Through extensive knowledge of the investment and development lifecycle, we provide an integrated asset manager and servicer platform, with a focus on investment management, planning and development management, rent management, asset utilisation and operations, complex transactions and real asset capital markets.
We are a group of multi-sector professionals focused on value-add performance in real assets.
Oliver is the CEO and Managing Partner of the Portman Group, he oversees all Investment activity, and leads the strategic direction of the business. Oliver started his career training within citizenM hotel's Investment & Development team in the Netherlands, before joining a boutique Capital Markets team in London, where he focussed on complex transactions, operational real estate, and mixed-use development. Since relocating to Portugal, Oliver has focused on driving investment activity into Portugal's key markets, drawing on a global network of investors and professional teams that he has fostered over his career.
Ben is the Chief Operating Officer and a Partner of the Portman Group. He joined the business in early 2022 having spent the previous 5 years in London leading a cross-functional team within a high-growth tech enterprise. He currently sits as an external advisor for another London-based technology company. His experience growing and embedding teams within technical and HNW environments gives the Portman Group of companies their operational edge.
Oliver leads the residential and agency function within the Portman Group. He champions a deep understanding of customers, consumers and businesses, and advises clients on how to get the most out of their real estate aspirations. Oliver prioritises building lasting relationships that allow him to become a deeply integrated property partner for his clients. Prior to joining Portman, Oliver spent 6 years working in various roles in London, most notably at a leading international design firm.
Under new management, the Portman group of companies have been expanding. Since 2020, Portman has opened two new divisions in PortmanLX and Portman Projects, and has created an investment vehicle in Portman Capital.
These companies, along with Portman Properties, expand the group's service offerings and geographical areas of operation to encompass all aspects of real estate investment, development and brokering across the Algarve, Lisbon and the United Kingdom.
Against the backdrop of Portugal's political unrest in 2023, marked by the dissolution of the golden visa and NHR schemes and the Prime Minister's imminent departure amidst corruption allegations, such turbulence has often paved the way for strategic, long-term investment opportunities.
Portugal's notable resilience to political volatility and its proclivity for investor complexity position it uniquely. If the recent political trends are to continue, distressed asset operators eye a favourable 2024, leveraging this political uncertainty for the advantages they have historically provided to those equipped to navigate them.
A key distinction we've observed in Portugal, compared to other markets we operate in, lies in its bureaucratically complex regulatory system. The quest for proficient professional teams—bankers, lawyers, and accountants—adept at navigating these complex waters while maintaining the high service standards we expect from markets like London, poses significant challenges. Yet, those who excel in this area can often surpass larger, more established international competitors.
Our success in winning pitches against larger rivals stems from our ability to simplify and demystify real assets in Portugal, showcasing the effectiveness of navigating the intricacies of the local landscape.
In 2023, Portugal achieved a record-high in renewable energy production, contributing 61% to its electricity consumption. Notably, wind and hydropower supplied 25% and 23%, while solar and biomass added 7% and 6%. REN reported a 70% YoY growth in hydropower and a 43% increase in solar production. Non-renewable sources hit a historic low at 19%. Natural gas consumption, notably in electricity production, dropped 21%. Sines LNG terminal supplied 95% of gas, mainly from Nigeria and the U.S. December saw renewables cover 73% of energy needs, while gas consumption declined by 11.5%.
Portugal's continued drive for sustainability increasingly contributes to its investment attractiveness for ESG conscious operators.
In 2023, Portugal attracted a record 248 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects, marking a 24% increase from 2021. Portugal rose to the 6th position in Europe for FDI attractiveness according to the EY Attractiveness Survey. The upward trajectory in FDI is attributed to institutional quality, simplified logistics, internet availability, green energy, and workforce education. Investors express confidence, with 73% of those surveyed intending to invest in Portugal.
The EY Attractiveness Survey emphasises Portugal's rising appeal in the global investment landscape.
