Senior new homes consultant returns to Savills after three years away
Savills has appointed Iain Powis as an associate director in its residential development sales team in Oxford.
Powis returns to the firm after three years working in senior roles at two independent property businesses.
He previously spent 11 years at Savills, working across its Banbury, Summertown and Cheltenham offices. His work focused primarily on residential development sales.
In his new role, Powis will advise housebuilders, developers, landowners and institutional clients on residential developments across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas.
He has almost 20 years of experience in the property industry.
Powis said: “After more than a decade with Savills earlier in my career, I am excited to return to our residential development sales team in Oxford.
“It was the people and collaborative culture that drew me back, as well as the opportunity to be part of a team with such a deservedly strong reputation and market presence.
“Savills played a significant role in my professional development, and I look forward to building on that foundation over the months and years ahead.”
Nicola Horner, regional head of Savills Residential Development Sales, said: “Iain brings extensive experience across the residential development sector and a deep understanding of the Oxfordshire market.
“His track record advising developers and landowners, together with his strategic approach to residential development, make him an excellent addition to the team.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome him back to Savills as we continue to grow our specialist offering across the region.”
Zoopla COO quits after three years
Zoopla chief operating officer Rich Hayes has left the property portal after three years in the role.
Hayes has also stepped down as a director and plans to focus on his own business interests.
He is a strategic adviser at Mojo Mortgages, which he co-founded, and a non-executive director at financial advice platform Unbiased.
A Zoopla spokesperson said: “Rich Hayes has decided to move on from Zoopla after three years as COO. He leaves to pursue his ambition of leading a business again. We thank him for his contribution and wish him well.”
Hayes joined Zoopla’s senior leadership before Paul Whitehead became chief executive in March 2025.
At the time of Whitehead’s appointment, Hayes retained responsibility for the portal’s day-to-day operations.
Zoopla has not announced a replacement for Hayes.
