Nigel advises leading owners and occupiers on strategic development, leasing and asset management across the hospitality, leisure and retail sectors in the UK, Europe, North America and the Middle East.
He has built a reputation as a trusted advisor to some of the world’s most respected hospitality groups, with particular expertise in flagship-led international expansion. Nigel has advised D&D London (now Evolv Collection) on their entry into the US market, securing landmark restaurant locations in New York City at Hudson Yards and Columbus Circle.
He has also advised Rhubarb Hospitality Collection on two flagship New York locations at Hudson Yards, including The Peak, which during its operation generated revenues in excess of US$35 million, establishing it as one of the most successful high-altitude restaurant concepts globally.
Nigel acts exclusively for Caprice Holdings on their global partnership and expansion strategy. This includes the international growth of The Ivy and Ivy Asia, alongside the exploration of new markets for Annabel’s, Sexy Fish and Scott’s. He brings a deep understanding of the structural, operational and cultural complexities associated with cross-border expansion.
Clients value Nigel’s long-term perspective, discretion and ability to align real estate strategy with brand, operational and commercial objectives.
James advises leading hospitality, leisure and entertainment operators on real estate strategy, with a particular focus on flagship acquisition, cross-border expansion and complex urban markets.
Before co-founding Gillingham Bell, James built his career at some of London’s most prestigious landlord-focused advisory firms, including Nash Bond, CBRE and BGP, advising many of the capital’s leading owners and developers. This background gives him a rare perspective — a deep understanding of how landlords think, underwrite and make decisions — insight that consistently delivers a strategic advantage to operator clients.
James is widely regarded as a connector within the hospitality real estate market, trusted by both operators and landlords alike for his collaborative approach and ability to align parties around long-term outcomes. Clients value his commercial judgement, market intuition and hands-on involvement throughout the deal lifecycle.
He advises a highly curated group of international brands on their expansion across Europe, North America and APAC, including Velvet Taco, Aqua Restaurant Group,, Black Seed Bagels, KERB Food Hall, Sabre Paris, Alain Ducasse, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer and State of Play.