Q&A: Five minutes with John Morley, founder & chief executive of Legacie Developments

How did you join the property industry?

I had always been interested in the built environment so enrolled on a quantity surveying course at Liverpool John Moores University after leaving school. It was important for me to stay in Liverpool as I knew I wanted to make an impact on the city’s wonderful existing skyline.

What does your job entail?

My main role is to ensure the business continues to deliver bold, transformative projects that reshape cities and foster a strong sense of place. I lead the executive board and wider team to execute this. I oversee the work of our in-house programmes such as the Second Chance Scheme, which provides meaningful employment opportunities for ex-offenders.

What do you like most about the industry?

The fact that, every single day, all those who work in the built environment are having an impact on the identity of our cities and regions. We still talk about and admire Tudor buildings, and what we are doing is adding to these world-renowned skylines.

And what do you dislike most about it?

The industry’s reputation among those who don’t realise the impact it has on everyday life. As a sector, we need to work harder to make those who see development as a hindrance realise the benefits we are providing.

What is your favourite building?

I love the Crown Building in New York, a beaux-arts skyscraper built in 1921 and now home to the Aman Hotel. It embodies the splendour of America’s Gilded Age, displaying timeless elegance, sophistication and dynamism.

Who in property has inspired you?

When I first set up Legacie, I was mentored by Richard Webster – a large private landlord who gave me invaluable advice on the best ways to invest in being a landlord. His guidance has helped me shape what Legacie is today.

If you had not gone into property, what would you be doing?

I am renowned for my entrepreneurial drive and am grateful to have learned that from my dad. He ran his own scaffolding business and I always looked up to him. If I hadn’t gone down the quantity surveying route, I think I’d be working alongside him now – but he’d make sure he was still the boss.

What would you change about the industry?

Closer regulation of the way Section 106 contributions are distributed and spent. An estimated £8bn of developer contributions in England and Wales goes unspent. This should not be the case. If I had it my way, there’d be a clearer process for getting these funds to the places and communities that need them most.

What challenges have you overcome?

It is no secret that the regeneration and development sector in Liverpool has suffered in recent years. Navigating a business through this period was tricky, but I think we’re in a better place now. I meet with investors and they have an appetite to spend their money here and we have many talented people delivering major schemes that will make an impact for generations to come.

What are you most proud of in your career?

Setting up the Legacie Foundation, our fundraising and social impact initiative dedicated to improving the lives of local people and communities. To date we’ve raised over £1m – these funds support three local charities that care for and empower young people and adults.

What advice would you give someone starting a career in the property industry?

Don’t be afraid to challenge your critics. You are always going to face a degree of negative feedback, especially working in our sector. Sometimes you have to think outside the box in order to make a difference. Be the change you want to see.