Philip Bowe Founder of BIV Bowes
Did you always envisage a career in Commercial Property?
I didn’t, but there is a logical route from about 1964! My earliest recollection is of wanting to design motor cars although petrol prices in 1973 made me think it wouldnt be long before we had any motor cars on the road! I first looked at architecture and then moved to property surveying. I left school on a Thursday and started work in Central London the following Monday on the princely wage of £2100 per annum!
What attracted you to your current role?
Quite simply not being stuck in an office from nine to five and getting out and about and meeting people. Over 40 years on I still get a buzz from forming new relationships and working with new clients.
How has the job changed over the past 40 years?
It may be controversial to say but I think the pace of modern life has distilled the old “work hard/play hard” mentality. I fondly remember doing some of my best work in the pub on a Friday afternoon. Happy days! However technology has made an enormous difference with the ease of getting property information greatly enhanced. This is of course a double edged sword as the public can access similar information and the adage of “a little knowledge is a dangerous thing” can make professionals’ lives harder.
What advice would you give to someone looking at a career in Commercial Property?
In the early stages get a job which involves looking at lots of different property and dont get to focussed on one aspect of the sector too soon. Get out and meet as many people as you can and find the aspect of the profession you enjoy which will mean you will get better at it.
What is the most exciting thing you are currently working on?
I am in the early stages with a development for a client who had two very clear ideas for a site. We came up with a third alternative they described as “off the wall” but now look likely to take forward. This is immensely satisfying.
What are your fondest career memories?
Working with people with founts of knowledge gathered over a time period now going back more than 100 years which they were happy to share. People who start as clients and are now friends and also sharing my experience and knowledge with the younger generations entering the industry.
What are your remaining career aspirations?
To recruit the right person to work with me and possibly take the business over…but not yet!
What are your favourite Commercial Property developments?
I really had to think about this one. Not strictly commercial, but I still think the main part of Newcastle Civic Centre is an example of quality 1960s architecture. The new developments on Bath Lane which complement the City Centre developments are examples of 21st Century architecture that will stretch the City Centre in a new direction.
What is the best place to live in the region and why?
Within the North East we are spoilt for choice. Wherever one is, one can be 20-30 minutes from good shopping, countryside and the coast allied to a terrific rail link to London. A very special area to work and live. How do you relax?
I am President of the Ponteland Lions and enjoy their fundraising activities. I also enjoy country walks with my girlfriend and the atmosphere of a good pub, an institution we must fight to keep.
After multiple health scares in 2022 my New Years Resolution is simply to be happy and make other people happy.
