Three major property sector appointments have been announced, with Graham Lawes returning to Felicity J Lord as estate agency director after a 20-year absence from the Spicerhaart-owned London brand.
Lawes previously worked at Felicity J Lord in the mid-1990s, leading the Blackheath branch for 10 years before departing. He returns from a senior directorship at property consultancy JLL, where he worked in a corporate environment.
Focus on branch performance
In his new role, Lawes will concentrate on branch performance, market share in key locations, and the brand’s presence across London high streets. Lawes, who was born in Blackheath, said his priority centres on maintaining standards and consistency.
“London is my wheelhouse. I was born and bred in Blackheath and have spent my entire career working in this market,” Lawes stated. He met his wife during his first tenure at the company.
Antony Lark, joint group CEO of Spicerhaart, said Lawes brings “a rare blend of external perspective from a global consultancy, and a personal connection to the brand.”
Chestertons Wandsworth appointment
Separately, Chestertons has appointed Nick Darragh as sales director for its Wandsworth Common sales office. Darragh has over nine years of experience in the South West London property market and has lived in Wandsworth Common since relocating from Dublin in 2012.
Homes England leadership changes
Homes England has announced two executive appointments. Alison Crofton, currently chief property officer, will become chief regional delivery officer, overseeing delivery across five regions and the National Technical Capacity and Coordination Hub. Paul Murphy, deputy chief risk officer, has been promoted to chief risk officer.
Both appointments take effect on 1 March. A new chief financial officer will be appointed before 1 April.
Amy Rees, chief executive of Homes England, said the appointments provide “the leadership capacity, experience and clear focus needed for the year ahead” as the agency transitions to a regional structure.
The appointments reflect ongoing restructuring within London’s estate agency sector and government housing bodies as they adapt to current market conditions.
