Simon Arnes, Connells Group estate agency operations director, paid tribute to his colleagues over the last five decades as today he celebrates his 50th anniversary in the property industry.

Arnes began his career back in 1972 as an office boy with William H Brown, part of Sequence and then trading as TH Warren & Son.

A speedy rise through the ranks saw him appointed divisional managing director for Sequence’s eastern and central division, responsible for a network of nearly 100 branches covering East Anglia and the Midlands, as well as two auction centres, 40 lettings offices and five land and new home centres.

He became group estate agency operations director for Connells in 2016, charged with assisting to drive and develop the entire estate agency network.

Now in the 50th year of his career, Arnes has signalled his intention to retire and will be stepping down from the business at the end of March 2023.

“I have been fortunate to have worked with some very talented individuals throughout my career, many of whom are now in senior positions running the company,” he said.

“Our high street branches and local market knowledge remain vital despite the many changes over my 50 years, with the technology revolution undoubtedly being the biggest. We must never forget that we are a people business and, in my view, this will never change.”

David Plumtree, Connells Group estate agency chief executive, paid tribute to Arnes and congratulated him on his half-century in the business. “I would like to express our appreciation for all his hard work and service over the last 50 years,” Plumtree said.

“Simon’s whole career has been dedicated to driving the best standards in estate agency, and leaving a lasting impression on our business and, in due course, we wish him a very long, healthy and happy retirement.”