Paul Rickard

Background

About Paul Rickard

As a CEO, Paul builds and leads organisations that deliver growth, resilience, and impact. He has over 25 years’ experience across real estate development, investment, and finance — in the UK, Europe, and internationally. His career spans a full spectrum of experience including development, funding, public/private partnerships, turnaround situations, and entrepreneurial growth. As Chief Executive of Pocket Living, he is diversifying through growth including the launch of a new living class, has restructured the business, strengthened its balance sheet, secured major inward investment, and positioned the company as a national voice for SME developers — influencing policy and shaping debate at the highest levels of government. Previously as CFO, he executed over £4bn of funding and investment transactions, built investor confidence, and professionalised organisation’s governance and risk framework — increasing resilience and accelerating returns. Paul has worked on all sides of real estate including as adviser, board member, executive, and Chair, giving a unique and holistic view. He has led teams of 150+, managed balance sheets of up to £4bn, and raised over £5bn of debt and equity funding across multiple structures. Hi leadership style combines commercial acumen, analytical rigour, and a focus on culture, inclusion, and delivering high-performing teams. He thrives leading purpose-driven, high-growth organisations combining strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and innovation to deliver lasting value for shareholders, partners, and communities.