A former executive from Fifth Dimension has launched a new consultancy focused on helping real estate organisations navigate the practical challenges of AI adoption and digital transformation.
James King announced the creation of Vela Advisors on 4 March 2026, positioning the firm as a specialist advisory platform designed to bridge the gap between strategic ambition and operational implementation of technology across the property sector.
The launch reflects growing demand among institutional owners, operators and advisory firms for guidance on deploying AI within complex real estate portfolios. While the availability of PropTech and AI tools has expanded rapidly, many organisations continue to face challenges translating technology strategy into practical execution.
In announcing the venture, James said the real estate industry is entering a period where technology capability is advancing quickly but clarity around deployment remains limited.
“I’m proud to announce the launch of Vela Advisors. The quality of technology and AI available to real estate owners and operators has never been better – and it’s increasing by the day. We’ve never been able to say this before.”
James King, Founder, Vela Advisors
James added that the real challenge for many organisations is not a shortage of solutions, but understanding how to implement them effectively.
“But while the opportunity has never been greater, the what, when and how is more confusing than ever. And the cost of getting it wrong – or doing nothing – keeps growing.”
James King, Founder, Vela Advisors
Before launching Vela Advisors, James worked at Fifth Dimension, where he engaged with over 300 institutional real estate organisations on AI adoption. His career also includes roles managing global client relationships at VTS and earlier experience at CBRE.
“The challenge for most organisations isn’t a lack of ambition or a shortage of solutions. It’s bridging the gap between strategic intent and practical execution – connecting what the business needs with what’s now technologically possible, and managing the change required to ensure it lasts.”
James King, Founder, Vela Advisors
Vela Advisors will focus on advising both real estate companies and PropTech firms. For property owners and operators, the consultancy will help identify where AI and digital tools can deliver measurable operational or commercial impact.
For technology companies, the firm aims to support growth in enterprise real estate markets through strategic positioning and industry engagement.
“Vela Advisors works with real estate owners, operators and advisors to identify where technology and AI can have the greatest impact – and make it happen.”
James King, Founder, Vela Advisors
As AI adoption accelerates across investment management, asset operations and development workflows, advisory services focused on technology strategy are emerging as an important layer within the PropTech ecosystem.
For many real estate organisations, the challenge is no longer identifying technology opportunities but prioritising the right applications and implementing them at scale.
