The Academy of Real Assets has announced the appointment of Eric Adler, Chief Executive of L&G Asset Management, as its new Chair. Adler will take over from Phil Clark, who is stepping down after six years as the founding non-executive chair of the advisory board.
The Academy of Real Assets, a social enterprise, connects the UK’s leading real estate and real asset companies with students from state schools, offering insights into the sector and career opportunities.
Clark played a pivotal role in establishing the Academy in 2019, following a distinguished 37-year career in real estate investment, including his tenure as Global Head of Real Assets Equity at Aegon Asset Management. Reflecting on his time as Chair, Clark said:
“It has been a great honour to work alongside founder and CEO Stephen Yorke and our Academy members to create what has become a leading force for social impact in the real estate and real assets sectors. Now that the Academy is well established, it is the right time to pass on the chair role.
“I am deeply grateful to all our members and partners – from schools to sports clubs and Premier League foundations such as Arsenal, Crystal Palace, and West Ham – who have contributed to changing so many students’ lives. I couldn’t be more thrilled to leave the advisory board in the hands of Eric and Stephen. Both have a strong track record of delivery, and I am confident the Academy will continue to grow and thrive.”
In 2024, the Academy organised 70 in-person events, supporting over 3,500 students from underserved communities. Looking ahead, it plans to expand its membership from 50 to over 100 companies in the coming year.
Adler expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating:
“I am truly excited to step up as Chair of the Academy’s advisory board. This is an organisation that creates real opportunities for students and engages them with a sector that can transform our built environment. Our goal is to significantly grow the Academy’s membership, allowing us to extend our reach and impact across the UK.”
Adler took on the role of CEO at L&G Asset Management in December 2024, following his tenure as President and CEO of PGIM Private Alternatives, the asset management arm of Prudential Financial. His extensive experience also includes leadership positions at PGIM Real Estate and Tishman Speyer Europe.
With Adler at the helm, the Academy is set for an ambitious phase of growth, further strengthening its mission to connect students with the real estate and real assets industries.