A Brief Encounter with... James Econs

Property Consultant for Damac Properties

Damac Properties are the largest private real estate developers in Middle East offering all kinds of freehold and investment property for sale in Dubai, Egypt, Saudi Arabi and more.

 

 

 

Q: What would you consider you biggest achievement in your career to date?
A: Probably the work I am doing on the US market at the moment.  I feel there's a lot of potential over there. Also, organising a promo event for Damac’s Signature Residences in Dubai; we're hoping to see a few US sports stars there.

 

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I really enjoy the travelling aspect, the variety and the excitement of getting a deal through, more work ... more returns.

 

Q: What do you least like about your job?
A: The communications can sometimes be difficult because of the time difference, other than that, just computers breaking down!

 

Q: Which is more important: what you know or who you know?

A: Who you know is more important, but you can never know enough.

 

Q: What is your favourite holiday destination and why?
A: Austria because I love winter sports. I drove there at the beginning of this year and it was an amazing drive with beautiful scenery all the way... not to mention the Autobahn!

 

Q: Describe how you spend a typical weekend off
A: I love to go surfing in Cornwall when I can get the chance.

 

Q: What made you want to get into the development industry?
A: Money and the potential property had to offer. Fine tuning the art of selling too.

 

Q: Who is your idol?
A: My dad - the most generous man I have ever met.

 

Q: What's your favourite food?
A: Cucumber with hoummus and just salad in general - I like to keep it simple.

 

Q: Hobbies?
A: Water sports, playing guitar and bass.

 

Q: What is more important, work or play?
A: Play definitely.

 

Q: What was the last book you read?
A: Hokkaido Highway Blues by Will Ferguson – it's a travelogue of his hitch-hiking the length of Japan; following the cherry blossom and drinking too much Sake.

 

Q: What do you feel your company’s unique selling point is?
A: The construction of Damac properties – they aren't just luxury on the surface.

 

Q: Where do you feel your company is placed on the current market?
A: We're growing at an impressive rate and will continue to do so I'm sure. Definitely at the high-end – luxury, luxury, luxury!

 

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
A: In the United States running a music venue and rehearsal rooms. I would love to have a magazine in my portfolio too - we shall see.

 

Q: What are your goals and aspirations?
A: My goal is to run and own a company with my best friends. Trust is essential.

 

Q: What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A: A chiropractor - inspiration from my dad again.

 

Q: What subjects did you most enjoy at school?
A: All sports, art and anything creative.

 

Q: What has been your biggest regret?
A: Missing opportunities is the worst! But I try not to dwell on it for too long.

 

Q: What would you like to be remembered by?
A: Donating to charities.

 

Q: What guests would you invite to a dinner party?
A: Musicians. I'd love to grill some of them about life on tour and in the studio.

 

Q: What do you think of reality TV shows like the Apprentice?
A: I don't like to watch too much TV, I prefer working towards being a success rather than watching others doing it!