The same focus, a stronger platform and new opportunities at EDC Erhverv Poul Erik Bech
InvestorFokus spoke to Christian Metellus about the move, the collaboration with JLL and the opportunities at Denmark’s largest estate agency. Christian Metellus is 31 years old and already has 12 years’ experience in the commercial property sector. He began his career with Mikkel Søby, who also joined from Engel & Völkers Commercial Denmark and is now director of EDC Erhverv Poul Erik Bech Copenhagen. In addition, Christian Metellus spent just under six years at Cushman & Wakefield RED, where he worked in valuation and capital markets.
- How has your first period at EDC Erhverv Poul Erik Bech been?
“It’s been a smooth and very professional transition. We come from a smaller set-up, where we were naturally closely involved in many of the practical tasks ourselves. At EDC Erhverv, there’s a strong organisational structure supporting the business – with marketing, HR, IT, administration, valuation, research and project sales – and that frees up time for what matters most: the clients and the specific deals.”
“What has particularly impressed me is the quality and experience within the organisation. There are many talented colleagues with in-depth market knowledge and strong relationships. For me, it’s a sign of a healthy organisation that people stay for the long term and take responsibility for clients, culture and professional standards.”
- How do the former Engel & Völkers Commercial team and EDC Erhverv complement each other?
“We bring experience in capital markets, international transactions and lettings. This fits well with EDC Erhverv’s platform and with the international collaboration with JLL, which is one of the world’s largest property agencies. Together, we can further strengthen this international collaboration.”
“My own focus remains on large-scale residential letting properties and development projects, primarily in Copenhagen and the surrounding area. Here, the combination of local market knowledge, national distribution, research and access to international investors can create value for both sellers and buyers.”
- What in particular has been confirmed for you following the transition?
“I have been reaffirmed in the value of being part of a larger platform. There is more market data, more specialists and a broader network of contacts within the market. This means we can put together the right team for each individual case – whether it’s an investment property in Copenhagen, a major portfolio deal or a development project in Aarhus.”
“It is particularly beneficial that valuation, research, project sales and lettings can work closely alongside Capital Markets. This enables better preparation, more precise market dialogue and a stronger basis for decision-making for our clients.”
- What do you see as the greatest strength of the EDC Erhverv platform?
“I’ve particularly noticed the culture and the depth of professional expertise. EDC Erhverv is a large organisation, but at the same time there’s a pragmatic and commercial approach to tackling tasks. Many colleagues have been in the market for many years, and that history and network are invaluable – especially when combined with new ideas, data and a more international approach.”
“The project departments are also a clear strength. In Capital Markets, we often see cases where advice is needed well before the actual sales process begins. Here, EDC Erhverv can advise on the project’s design, rent levels, demand, divestment, letting and the final investment case. This provides a more comprehensive advisory service and makes it possible to put together the right team from the outset.”