COFFEE BREAK with… Paul Reilly, Director – Healthcare
Coffee Break with… is a Christie & Co series showcasing the brilliance, expertise, and diversity of our network of over 200 employees.
When did you join Christie & Co?
January 2010.
Where were you when you accepted your role at Christie & Co?
I was at home in Exmouth, Devon.
What was your first job?
Commis Chef working in Bonn, West Germany, in 1976.
In a couple of sentences, can you tell us a bit about your job at Christie & Co?
I have been working in the business property market for over 35 years, specialising in both healthcare, licensed property sales, and acquisitions as a senior member of the team in Birmingham. I enjoy the deals, but also mentoring the younger new agents coming into the business.
What’s your favourite thing about Christie & Co?
Having a great team mentality backed up by the best property professional team in the UK.
What’s been the biggest challenge of your career so far?
I have had to live with a disability for much of my life with many operations on my spine but, despite this, I always try to work with a positive mental attitude and help others first.
How has the industry changed since you started at Christie & Co?
I believe it has. As the years have moved on, there has been more legislation that has been passed down from The Government to us as business brokers. We are now policing the industry with Anti-Money Laundering legislation and the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements for all properties. The Covid pandemic has certainly changed the public’s perception of health and social care; it is still one of the poorest industries for staff pay despite the tireless work that goes on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
It’s now time for The Government to step in and recognise that financially. In this profession we hear about how all the money is going to the NHS but, in actuality, very little filters down to the care home sector. I remember standing in the street on a Thursday night clapping for our carers, however, I still believe The Government should be ashamed of the lack of funding still going on.
Who in your industry do you feel most inspired by?
Symmr Sandhu CEO at Dignus Group – Healthcare.
Tell us a bit about your life outside work – what are your hobbies?
My passion is food sourcing and preparing all sorts of food for friends and family - I cook every evening. My other passion is wild swimming. Be it in the sea, lakes or rivers, I’m one of those nutcases that swims all year round without a wet suit - good for the mind and body.
What’s your hometown? Where do you live now?
I grew up in Plymouth but moved away when I was 18. I have lived in various places in the UK but also in Germany. I currently live in Kenilworth, Warwickshire.
Where’s the best place you’ve been on holiday?
Italy.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Politicians unable to answer questions straight.
If you could live and work in any city, where would you go?
Barcelona.
What would be your desert island meal?
Mussels followed by fresh sea bass or John Dory, then summer pudding.
What’s your favourite film?
The Shawshank Redemption.
What is your favourite movie quote?
‘Go ahead, make my day’ – Clint Eastwood, Sudden Impact.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
Retire to a warmer climate.
What is your biggest fear?
Losing close family and friends.
What news source do you read every day?
The Times.
What’s your social media platform of choice?
LinkedIn.
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