Charge point operator Believ is pushing ahead with plans to launch a fully funded EV charging proposition for the real estate sector, supported by a new appointment.

Craig Butler, property and acquisitions director, will lead the focus on the real estate sector

It’s recruited Craig Butler to the new role of property and acquisitions director to lead the focus on the real estate sector.

The company will offer fully funded EV charge point installation supported by an end-to-end solution that takes property clients from consultation, logistical planning and power solution support, through to installation and ongoing maintenance.

The work will support Believ’s goal to accelerate the installation of public charging in the UK through charging hubs within urban centres and along key transport routes.

Believ will use Butler’s background and network within the real estate sector to target freehold and long-lease land and partnership opportunities.

Butler has more than a decade’s experience in property advisory and asset management. He joins from commercial real estate and investment firm CBRE, where he managed large national accounts in the retail and leisure sector. More recently, he advised and supported global clients in the EV infrastructure space.

“Our priority is to identify sites that will add long-term commercial and environmental value for the landowner, whilst satisfying the requirements of EV drivers,” said Butler.

“The substantial backing that our Liberty Global and Zouk Capital funding affords us, as well as the scale that our delivery partnership with Virgin Media O2 provides, mean we are in the enviable position to move forward at speed. As the real estate market is predisposed to low-risk, inherently stable propositions, this puts Believ at a further advantage.”

Guy Bartlett, Believ CEO, said Butler was in an ideal position to help Believ differentiate itself in the property sector.

“We have a Property and Acquisitions team with more than 30 years’ combined experience capable of driving real value for our customers,” he said.

“Much of our early focus has been on enabling local authorities and businesses to support their residents and customers with convenient near-home or destination charging. This new proposition helps us to also address the ‘on-route’ charging essential for longer journeys.”