Graham Bates is a senior specialist in the Build-to-Rent and Living Sector, with over 30 years’ experience across advisory, investment, and operational leadership in residential real estate. He co-founded the UK’s first institutional third-party operator for rental communities, helping to establish professional operating standards within the emerging UK rental sector.

He is also Co-founder and CEO of Fika Interiors, a best-in-class spatial design and furniture supply specialist that has delivered solutions for some of the largest Build-to-Rent projects in the UK, working with leading developers, investors, and operators to optimise layouts, operational efficiency, and resident experience. Fika has designed and built a 22 sqm model studio offsite, now forming the mainstay of one of Spain’s leading Flex Living platforms, and is providing similar solutions for Valad. The development model enables the creation of the perfect living environment for residents.

Graham has played a key strategic role in the founding and development of one of Spain’s foremost Flex Living platforms, currently operating around 1,300 units with a further pipeline approaching 3,000. He provides advice across brand development, design, interiors, marketing strategy, lease-up and operational performance.

Bringing a combination of strategic oversight, operational expertise, and an extensive industry network, Graham is working with Valad to help structure a scalable platform, aligning operational delivery with resident-focused outcomes