider region.

Rachel Leung will take over the role from Stuart Smith, who has led the Midlands arm of the business since 2022.

During his time in post, Stuart has overseen JLL’s activity across the Midlands, strengthening the firm’s profile across multiple service lines. He will now move into a new position as head of EMEA industrial and logistics lender services.

Rachel joined JLL in 2022 as a Director in the Birmingham project management team. She 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.

The appointment comes as JLL continues to invest in its Midlands office, which provides expertise in Capital Markets, Office Agency, Industrial and Logistics, Valuation, Rating, Building Surveying, Project Management, Sustainability, Property Management and Infrastructure. The Birmingham hub remains central to JLL’s regional network, supporting the growth and development of towns and cities across the region.

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.”

Simon Peacock, Head of Regions at JLL, said: “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.”