Managing Director

David Campbell

I’ve always had an interest in the built environment and design, and this was further developed after I gained an MA in Housing from Bristol University in 1994, after finishing my initial degree in Glasgow. Since then I have spent my career pursuing this interest and passion both in the private and public sector.

This experience has provided me with a huge depth of knowledge about the development and delivery of various housing models, particularly for universities and colleges, together with an understanding of successful management and funding aspects. I also have similar experience within the healthcare sector.

I’m a firm believer in pushing and challenging conventional approaches and developing new ideas. I am a member of the Chartered Institute of Housing and the National Housing Federation, which broadens my appreciation of housing and the ways in which it can make a difference to the way people live.

Outside of Alumno I have a keen interest in the arts and 20th century design. I also have a passion for music and cinema, and love spending time with my family and two young daughters.

Development Director

Ron Plunz

I have joined Alumno from a design and project management focussed background which led me from my beginnings in Germany, where I studied Architecture and worked on my first projects in Berlin to more recent projects in the UK. My involvement covered inception, design, procurement and construction stages of residential, student housing, commercial, refurbishment and mixed uses schemes of various scale.

In tandem with my design-led experiences as a lead consultant on various building projects I grew keen to explore value creation, business strategies in conjunction with sustainable aims or limitations. As a consequence I undertook a Master’s in International Business and Development at Birkbeck University of London which broadened my perspective on the business sector in general, stakeholder management and marketing & business strategies.

This somewhat complemented many of the responsibilities I had, for instance finding creative solutions to project specific problems often involving regulatory challenges or commercial assessments and strategic planning.

Apart from making most of my experiences to help creating new, distinctive and inspiring student homes, in my spare time I am continuing to discover London and surrounds. I also enjoy a good film or documentary and would love to travel much more and yes, I am still interested in excellent architecture, interior design and graphic design.

PR & Office Manager

Rebecca Dean

Since graduating in Law at Leeds Metropolitan University and qualifying as a solicitor, I’ve held a range of roles with law firms and in the creative arts. My role at Alumno involves ensuring that the day-to-day aspects of the business run smoothly, keeping everyone organised and liaising closely with clients.

I have a particular interest in my role in developing student focus groups and design competitions, where we ask students to get involved and have a say in how the buildings are designed. I love the buzz and excitement of this fascinating, busy and vibrant business, as well as working alongside a talented and experienced team.

Through my passion for the arts, I curate and oversee exhibitions at a West London gallery – a reflection of my true fascination with design and the creative industries.

Senior Development Manager

Jonny Darbishire

Originally from Yorkshire, I started my career in the built environment sector, training as a Quantity Surveyor at a main Contractor and working on listed high-end refurbishment projects. Following training, I have held positions at a northern based Residential Developer and also a top London based Project Management Consultancy where I lead project delivery from acquisition to completion and occupation. I have worked in a wide breadth of sectors from large scale data centre schemes and branded residences to hotels and leisure projects.

My drive and focus on delivering design led schemes, that enhance life in community and at a cultural level, make Alumno a really exciting place to work. I’ve always been drawn to development due to my interest in the buildings that people use and inhabit and in turn their tangible effect on local communities.

Outside of work, I’m a keen cricketer and enjoy trips to the theatre and spending time with my family.

Senior Development Manager

Salomé Joanno

I originally trained in Paris as a general building engineer, and qualified as an RICS Chartered Project Management Surveyor in 2015.

For the last 15 years in London, either within developers or as part of reputable project management consultancies, I have delivered schemes across an excellent breath of sectors, e.g. education, retail, commercial fitouts. Within the last 8 years I have focused on the residential, student accommodation and affordable housing markets, which have interested me most. In fact, prior to joining Alumno, I had supported them with the delivery of Bermondsey Spa, and Aspire Point, Stratford.

I have experience of all development stages, from acquisition, through planning, procurement, construction and handover, and within my role at Alumno, I will continue to lead schemes through the ‘cradle to cradle’ cycle.

Through exposure to particularly challenging schemes, I have developed creative problem-solving skills which I will use to bring the best outcomes for the business. Alumno have brought to the market high quality attractive buildings and spaces. I am particularly interested in the user experience of students, and this is where I will focus to add further value where I can.

Outside of work, I enjoy connecting with people, fitness, mindfulness, and arts and crafts.

Development Manager

Michael Chisholm

“After studying Architecture at the University of Edinburgh, I started working as a Development Officer in Scotland. Working closely with local authorities and the Scottish Government on providing affordable housing solutions, however also taking on commercial and educational projects.

Now London based, in recent years in my role as Development Manager prior to joining Alumno, I had focussed primarily on residential development, bringing new build and refurbished properties to the Build To Rent, Sales and Affordable Housing markets. I have also developed commercial premises for retail and food & drink establishments.

I have experience working across the various stages of the property development process. From initial appraisals and financial viability assessments, through to planning, procurement, on-site construction and handover of completed projects.”

Project Manager

James Abbott