To start, could you please introduce yourself and share your role at fabric?
I am the Director of Finance at fabric. The Finance function works closely with all other functions within fabric to prepare and maintain the proforma models of the projects. These models are used to determine project viability at the acquisition stage and to then manage the returns projections whilst in the development and construction stage. I work closely with Jordan on raising capital (both debt and equity) for the projects and with the Accounting team to manage cashflows. I also wear the “Integrator” hat working with Jordan on channeling his vision into practice!
How did you find your way into real estate – was it a goal from the start, or did it develop over time?
I always liked the built environment. My parents built a house in 2000 and I got to spend a lot of time on the site and with the architect at a young age, learning about the process. From then on, I wanted to be an architect myself and started developing a passion for design. I focused on technical drawing and art in high school. I discovered at university that a career in design doesn’t translate into freedom of expression and creative control. You’re more likely to be drawing door details for a few years. I pivoted to economics and finance but maintained a real estate major. From my 3rd year at uni I started working full time for a project management firm and then in my final year moved over to an analyst role in commercial brokerage. From there it has been a little circuitous to where I am now, but I’ve gained lots of exposure to different parts of real estate finance and development.
As one of the early Partners at fabric, how do you feel the company has evolved over the years and what values have been important to you in shaping fabric’s team culture?
The culture has been really strong from the beginning. That’s a testament to Jordan’s shaping of the culture. As we’ve grown, each member of the team has added to our culture, making it super unique. Truth is a really important value at fabric. It’s a very open and transparent environment with no one afraid to speak up to either debate something they disagree with or, seek help when something is challenging them. We all get behind each other in a big way.
You have a keen eye for art, photography, and design, which might be unexpected for a Director of Finance. How do you think this creative perspective influences your approach to your role?
There might be a negative influence on my role as I’m always inclined to look at the “slightly nicer” (read: more expensive) version of something! Whether that is a cladding material or furniture in the office.
A simple and direct benefit is being able to see myself inside of a unit plan and how that lays out and whether than might have a positive influence of the valuation of the space.
fabric has a corporate book club…what’s the benefit of this and what’s one of your favourite books that we’ve covered so far?
I have always read fiction for more escapism. Since joining fabric in 2021 we have read quite a few non-fiction business and business adjacent books.
A clear tangible benefit has been a sense of cohesion and alignment amongst the team with how we approach work and life. Things such as clear communication, clarification of expectations, acceptance of healthy and respectful debate, operating with pragmatism.
What sort of activities do you enjoy doing outside of the office?
I love being with my wife & daughters. At the park, coffee shop or whatever activities they have on, particularly my eldest daughter, Harriet who has started really developing a sense of humour. I love film photography – family portraits and street scenes.
Can you tell me which piece of art is your favourite in our office and why?
I love the 2 pieces by Stephen Price that hang in our entrance gallery. They’re really emotive pieces that are at the same time, quite calming. The way they’re hung also draws you into that space. I like how they’re punctuated by the pink details in the bench that was created by Jordan’s brother.
