In profile, Knight Frank’s head of industrial Eugene Evgenikos

Eugene Evgenikos is Knight Frank’s national director of industrial property.  He tells Property Observer he is seeing a lot more interest from offshore investors. He would invest a spare $750,000 in the south Sydney industrial market.

How long have you been in the industry?

Twelve years.

What’s happening in the area you specialise in?

We are seeing increased levels offshore investor activity coupled with further concentration of ownership of industrial property with landowners.

Describe the most interesting property you have sold.

A 27,000-square-metre property that was the last holding of the original ACI Glass Factory in Waterloo (ACI merged with Corning Glass Works of USA to form Crown Corning Limited in 1972, now called Crown Commercial). It was always an exciting facility to inspect. Unfortunately the facility was demolished to make way for a bulky goods warehouse.

What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?

Passion, commitment, enjoyment, dedication.

What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?

Firstly the people. Meeting successful and self-made individuals has been amazing. Many of these people have influenced me, and I would like to think I have been able to influence (reciprocate) or add to their success.   There is no rule book or manual in property, but you do need the ability and scope to think laterally and creatively.

Where would you invest a spare $750,000?

In the south Sydney industrial market. This is one of the most "bulletproof markets", but like any market, you need to understand what the drivers are.

Which football team do you support?

Sydney FC, Parramatta Eels, Waratahs, Sydney Swans.

What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?

I am a devoted Blackberry user going against the convention of using iPhones. I am lost without it.

How do you use social media?

More so to keep in contact with overseas friends and relatives, but I’m starting to use social media professionally.