Each month we talk to the people responsible for helping make our region thrive and prosper to find out more about their role, hopes and dreams and what makes them tick. This month it’s Matt Long, senior asset manager for Praxis at Brindleyplace – and self-confessed sports nut!

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT

For years, rugby was my life – I played 1st team rugby for Moseley Rugby Club and Birmingham & Solihull Rugby Club (BEES) and then had a stint at captaincy for BEES and leading the England Counties squad. Basically, if there was a muddy pitch and a ball, I was there! Ten years ago, I finally hung up my boots and swapped tackles for tactics, moving into coaching. These days, I coach kids at my local rugby club and even dabble in football coaching – because apparently, you can’t live on scrums alone. The communication and leadership skills I picked up on the pitch have proved invaluable in my current role at Brindleyplace.

IT’S WHAT I DO

I’ve been involved in Brindleyplace since the nineties – back when phones were landlines and the coffee option was just milk and sugar! In 2021, Hines invited me to join as director of placemaking and tenant engagement. Then, after Praxis acquired the majority share in 2023, I became senior asset manager for the estate. My job? Working with tenants old and new, and teaming up with the development team to make sure Brindleyplace stays future ready.

WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE

Watching my kids achieve their academic and sporting goals fills me with pride and I want to see them go on to realise many more. Professionally, I want Brindleyplace to keep thriving and evolving – working with its fantastic community of occupiers to deliver the very best experience.

BIGGEST SUCCESS

Sport, and rugby in particular, runs through generations of my family, so managing the England Counties and Barbarian teams was huge. The highlight? Having my dad join me on the Barbarian tour of Korea and Japan – unforgettable. On the work front, I’ve been involved with some fantastic major development projects in the region’s office market. Basically, I like building things – whether it’s teams or workplaces.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED

That the old adage is true: teamwork really DOES make the dream work. Working with like-minded, hard-working and honest individuals is paramount to optimal productivity and success. Also, never underestimate the power of a good post-match pint!

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM

I love the way Birmingham is always evolving and how it has changed in recent years – younger, vibrant and full of energy. It’s like Birmingham went to the gym and is always working on its fitness regime.

DOWNTIME

Sport, obviously! Watching it, coaching it, and talking about it with my family and fellow fans! If there’s a ball involved, I’m interested.

ANYTHING ELSE TO ADD…

Those who know me will know I’ve already overshared! But at least I haven’t shared any rugby injury stories… yet!