Humberstone will be responsible for driving Bell Hammer Real Estate’s next phase of growth.

Previously a partner at Orchard Street Investment Management until the start of 2021, Humberstone played a central role in securing mandates and growing the business, which tripled in size during his time with the firm.

At Bell Hammer he will help forge the company’s next phase of growth, focusing on strategy and investment. Bell Hammer is currently embarking on the delivery of a 2.5m sq ft enlarged development pipeline.

Humberstone’s recruitment follows the recruitment of Rob Howe, the former head of European real estate at Arrow Capital Partners, as head of investments as the firm moves to expand beyond its traditional office remit to also cover logistics. Development manager Colin Hall also joined earlier this year, moving from ESR Europe where he had been head of development management.

Humberstone said: “I have known the Bell Hammer team for many years and have enormous respect for their capabilities and achievements, and am thrilled to be joining the team at this point in the cycle. Bell Hammer has the resources, experience and skill set to capitalise on what I believe will be an exciting period of opportunity in the sector.”

Joel Hawkins, chief executive and founder of Bell Hammer, added: “John’s track record as a principal at several blue-chip real estate companies is exemplary, so we are delighted he has chosen Bell Hammer for his next challenge.

“He has a breadth of experience across the real estate investment and debt markets, which brings an additional perspective to the Bell Hammer team, and we are looking forward to working with him at an exciting time of growth and opportunity for Bell Hammer.’’