Early Beginnings
Richard Smith stands at the forefront of Office Freedom as its esteemed Founder & CEO, with an illustrious real estate career that kicked off in 1986. Before the internet became a cornerstone of business operations, he had already anticipated the need for a service that would connect businesses with flexible workspace solutions. It was during his 7 years as an office leasing specialist where he brokered a (then unheard of) serviced office deal in Mayfair’s Berkeley Square in 1992.
He realised there was a huge gap in the real estate market, i.e., there were no brokers specialising in serviced offices to rent or offering coworking space solutions. His keen eye for opportunity led to the creation of the world's initial flex space brokerage, SOS, transforming the landscape of serviced offices. Now known as Office Freedom, the company shines as the longest-standing aggregator of flexible office spaces, boasting over 15,000 locations worldwide.
Championing Client Success and Industry Growth
Richard's commitment to securing the best terms for clients while fostering a supportive network for flex landlords has been a cornerstone of his success. Office Freedom, under Richard's stewardship, has facilitated offices for over 38,000 clients, ranging from start-ups and SMEs to large corporations. His expertise and vision have not only transformed how businesses approach office space but have also supported the growth of 15,000 flex landlord locations.
Thought Leadership
As a thought leader, he is frequently seen sharing his insights at major corporate real estate events held by CoreNet, Future Offices & WorkTech . He also hosts a podcast about the flexible workplace landscape, where he discusses trends and innovations in workspace solutions. Beyond his professional achievements, Richard is deeply invested in environmental sustainability, playing a key role in CanO Water®. Living between London and Boca Raton, he cherishes spending time with his family, engaging in sports, and following Arsenal FC.
Richard's story is one of vision, dedication, and innovation, inviting us into the evolving world of flexible workspaces and beyond.
Connect with Richard Smith
Looking for an industry expert's insights or interested in a collaboration? Reach out to him on LinkedIn for a direct conversation about the flexible workspace industry and beyond.
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