Jackson-Stops Cheltenham strengthens team
Jackson-Stops Cheltenham has announced the appointment of Sophia Binns as sales director.
Binns, who has worked in the estate agency sector for almost six years, has previously worked for Andrews, Perry Bishop, and Savills – where she first worked alongside Jackson-Stops Cheltenham director, Chris Jarrett.
Jarrett said: “Having worked closely with her in the past, I know first-hand the calibre of service she offers to clients and the energy she brings to everything she does. She has an exceptional eye for detail, a real flair for property, and shares our belief in providing honest, intelligent advice with a highly personal approach. I’m thrilled to be working with her again.”
In her new role as sales director, Binns will focus on growing the agency’s reach across Cheltenham and the Cotswolds.
“This is a business with strong values, a fantastic local reputation, and a clear commitment to doing things the right way,” said Binns. “Working alongside Chris again is a real pleasure, and I’m excited to help take the business to new heights.”
President of NAVA Propertymark joins Bidx1
Online property auction platform Bidx1 has appointed Stuart Collar-Brown, who is the current president of NAVA Propertymark.
Before joining Bidx1, Collar-Brown spent time at Pattinson Auctions (2017-2019) before launching his own venture, My Auction, in 2019, just months before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. My Auction later merged with Rocket Auctions, part of Bamboo.
His extensive experience includes key roles at prominent auction houses. He played a significant part in expanding the auction divisions at Strakers, helping to launch successful operations in Swindon and Bath and increasing their auction frequency.
He was also part of the initial launch team at Auction House London, contributing to their early growth.
Collar-Brown also oversaw a vast network of over 300 estate agency branches during his time at Countrywide Auctions in Kensington. He joined Propertymark in 2010 and was named president in 2024.
Collar-Brown commented, “Joining such an experienced team at Bidx1, with peers I highly respect, is a fantastic opportunity for growth. I’m particularly excited by the unparalleled scope to work with both corporate and professional clients. The ability to continue my work with existing estate agent relationships across the UK, while also developing strategic partnerships with other agents who want to offer an auction service, is a real advantage. I look forward to continuing to give clients the best advice for their property.”
He added, “While I have gained significant experience within other online auction models, my foundational training in the traditional auction room has instilled in me the importance of understanding individual needs and providing tailored solutions. Bidx1’s approach aligns perfectly with my ethos of helping people achieve their property goals, especially those who are facing challenging circumstances.”
Oliver Childs, MD of Bidx1 UK, said: “Stuart brings enthusiasm and passion for property auctions, which aligns perfectly with Bidx1 UK’s ethos. The current market has become more challenging, so we are seeing an uptick in the need for auctions as some of our clients seek to deleverage and manage their risk in the real estate sector.”
Knight Frank appoints new non-exec adviser
Knight Frank has appointed Mary O’Connor to the group executive board as a non-executive adviser.
She has more than 30 years of leadership experience across CEO, C-suite, and non-executive roles.
A dual-qualified US and UK lawyer, O’Connor was previously UK CEO at accountancy firm KPMG’s non-audit business and has held senior positions with insurance broker Willis Towers Watson and the Financial Services Authority (now part of the FCA).
She is currently chair of the audit committee of Hargreaves Lansdown and serves on the board of Carne Group.
William Beardmore-Gray, senior partner and group chair at Knight Frank, commented: “Mary is a proven leader and commercially astute executive who brings invaluable insight to our business.
“Her skillset complements that of our actively engaged and dynamic board, strengthening our collective ability to navigate both opportunities and challenges.
“With a track record of leading some of the most successful growth transformations, Mary will be a trusted source of insight and guidance as we expand our capabilities and footprint.”
O’Connor added: “The company’s culture of seamless collaboration and relentless client focus is impressive, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success.
“With exceptional prospects ahead, I am eager to work alongside the board to help drive strategic initiatives and ensure sustainable growth.”
Read the orginal article: https://propertyindustryeye.com/comings-goings-297/
