Toby Downes joins Strutt & Parker as a director
Strutt & Parker has announced the appointment of Toby Downes as director in London, returning to the property consultancy after 13 years. His new role will see him advising buyers and sellers across prime central and SW London.
Downes joins Strutt & Parker from Haringtons where he spent three years advising ultra-high net worth buyers in London. During this time he has built up an extensive contact book enabling him to strategically advise and support his clients across all stages of the transaction cycle.
Prior to working as a buying agent, Downes spent almost nine years at Savills, during which he helped form the firm’s super-prime development team.
Downes commented: “Returning to Strutt & Parker at this re-defining point in the agency’s journey is very exciting. Strutt & Parker is known for exceptional client service, with a culture that aligns with my own approach. I’m delighted to be working with a talented network of agents at Strutt & Parker as we help our clients navigate an ever-changing marketplace.”
Claire Reynolds, UK head of sales at Strutt & Parker, commented: “Toby has an exceptional reputation in our industry. He upholds the highest standards of service and has deep rooted relationships with his clients, coupled by his ability to achieve superb results even in more challenging markets.
“High-net-worth buyers expect comprehensive advice and support across the entire transaction process; Toby is a leading name in our sector to do this. We are thrilled that he has joined Strutt & Parker at this stage of our expansion.”
United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty strengthens senior team
United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty has appointed Thomas Brooks and Stephanie Russo as sales director and consultant lettings director, respectively.
Sales director, Brooks, has operated across the breadth of London – including Hampstead, Shoreditch and South-West London – while specialising in the prime central London residential market. He was one of Marsh & Parson’s highest billing agents before expanding Foxtons’ market share in the £3m+ segment within their Private Office (then known as the Prime Department).
Brooks said: “London’s luxury property sector has immense potential, particularly in Prime Central London, where international demand continues to strengthen. Understanding the broader economic picture is a big part of how I work, and the firm has proven it knows how to capitalise on opportunities regardless of the market conditions. I’m looking forward to being part of the team and am excited to contribute to its success.”
Consultant lettings director, Russo, specialises in ultra-luxury rentals across Kensington, Chelsea, Belgravia, St John’s Wood, Hampstead and Regent’s Park. She began her property career in Australia and Paris before establishing herself at Douglas & Gordon in London. She then went on to join Chestertons, where she rose to head of super prime office.
Russo commented, “I’m thrilled to be part of the United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty team. Having built my career across three continents and worked with clientele from diverse markets, I’ve seen firsthand how critical personalised service is in ultra-luxury lettings. The firm’s commitment to elevating bespoke client experiences aligns perfectly with my goals, and I look forward to contributing to the growth of the lettings division.”
The two Prime Central London specialists join as the brokerage bolsters its leadership team with the recent appointment of Dominik Graf as director of operations.
Alex Isidro, MD at United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty, shared: “Against all odds, we’ve had a phenomenal year and I’m confident Thomas and Stephanie will only help accelerate that momentum. They both bring the level of expertise and dedication that defines our business and will be key players as we continue setting industry standards.”
CBRE reinforces UK regional leadership with key appointments in Edinburgh, Leeds and Liverpool
CBRE has announced the appointment of new leaders across the three key UK cities of Edinburgh, Leeds and Liverpool, effective 1 January 2026.
Angela Lowe has been appointed head of Edinburgh. Lowe has been with CBRE for more than a decade and leads the office agency team in Scotland. She brings extensive experience advising occupiers, developers and investors across the country. Lowe is succeeding Mark Little, who will continue with the firm as head of building consultancy and integrated PJM Scotland.
In Leeds, Mike Baugh will assume the role of head of Leeds, succeeding Richard Bamford, who will continue as head of building consultancy, UK regional markets and UK head of building surveying. With over 12 years at CBRE, Baugh will continue to lead the Industrial & Logistics, North division and has a proven track record of success.
CBRE has also appointed Neil Kirkham as the head of Liverpool. Kirkham, who has been with CBRE for more than 13 years, has built strong relationships with developer, investor, leasing and occupier clients across the region.
John Ogden, managing director, UK regional markets at CBRE, commented: “These appointments underscore our ongoing commitment to continue to invest in our regional leadership across the UK.
“Angela, Mike and Neil each bring exceptional market knowledge and client relationships that will be instrumental in driving continued growth and delivering outstanding results for our clients.”
Read the orginal article: https://propertyindustryeye.com/comings-goings-369/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=comings-goings-369
