TPFG’s CFO announces retirement 

After 12 years with The Property Franchise Group (TPFG), David Raggett, chief financial officer, has informed the Board of his intention to retire at or around the end of calendar year 2025, mindful of the time it may take to identify a suitably qualified successor. This timescale will allow ample time for both a process and a smooth, orderly handover period.

Over Taggett’s remaining tenure he will continue to lead the Group finance function, work closely with Gareth to deliver the strategy and guide the management team on the realisation of the benefits from the two recent acquisitions.

Homesure Property adds to its estate agency team 

Homesure Property has appointed two highly experienced negotiators to its estate agency department.

Keith Giblin and Jennifer Longrigg join the independent agency’s head office in Woolton Village, Liverpool.

Longrigg joins Homesure in the role of property sales consultant. A Liverpool local, she recently returned home from Dubai, where she was a real estate agent working with international clients in the luxury property sector.

Giblin has also recently returned to the area, following a much longer absence. Originally from Widnes, he has worked in the property industry for over 25 years. Along with his wife, he owned and managed an estate and letting agency in Bedfordshire from 2003, until selling the business 18 months ago. He joins Homesure Property to take up the role of senior valuer.

Giblin said: “I briefly considered taking early retirement, after I sold my company, but I got bored! Property sales has always been my main area of expertise, so I’m pleased to be back doing what I do best. Homesure is an independent company doing a great job; I’m looking forward to using my experience to help them grow.”

Nick Stott, CEO of Homesure Property, commented: “Estate agents don’t come more experienced than Keith, and Jennifer has an impressive track record in the luxury market. It will serve her well now she’s working in one of the most sought-after areas of Liverpool. They’re both off to a great start already.

“We’ve grown the Homesure Property Group significantly in recent years and have plans to continue that trajectory. This latest expansion of the estate agency department is an important step in that direction.”

Knight Frank appoints Olivia Firmin as head of lettings

Knight Frank has appointed Olivia Firmin as head of lettings in its Wimbledon office.

Olivia, an associate in the firm joined Knight Frank in 2016 and has worked across Central, South West and East London, leading to considerable experience across the diverse London markets. Most recently she was head of lettings in the firm’s Fulham office.

In her new role, Olivia will run Knight Frank’s lettings office in Wimbledon. She will be tasked with leading the team of negotiators and building the firm’s market share in the area.

Firmin commented, “I am delighted to be joining the Wimbledon office and the fantastic team already in place here. Having worked in the industry for over 15 years, I am passionate about what I do and excited to building long lasting relationships and provide excellent customer service in this new patch.”

Mel Constantinou, regional partner at Knight Frank, added: “Olivia brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to lead this thriving team and I have every confidence that with her drive and determination she will do the very best for our clients along with delivering exceptional service.

Estate agency hails ‘transformational’ year following major acquisitions