FS Investments Launches Finance REIT

Lawrence brings 25 years’ experience in CRE finance to FS Investments.

PHILADELPHIA—Alternative asset manager FS Investments said Wednesday it had formalized its commercial real estate platform, launching a REIT and hiring Rob Lawrence to lead the firm’s real estate efforts. The non-listed FS Real Estate Income Trust will originate, acquire and manage a portfolio of senior loans secured by commercial properties located mainly in the US.

Named managing director and global head of real estate for FS, which has some $20 billion in assets under management, Lawrence will oversee the firm’s real estate initiatives and help manage FS Credit REIT in partnership with its sub-adviser, Rialto Capital Management LLC. The 25-year veteran of CRE investment is based in New York and reports to Mike Kelly, president and CIO of FS Investments, as part of its investment management team.