Chris Chapman, the divisional managing director of Andrews Property Group’s estate agency business is to retire in March this year after 37 years.

Chapman took over the running of the firm’s estate agency operation in 2014, having previously overseen the group’s financial services arm for nearly 20 years.

His successor has not yet been announced.

Chapman (pictured) started his career with Andrews in 1981, working at its financial services division in Carshalton, Surrey.

Within three years he had become district manager, covering Essex, north London and Kent. By 1986 he was a director of the business and took over the running of the financial services division in 1998.

He has also served as a trustee of the Andrews pension fund, a trustee of Andrews Charitable Trust (ACT) and a trustee of the charities Advantage Africa and Dementia Adventure which have each received support from ACT.

Chapman said: “I have been fortunate enough to work with many very talented people at Andrews through the years and my career here has been defined by significant changes within the industry.

“There have been numerous opportunities to seize over the years and I have relished the opportunity to do so. I believe my experience at Andrews demonstrates just how progression is possible if you’re prepared to work very hard and take advantage of every opportunity. I don’t doubt that the business will go on to enjoy continued success as the entire property sector evolves yet further.”

David Westgate, group chief executive at Andrews Property Group, added: “Chris’ contribution to Andrews cannot be underestimated.

“Whilst both the financial services and estate agency divisions have benefited enormously from his time here, so too have many of the organisations that our charitable owner ACT supports – that’s something which we’ll all miss about Chris, along with his attention to detail, wit, charm and positive attitude.”

Chapman’s departure follows that of previous chief executive Michael Robson at the end of 2016. Like Chapman, Robson had a long career with Andrews, spanning 40 years. Westgate himself has been with the firm over 20 years.

Andrews is unique in the estate agency world, being owned by three charities.