Lion’s Head: Adaptable design underpins long-term success in real estate

A long-term approach built on trust, flexibility, and a genuine interest in helping companies navigate change. This is the foundation on which Alina Necula, Managing Director of Regional Developments AG Capital Group and Country Manager for Romania Lion’s Head, has built the success of the company in the local market.

By Anda Sebesi

What were your company’s key achievements this year?

This year marked a turning point for Lion’s Head in Romania. After many years of consolidating our position in the office sector, we entered the logistics market with our first development, Lion’s Head Logistics Park in Popesti-Leordeni. It’s a strategic step forward, supported by a strong local team, the experience of colleagues in Bulgaria who already operate significant logistics assets, and the long-term partnership with IFC, part of the World Bank Group.

We have completed all pre-development phases, secured the permits, finalised the design, and began the initial on-site work. It has been a meticulous process, involving a high degree of coordination between teams, consultants, the constructor, and our project management partners. Another major achievement is the continued strong performance of Oregon Park, which remains a reference point in the Bucharest office market.

How important are ESG and sustainability aspects for your company today?

For us, sustainability is a long-term commitment to how we build. Much of this mindset comes from our experience with Oregon Park. The campus is certified BREEAM Excellent and holds the WELL Health & Safety certification, two benchmarks that reflect a consistent focus on energy performance, natural light, generous green areas, and a healthy workplace environment. Over the years, we have continuously upgraded Oregon Park with technologies that reduce consumption, improve air quality, and enhance overall well-being.

The new park was designed from the outset to achieve EDGE Advanced, a certification that requires measurable improvements in energy, water, and materials efficiency. Every design element, from lighting and ventilation to photovoltaic systems and resource management, has been evaluated through a sustainability lens. Flexibility also plays a key role. The halls can accommodate a wide range of operational needs, from traditional warehousing to temperature-controlled areas or light production flows.

What proved most difficult to navigate from a management perspective this year?

One of the defining characteristics of this year has been the pace of change in the business environment. Markets are shifting quickly, companies are rethinking their operational models, and new technologies, especially AI, are reshaping the way decisions are made. In such a context, the real challenge is not external volatility itself, but the ability to remain agile, listen to your clients, and quickly adapt to what they need.

That has been our focus. Whether in offices or logistics, everything starts with understanding how our tenants’ businesses are evolving: what pressures they are facing, how their teams are working, how their supply chains are changing, or what operational constraints they want to overcome.

Which trends, shifts, or risks do you expect to have the biggest impact on your industry in 2026?

Volatility will continue to define the global business environment, influenced by economic shifts, geopolitical uncertainty, and the rapid acceleration of technology. In real estate, this translates into pressure on costs, increasing expectations around energy efficiency, and a strong focus on flexibility.

In logistics, demand for modern, sustainable, and well-connected spaces will remain high. Companies will continue to optimise their supply chains, strengthening regional hubs and seeking better access to workforce and infrastructure. Meanwhile, the office market will keep evolving as AI, automation, and new work models reshape how companies use physical space. Projects that combine good location, strong connectivity, efficient design, and long-term adaptability will stand out.

Alina Necula, Managing Director of Regional Developments AG Capital Group and Country Manager for Romania Lion’s Head: Projects that combine good location, strong connectivity, efficient design, and long-term adaptability will stand out.

How do you unwind after a demanding week?

Time with my daughter is my favourite way to disconnect. It brings balance and a sense of calm, no matter how intense the week has been. Beyond that, I love travelling, especially to cities with a strong cultural vibe. Reading and staying active through sport also help me recharge, but nothing compares to spending time with my family.

What’s something interesting you’ve read, watched, or listened to recently?

I follow The Economist’s “Money Talks” podcast and Steven Bartlett’s conversations, which I find both sharp and refreshing. I also stay close to international real estate analyses and logistics-focused forums. At the same time, I tend to read several books in parallel. Right now, I’m going through titles such as Hostage at the Table, Real Estate Titans, Getting More of What You Want, and Real Estate Rules.

What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

One thing about me that may surprise people is that I’m naturally an introvert. Most of my energy comes from quiet moments, reflection, and spending time alone, not from being constantly surrounded by people. It may not be the image most people associate me with, but it has shaped me in meaningful ways.

Which public figure or thinker do you find inspiring right now?

I find Novak Djokovic particularly inspiring. He serves as a reminder that performance, in any field, is built on clarity, balance, and the courage to push your own limits.