In this insightful and energising episode of The Facilities Management Exchange, we dive into the heart of commercial property and workplace culture with two highly respected industry professionals whose careers have been built on work ethic, people-first thinking, and long-term vision.

Episode #7 – Discovering Property and Culture – brings together Daniel Major and Colin Becker for a powerful conversation that explores not only how the property industry has evolved, but how mindset, principles and culture ultimately determine success.

Daniel Major, a Chartered Surveyor with over 20 years’ experience delivering property management services across funds, propco, corporate and boutique clients, shares how he “knew from the age of 15” that he was destined for property. From managing trophy office buildings and prime high street assets to acting as a key client manager across complex UK portfolios, Daniel reflects on the foundations that shaped his career — structure, discipline, accountability, and the work ethic instilled in him by his parents.

His message is simple and uncompromising:
“You can’t achieve a positive outcome if you’re not putting a shift in.”

For aspiring surveyors and young professionals, his advice is equally direct:
“If you put a shift in, you will get the result you want.”

Colin Becker brings 30 years of Central London commercial real estate experience to the table, having transacted with some of the industry’s most recognised names including Great Portland Estates, British Land, Derwent London, Howard De Walden Estates, and many more. With deep expertise in lease advisory, capital markets, asset appraisal, negotiations and strategic repositioning, Colin’s perspective is grounded in experience — but driven by people.

As he puts it: “People are my passion.”

Having spent three decades advising on high-profile assets, Colin explains why understanding people — not just property — is what truly drives performance. From playing the long game early in his career (including a year unpaid at Metrus) to building what he describes as a culture that feels different on a Sunday night, his reflections on influence, environment and leadership are both candid and thought-provoking.

Together, Daniel and Colin explore the evolution of the property sector — from landlord-centric models to community-driven spaces, from tenants to “clients”, and from rigid structures to agile leasing strategies. They discuss the return-to-office debate, generational shifts in the workplace, the growing role of technology and AI, and why first impressions in buildings still matter more than ever.

Culture becomes a central theme throughout the episode:

“We’re a product of the influences that surround us.”
“The culture drives the performance of a business.”

Colin shares powerful reflections on mentorship, education, and why time is our greatest commodity, while Daniel discusses sustainability, proactive asset management and the importance of adapting your approach because “every building is different.”

This episode is packed with perspective, energy and practical wisdom, including:

• Daniel’s early certainty about a career in property — and the family influence that shaped his work ethic
• Why systems and structure are fundamental in property management
• The shift from acting solely for landlords to serving communities and clients
• Colin’s 30-year journey in Central London real estate
• The value of experience for young professionals — beyond just a laptop
• Playing the long game in an industry obsessed with speed
• Why culture defines how you feel on a Sunday night
• The cyclical nature of the property market
• The return-to-office conversation and what it means for future surveyors
• Technology, efficiency and “getting on the train”