Harding Green, a London-based real estate brokerage, has poached Olivia Highwood from LCP Private Office for a top job. The former head of lettings and property management brings over ten years' experience to her new role as lettings operations director at Harding Green. Highwood will spearhead operational strategy across the lettings division, working with partners to drive growth objectives.
The strategic hire comes as Harding Green seeks to expand its presence in the competitive London lettings market. CEO Nick Carter highlighted that Highwood's expertise would be instrumental in strengthening the firm's lettings business as it scales up. The London lettings market has shown no signs of slowing down, with a sustained influx of international buyers.
Meanwhile, national housebuilder Bellway has made a key appointment in its Manchester division. Patrick Swallow joins as strategic land and planning manager, bringing three-and-a-half years' experience in planning and land acquisition teams to the role. Based at the regional head office in Warrington, his responsibilities will encompass land acquisition and site management through the intricate planning process.
Swallow, a Macclesfield native, holds a degree in marketing and management from Newcastle University and a master's in planning. His appointment underscores Bellway's commitment to bolstering its land team in an area experiencing sustained housebuilding activity – particularly as housing policy remains a government priority.
These appointments reflect the ongoing recruitment drive within the property sector, where firms are strengthening their operational teams across both lettings and development functions. As the industry navigates evolving market conditions and new regulatory requirements, these strategic moves aim to maintain growth and efficiency in a dynamic environment.