North West Christmas convo: Ian Waxman of Pad Residential

Christmas is almost upon us and it’s been a well and truly exciting year for the North West business community.

With many of the region’s businesspeople no doubt looking forward to grabbing a glass of wine and putting their feet up, allowing themselves to slip into a post-roast dinner snooze while pretending to listen to the kids, at Bdaily we thought we’d bring you closer to the personalities behind some of the North West’s most exciting enterprises.

Today’s festive catchup is with Ian Waxman, managing director of Manchester-based residential sales and lettings agencyPad Residential.

What did your business achieve in 2015?

We’ve adapted rapidly to an unusual marketplace which has seen unprecedented demand for property rentals and sales in the city centre. For example, we’ve focused increasingly on social media and have launched a serviced apartments division aimed at people seeking short stays in Manchester.

These developments have put us in pole position for an even more active market in 2016.

What were some of the bigger challenges you faced this year?

Limited stock levels at times during a period of unprecedented demand for rentals and sales. There have been so few new-build developments over the past few years but it is changing. It feels almost biblical – either flood or famine.

Does your business have anything exciting planned for 2016?

We’re looking to expand our range of serviced apartments, will be adding to our team and will focus on building relationships with key developers – all of which will help us remain at the forefront of the market and seize opportunities.

We are looking forward to a raft of new developments in Manchester city centre.

Do you find any other North West businesses or their owners inspiring? If so, who?

There are many people with incredible and inspiring stories, such as Fred and Peter Done, the Alliance family, Henry Moser and John Hargreaves. Their achievements are hugely impressive and have come through endeavour and hard work.

Give us one tip for a budding entrepreneur.

Stand your ground but adapt when necessary.

Where’s your favourite village/town/city in the North West, besides where you live?

I used to live in an old cottage in Bowlee/Simister area of north Manchester. It’s a little rural oasis in Manchester.

What would be your dream job?

Apart from my current position, I just love architectural projects and interesting buildings. I guess I would be a passionate architect.

Do you have a favourite Christmas song?

Blue Christmas by Elvis Presley. I’m a fanatical Manchester City supporter, so that’s my excuse.