Comings & Goings

Savills appoints new head of lettings in Henley-on-Thames office

Savills has appointed a new head of lettings for its office in Henley-on-Thames.

Associate director James Harrison has worked for the firm since 2021, most recently as assistant head of lettings at its Reading and Newbury offices.

Prior to that he worked at the Henley-on-Thames office for just under four years as a negotiator and temporary head of department.

Harrison said: “It is a real privilege to take this next step in my career and lead the exceptional lettings team here in Henley.

“Having worked in the town for several years it’s an area I know exceptionally well and I’m excited to have an opportunity to shape how we grow and move forward as a business.

“The rental sector is undergoing a period of immense change, including the potential introduction of the Renters’ Rights Bill and proposed increase to minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, so it’s more important than ever that landlords and tenants receive the best possible advice.

“The lettings market in Henley and surrounding villages continues to perform very well. The town remains one of the most desirable places to live in the UK and properties – particularly high quality, well-maintained family homes – are in high demand.”

Commenting on Harrison’s appointment, Gordon Hood, who leads the residential lettings teams for Savills across the Home Counties, said: “Having worked with James for a number of years I know the department is in superb hands.

“He consistently delivers exceptional results and provides sound advice to the benefit of clients and work colleagues alike. His hard work and dedication makes this promotion very well deserved and I wish him a long and enjoyable tenure.”

Dean Fielding to leave TPFG

Dean Fielding has informed the TPFG board of his intention to step down at the end of the year.

The board is actively reviewing its composition with a view to bringing in additional expertise aligned with the group’s strategic ambitions.

Dean joined GA Property Services in 1995 and became Finance Director of Your Move in 2002. He subsequently served as Group Finance Director of AIM-listed LSL Property Services PLC from 2004 to 2010. Since 2010, Dean has performed a variety of consultancy and non-executive roles.

Dean was appointed a non-executive director of Hunters Property PLC in April 2015 and following its acquisition by TPFG joined the Board of the Property Franchise Group as a Non-Executive Director in March 2021. Dean also chairs the Remuneration Committee.

Knight Frank bolsters PCL lettings team

Knight Frank has announced strategic new hires in two of its flagship prime central London offices, appointing Jessica Cowell as head of lettings in its Chelsea office and Kirk Owen as new lettings manager in its Knightsbridge office, working with head of Knightsbridge lettings, Arya Salari.

In their new roles, they will be tasked with leading their teams and building the firm’s market share in their respective areas.

Cowell has worked across the West and South West London markets for over a decade. During her seven years at Hamptons, she advanced from lettings negotiator to become senior head of lettings in its Putney office.

Cowell commented: “I look forward to contributing my passion and market insight to strengthen the Chelsea lettings business. With an emphasis on collaboration with the rest of my team, I aim to grow the business and deliver exceptional service.”

Kirk Owen has worked in the London lettings market since 2007. Starting at Foxtons, he rose through the ranks, from top banking negotiator in the region, to running various offices in South West London as a lettings manager. He then moved to CBRE, establishing himself in the PCL market for ten years as a lettings director.

Owen said: “The exceptional expertise here presents an incredible opportunity for professional growth while working in one of London’s most prestigious property markets.’’

David Mumby, regional partner at Knight Frank, added: “Their appointment strengthens our presence across prime central London and further reinforces our commitment to providing market-leading advice and service in one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world. Together, they will play a pivotal role in Knight Frank’s leadership across prime central London, driving significant revenue and brand presence.”