Henderson Global Investors has hired Johan Åström as Head of Property, Sweden. Åström who will be based in Stockholm, will report to David Turner, Director of Property, based in Henderson's London office.
The hire represents Henderson Property's business strategy to significantly grow its assets under management in the Nordic region and to build on the momentum created by the recent acquisition of Tuna Park shopping center in Eskilstuna, Sweden.
Åström has an extensive background in retail asset management and development in Sweden. Prior to joining Henderson, Åström was working for Nordic Real Estate Partners as the asset manager of a highly successful retail fund in Sweden.
Prior to that role, Åström was with Jones Lang LaSalle, Heron International and Cushman & Wakefield as retail asset manager and developer. Åström started his career with the Swedish based property advisor Arsenalen in 1998. He is a graduate of Sweden's Royal Institute of Technology.
David Turner, Director of Property, said: "There is considerable investor appetite for Sweden and the wider Nordic region and the opening of the Stockholm office will provide the necessary springboard to help grow our business and meet our investor requirements. The retail sector will remain our core focus and the experience and expertise that Johan brings significantly strengthens our capabilities in the region."
Johan Åström, Head of Property, Sweden, added: "The characteristics of the Nordic real estate market make the region an attractive investment opportunity for 2012 and beyond. I am excited by the opportunity to join such a highly regarded business and look forward to building upon this reputation across the Nordic market."
Stefan Wundrak, Director of Research, Property, commented: "Due to impressive economic growth and solid economic management Sweden is currently among the most sought after property investment geographies in Europe. The wider economic slowdown in Europe will mean that rental growth will pause in Sweden in 2012, but the market is well positioned to again lead the second round of the recovery from 2013 onwards.
"Despite its small size in terms of population Sweden is among Europe's most transparent and liquid investment markets in the European property investment arena."
Source: Henderson Global Investors
