Avison Young recruits new Director of ESG UK and Europe

Drawing on over 16 years of experience in the energy and sustainability sector with a strong track record of driving business growth across global markets, Wesley will lead Avison Young’s UK and European ESG and sustainability consultancy services, providing strategic advice to real estate investors, lenders, and occupiers in areas of sustainable investment, ESG strategy, risk, and resiliency.

Joining from JLL, Wesley was most recently Senior Director within the Energy & Sustainability Solutions team, responsible for the EMEA region. Previously, he was Senior Director at public sector consultancy Guidehouse, and Managing Director of Thomson International, a boutique ESG sustainability consulting firm.

Wesley will be working closely with Jon Gibson, Principal and Global Director of ESG, to increase cross-border synergies. His appointment builds on the company’s strengthening of global strategies and programs, including investment and commitments around climate change, DEI and social impact, such as aligning its strategy to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and becoming members of the World Economic Forum.

Wesley Thomson said: “The pressure on real estate to become a frontrunner of ESG is mounting – and rightly so. It’s an exciting time to join Avison Young and work alongside the existing teams and experts to transform the way the industry does business, to help clients achieve their goals and future-proof their business strategies, mitigate risk and realize the benefits of a transition to a zero-carbon future.”

Jon Gibson, Avison Young, commented: “ESG and sustainability practices remain top-of-mind for owners, occupiers and employees. I am proud of the work we do on behalf of our clients to improve the sustainability and resilience of businesses, economies, and communities. It is energizing to see the investment Avison Young is making into this area and I look forward to working with Wesley to further strengthen our ESG consultancy in the UK and Europe.”

Steve Cresswell, European Finance & Operations Director at Avison Young, commented: “Wesley’s appointment underlines our desire to continue to build and deliver a competitive offer for clients in this crucially important area.”