The Life Science space is now seen as a core product when it comes to alternative asset classes and Collen O’Connor, Vice President of Leasing at Biomed Realty for the East Coast and UK markets, is a sounding specialist! Not only is she responsible for 5.9 million square feet on two continents but she has elevated Biomed’s profile by establishing trusting relationships in the real estate, venture capital and science communities. In just 7 years, Colleen went from real estate rookie, financial analyst to heading up leasing for arguably one of the most exciting real estate businesses on the planet - impressive.
Whilst the majority of office workers were told to ‘stay at home’ during lockdown 1, the life science world needed to return to work quickly and safely. Almost 40% of Biomed’s tenants were working on COVID during this time so their ability to continue to operate was mission-critical. The sector needed to adapt (quick time), and it then became the norm to tour spaces suited up with gloves, masks and protective gear.
Listen to the full interview where Andrew Deverell-Smith questions Colleen O’Connor on the most impressive ideas she’s seen tested in the lab, how the sector will evolve and most importantly, whether she’s a Bowie, The Beatles or Britney fan.