Stephen Castellani has been confirmed as the new owner of Martin & Co’s Tonbridge office, bringing with him plenty of experience in global business and property, but none as an estate agent.

The Chatham-born businessman takes the reins from Robert Gordon-James and his wife Katrina, who had been the national sales and lettings agency’s Tonbridge franchisees since 2011.

Castellani’s business and property career has spanned projects in the UK, Isle of Man, Hong Kong and Spain and he inherits an experienced team in the Kent town.

He said: “As a Kent man, the area means a lot to me and I’m sure, alongside the fantastic team in Tonbridge, we’ll be able to maintain and build upon the great reputation the branch has in the local area.

“It’s a business with huge growth potential, as it’s a very large patch but not all of that patch is being used, so it was a perfect fit for me as someone who loves to grow businesses.

“I’m very lucky to have a very experienced team in the office, which has been perfect while I settle in and get to grips with everything.

“Ultimately, I am very focused on growth, so having an experienced franchise behind me will play a big role in that.”

Martin & Co managing director, Eric Walker, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Stephen to the Martin & Co family.

“His business experience is second to none and he brings with him a wealth of knowledge.

“Alongside the excellent branch team, I’m confident the Tonbridge office will go from strength to strength under his leadership.”