<p>The podcast series where property meets people.</p>

<h1>devcast</h1>

<h1>What happens when two forward-thinking entrepreneurs decide to shake things up?</h1>
<p>That&rsquo;s exactly what Jonathan Brandling-Harris and Richard Bryce, Co-founders of House Collective are doing.</p>
<p align="start">In the latest episode of devcast&hellip;, Ryan Doyle - Senior Business Development Manager at deverellsmith sat down with the pair to explore their fresh take on estate agency, their B-Corp status, and their commitment to putting people first.</p>
<p align="start">Read a snippet from the podcast below&hellip;</p>
<h3 align="start"><strong>From rugby fields to real estate</strong></h3>
<p align="start">Jonathan has had quite the journey - starting in professional rugby before transitioning into the corporate real estate world. Reflecting on his career shift, he acknowledges that the structured, high-pressure culture of traditional agencies didn&rsquo;t quite align with his vision. Instead, he and Richard sought to create a space where agents could thrive in an environment built on autonomy, collaboration, and ethical responsibility.</p>
<h3 align="start"><strong>What sets House Collective apart?</strong></h3>
<p align="start">Their philosophy is simple: slow down, focus on quality over quantity, and put clients&rsquo; needs first. House Collective prioritises a more curated approach. By ensuring that agents handle fewer properties at a time, they can provide a more personalised and attentive service to their clients.</p>
<p align="start">But what truly makes House Collective unique is its dual-discipline model. Unlike traditional firms that separate sales and lettings into two distinct roles, House Collective encourages its agents to be proficient in both. This not only provides agents with more career opportunities but also ensures that clients receive a seamless experience, whether they are buying, selling, or renting.</p>
<h3 align="start"><strong>A commitment to ethics: Achieving B-Corp status</strong></h3>
<p align="start">One of House Collectives' standout achievements is their B-Corp certification. Achieving this wasn't easy for Richard and Jonathan, it was a rigorous process that demanded transparency, sustainability, and ethical business practices. But, for House Collective, it wasn&rsquo;t about checking a box; it was about solidifying their values and setting a new standard for estate agencies.</p>

House Collective: A new era for estate agencies 

<h1>Our guest in this episode of devcast&hellip; is Parul Scampion, Principal and COO of Fruition Properties.</h1>
<p>For over 20 years, Parul has played a pivotal role in the success of Fruition Properties, taking on diverse responsibilities across the organisation. She has been instrumental in driving the company&rsquo;s growth, particularly overseeing its Finance and Planning functions, while shaping its strategic direction.</p>
<p>Before joining Fruition Properties, Parul worked as a financial analyst and management consultant at a leading Big Four professional services firm. She is a qualified chartered accountant and holds a BA from New College, Oxford, as well as an MSc from the London School of Economics.</p>
<p>Read a snippet from the podcast below!</p>
<h3><strong>A non-traditional route into property</strong></h3>
<p>Parul began her career studying politics and working in the public sector, where she qualified as an accountant. Seeking a faster-paced environment, she transitioned into management consultancy, spending six years tackling challenges for large organisations and travelling extensively.</p>
<p>After starting a family, Parul sought a better work-life balance. At that time, her brother had just launched Fruition Properties and completed its first construction project. He invited her to join the business to support its operations and systems. Two decades later, Parul remains vital to the company&rsquo;s success and growth.</p>
<h3><strong>Advice for starting your career in property</strong></h3>
<p>We asked Parul what advice she would give to someone considering taking a leap of faith into the property industry. Her response? &ldquo;Say yes.&rdquo; She encourages embracing opportunities, even if they seem daunting at first. Parul advises focusing on discovering what you excel at and using that as a foundation to build your career.</p>
<p>She believes that each job presents an opportunity to learn more about what you enjoy and what might not be the best fit for you. There&rsquo;s immense value in exploring diverse roles and experiences until you find an environment that feels like home&mdash;a place where you can truly grow and develop your skills. By remaining open to possibilities and trusting the process, you can carve out a fulfilling path in the property industry.</p>

Parul Scampion: Shaping the award-winning SME Developer Fruition Properties

<h1>Our guest in this episode of devcast&hellip; is Tom Venner - Chief Development Officer at the Canary Wharf Group.</h1>
<p align="start">Tom joined Canary Wharf Group (CWG) in July 2022 and oversees the delivery of the Group's development pipeline, which includes major projects at North Quay and Wood Wharf. These developments will bring new homes, hotels, retail, and commercial spaces to Canary Wharf, along with a life sciences campus for London. Additionally, Tom&rsquo;s team manages the final phase of the Shell Centre redevelopment in partnership with Qatari Diar.</p>
<p align="start">Read a snippet from the podcast below.</p>
<h3 align="start"><strong>Back to the beginning</strong></h3>
<p align="start">This podcast episode features the journey of Tom, a chartered surveyor who started his career right after earning his degree from Reading University. He began in consultancy with Montagu Evans, where he quickly honed his skills and gained diverse experience working with high-profile clients, including Landsec and British Land.</p>
<p align="start">A pivotal moment came when a client from Landsec invited him to join their team. Recognising a rare opportunity, Tom took the leap and joined Landsec in 2007. His early years there were filled with excitement, as he worked on designing and developing shopping centres during a vibrant period for retail. However, the global financial crisis soon transformed the landscape, presenting new challenges and shifting his focus. Landsec asked him to step into asset management, refilling and revitalising vacant shopping centres, and ultimately preparing them for sale. Tom embraced this unexpected role, which took him to places he hadn&rsquo;t yet explored and left him with lasting memories.</p>
<p align="start">A few years later, as the market stabilised, Tom returned to Landsec&rsquo;s London development team. This marked a transformative phase, as he contributed to the regeneration of Victoria, helping to open up spaces and modernise buildings from the 1950s. Reflecting on this time, Tom shares invaluable lessons learned and fond memories from working with talented people, who shaped both his career and his enduring passion for urban development.</p>
<h3 align="start">​</h3>
<h3 align="start"><strong>Why Tom joined the visionaries behind Canary Wharf&rsquo;s transformation</strong></h3>
<p align="start">Tom shares his long-standing admiration for Canary Wharf Group, noting how remarkable it is for a development to reach such maturity in just 30-35 years. For a property professional, witnessing Canary Wharf&rsquo;s transformation&mdash;from empty land to the vibrant, iconic hub it is today&mdash;is nothing short of extraordinary.</p>
<p align="start">What ultimately drew Tom to join the Canary Wharf Group was the people. He reflects on how every individual he met at the organisation left a lasting impression, inspiring him with their talent and vision. Working alongside such an impressive team has been a defining part of his journey, fueling his excitement and commitment to Canary Wharf&rsquo;s future.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h3 align="start"><strong>Defining excellence and building a team inspired by CEO Shobi Khan</strong></h3>
<p align="start">Tom reflects on a piece of advice from CEO Shobi Khan that left a lasting impact:&nbsp;<em>"Only hire people you think are exceptional."</em>&nbsp;Khan emphasised the importance of not settling for quick hires, but rather holding out for those who truly stand out.</p>
<p align="start">This principle leads to a key question:&nbsp;<em>What defines &lsquo;exceptional&rsquo;?</em> Tom shares the qualities he seeks in top talent. First, he values natural enthusiasm&mdash;people who are genuinely passionate about their work tend to excel and thrive in their roles. Another vital quality is clear commercial acumen. In a field focused on both design and profitability, Tom looks for individuals who can balance creativity with a sharp business sense, envisioning solutions that ensure both aesthetic and financial success. This instinctive ability to navigate challenges while keeping a commercial lens is something he prizes highly in his team.</p>

Tom Venner: From the ground up at the Canary Wharf Group

<h1>Our guest in this episode of devcast&hellip; is David Young - an acclaimed sports psychologist with an impressive career working with England Cricket and a top Premier League club.</h1>
<p>Hosted by Andrew Deverell-Smith, Global CEO and founder of deverellsmith &amp; Hintel, David shares his journey into the world of sports psychology, revealing how he built his career and became a spotlight-accredited practitioner with Mindflick. Through his work, David has helped organisations, including Hintel and the deverellsmith group, enhance leadership and team dynamics by mapping leadership profiles and leveraging strengths for maximum performance.</p>
<h3>How can businesses within the property industry create high-performing teams?</h3>
<p>During the conversation, David delves into the critical elements of creating high-performance teams. He explores how understanding group dynamics, leveraging strengths, and balancing challenge and support can transform ordinary groups into exceptional teams.</p>

David Young: How to build high-performance

<h1 align="left">A new lease of life...</h1>
<p>Welcome to a new lease of life, a sub-series of the devcast&hellip; podcast, where you&rsquo;ll be learning how experts of the Build to Rent, PRS, student accommodation and retirement living sectors climbed the ladder of their professions.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="left">Hosted by Nick Hammond, Head of Build to Rent at deverellsmith, our guest in the studio this episode is Nicola Fleet-Milne, CEO of FleetMilne.</p>
<p align="left">Nicola is the owner of a renowned and award-winning estate agency nestled in the vibrant Colmore BID district. Since establishing the company in 2004, Nicola has steered the company to prominence, earning it a respected reputation as one of Birmingham's premier residential agencies.</p>
<p align="left">She shares her inspiring journey to success, her commitment to the Colmore BID and what plans she has for the upcoming year.</p>

Nicola Fleet-Milne: Pushing the boundaries of luxury hospitality

<h2>Our guest in this episode of devcast&hellip; is Nick Cuff - Chief Commerical Officer at Pocket Living, an organisation working hard to get middle-earning Londoners onto the property ladder.</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Nick&rsquo;s vision and expertise have been pivotal in revolutionising the way we think about affordable housing and sustainable living in urban environments. He was one of the driving forces in one of the most innovative businesses within the industry Pocket Living. As the Chief Commerical Officer, he&rsquo;s been instrumental in crafting strategies that marry functionality, sustainability and community engagement.</p>
<p>Hosted by Andrew Deverell-Smith, Global CEO and founder of deverellsmith &amp; Hintel, listen as they dive into Nick&rsquo;s back-to-front way of getting into the property market, how he came to work at Pocket Living, his favourite parts of his career so far and the challenges he finds with regarding the politics of the property industry.</p>

Nick Cuff: The politics of UK housing

<h2>Our guest in this episode of devcast&hellip; is Anna Kear &ndash; CEO of Tonic Housing, a community-led, pioneering organisation, creating the first LGBTQ+ affirming retirement community in the UK.</h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hosted by Andrew Deverell-Smith, Global CEO and founder of deverellsmith &amp; Hintel, listen as they dive into Anna&rsquo;s experience beginning her career within homeless accommodations, the challenges she faced, and how this led to her to steering Tonic housing towards remarkable successes, pushing boundaries, breaking down barriers along the way.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Read below a snippet of Anna&rsquo;s story or watch the full podcast below.&nbsp;</p>
<p>​</p>
<h3><strong>Home economics to housing communities</strong><strong>&hellip;</strong></h3>
<p>Anna discovered her passion for housing during her home economics studies. During her job search, she became inspired by a position focusing on homeless accommodation&mdash;a place designed to aid individuals in transitioning from the streets to more permanent housing, providing a supportive environment for up to a year. At a mere 21 years old, this position challenged her, reshaping her perspective on housing as more than just bricks and mortar; it became intricately tied to people&rsquo;s experiences. Many who sought refuge in the accommodation grappled with substance abuse, mental health struggles, and the trauma of homelessness. Understanding this holistic view became a crucial lesson for Anna.</p>
<h3>Prevention over reaction</h3>
<p>Subsequently, she transitioned into the role of a homelessness officer during the late 80&rsquo;s, a period rife with mortgage repossessions. Anna worked to expand temporary accommodation while maintaining a keen focus on the human aspect of this crisis. Within 2 years, she proposed a transformative paper aimed at restructuring the system. Her vision aimed to pivot from a reactive service to a homelessness prevention initiative, aiming to intervene earlier in the process to avert the anguish of homelessness.</p>
<p>​</p>
<h3><strong>Creating retirement communities for all</strong><strong>&hellip;</strong></h3>
<p>Having garnered extensive experience across almost every facet of the housing industry, Anna delved into the story behind Tonic Housing. The idea was a concept of Tonic&rsquo;s Founders and board members, sparked from their own life experiences and questions around the choices available to them regarding housing as an elderly member of the LGBTQ+ community. From this, they observed a notable absence of inclusive choices in the housing market, spurring them to offer secure alternatives. Their passion was driven by the aspiration to create a haven where individuals could not only embrace their LGBTQ+ identity but also find solace among like-minded individuals who truly understood their journey.</p>

Anna Kear: Creating the first LBTQ+ affirming retirement community 

<h2 align="left"><strong>Our guest in this episode of devcast... is Sotheby&rsquo;s giant, George Azar &ndash; Chairman &amp; CEO of Sotheby&rsquo;s International Realty (UK &amp; Dubai).</strong></h2>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">Hosted by Andrew Deverell-Smith, Global CEO &amp; Founder of deverellsmith &amp; Hintel, listen as they delve into how George mastered banking and transitioned that success into running arguably one of the most lucrative estate agency businesses on the planet.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">George&rsquo;s unwavering belief in positivity fuels his success as a standout entrepreneur, pivotal in elevating Dubai&rsquo;s global status and his reputation as one of the top entrepreneurs in his market.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">Read below a snippet of what George shared or watch the full podcast below.&nbsp;</p>
<p align="left">​</p>
<h3 class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">How George Azar made his name in Dubai real estate&hellip;</h3>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">In Dubai, George gained prominence at Union BancairePriv&eacute;e, a major family-owned bank. Over 14 years, he astoundingly grew the business from $60 million to $5 billion. His success lay in securing capital from major sovereigns, banks, treasuries, and large family offices, solidifying his position in the Middle Eastern finance arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left"><em>How did he do it?&nbsp;</em></p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">According to George, the key is building relationships, consistency, and hard work, day in and day out.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">George gave an example of how this strategy worked.&nbsp;</p>
<p>​George had visited a sovereign fund just 5 times in 4 years, and his colleagues advised him to give up because they believed they were never going to give him business.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>​Yet, after the 5th visit, a fax arrived, granting a $1.5 billion mandate, affirming the importance of consistency in building relationships. George saw value in understanding the culture and spending time on potentially sometimes inefficient businesses, which helped him navigate partnerships in the market.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p>​</p>
<h3>From banking to 'making bank' in the real estate industry&hellip;​</h3>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">George is now leading one of the most successful estate agency businesses on the planet, how did he get there?</p>
<p>​After George&rsquo;s banking days, he didn&rsquo;t see any further value in the market from an earning perspective. He shares how working in a private environment had always been beneficial to him, as he was able to get deals done faster, whereas if you work for the big banks, there are regulations and sometimes by the time you get to finalising a decision the deal is off the table.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">This empowered George to be agile and fast in decision-making. His main idea was to set up his own bank, but it was very costly and required a lot of funds.</p>
<p align="left">He asked his friend, &lsquo;What could I set up that looks like a bank, behaves like a bank but doesn&rsquo;t cost like a bank?&rsquo;, and the answer was real estate. So, he thought if he wanted to get into real estate, he needed a brand.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>
<p class="Paragraph SCXW54637995 BCX0" align="left">He reeled through a list of names and that&rsquo;s when he came across the name: Sotheby&rsquo;s.</p>

George Azar: How to turn $60 million into $5 billion

<h2 align="left">The podcast series where property&nbsp;<em>meets</em>&nbsp;people.</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="left"><strong>A podcast where we explore the latest trends in the real estate market and interview influential leaders, uncovering the strategies that drive success in this ever-evolving landscape.</strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="left">&nbsp;</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Our guest this episode is Dominic Agace, CEO of the renowned upmarket agency Winkworth.</strong></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Hosted by Andrew Deverell-Smith, Global CEO &amp; Founder of deverellsmith and Hintel, they explore Dominic&rsquo;s perspective on the future of the London property market, Winkworth&rsquo;s plans for growth and expansion, and the invaluable advice he has for aspiring professionals looking to make their mark in real estate.</p>
<h3><strong>Life before Winkworth</strong></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">In the journey of Dominic&rsquo;s career, he shared his initial steps were taken as a politics student at Newcastle University. It was here that he questioned where his degree in politics could take him. With curiosity, he ventured into diverse fields such as financial public relations and risk analysis. However, it was only a matter of time before his path led him to a new and intriguing domain.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dominic&rsquo;s turning point came when he found himself drawn to the world of real estate with Winkworth. This was the place where he planted his feet and embarked on a journey that would shape his career. He found the passion within his career in this family business and believed it was somewhere he could make a real impact.</p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal"><strong>What does the future hold for Winkworth?</strong></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">It&rsquo;s clear that Dominic has a distinct vision for its future. His primary goal is to maintain a multifaceted approach to the business, constantly evolving and exploring new avenues.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Key objectives include not only generating new business areas but also nurturing a robust network, preserving market share, and positioning the company as one of the top three operators in its domain. Moreover, diversification remains a crucial aspect of their strategy.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A significant move was their launch into the commercial sector last year and this year, they&rsquo;ve set their sights on venturing into the New Homes market. This expansion demonstrates their commitment to adapt and grow in an ever-changing business landscape.</p>
<h3 class="MsoNormal"><strong>What advice would you give aspiring property leaders?</strong></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Dominic insights that in the realm of business, the most valuable piece of advice one can receive is also the simplest: work hard. The individual who puts in the most effort in any room often emerges as the most successful. While the business landscape may seem intricate, at its core, it&rsquo;s a straightforward principle &ndash; hard work pays off. The more you invest in it, the greater the rewards waiting at the other end of the journey.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">He suggested to maintain the hard work, it&rsquo;s important to surround yourself with environments that keep you motivated. Remember in the world of business, hard work and the right motivating environments are you keys to unlocking exceptional results.</p>

Dominic Agace: Who's worth watching in property?

<h2 align="left">The podcast series where property&nbsp;<em>meets</em>&nbsp;people.</h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="left"><strong>A podcast where we explore the latest trends in the real estate market and interview influential leaders, uncovering the strategies that drive success in this ever-evolving landscape.</strong></p>
<h5 align="left"><strong>Our first guest is the visionary leader, Naomi Heaton - CEO at The Other House.</strong></h5>
<p class="p1" align="left">Naomi Heaton is a trailblazer in the realm of luxury hospitality and unique accommodations, consistently pushing the boundaries of what&rsquo;s possible in this dynamic industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p class="p1" align="left">Her remarkable journey has been defined by her relentless pursuit of excellence and deal-seated passion for creating exceptional living spaces.&nbsp;</p>
<p class="p1" align="left">Her work has left an indelible mark on the world of luxury accommodations, and as she continues to challenge the status quo, we can only anticipate even more awe-inspiring projects that redefine the very essence of luxury living.</p>

Naomi Heaton: Pushing the boundaries of luxury hospitality

<h3>Watch our latest episodes</h3>

<p>George Azar, CEO Sotheby's International Realty</p>

<h3>We hired entrepreneurs and put enemies into one room.</h3>

<p>​In recent times, the world has faced some challenges and uncertainties and it&rsquo;s natural to be dubious about where to build your career.</p>
<p align="start">If you are considering taking that next step or leaping into the property industry, this blog will take you through 3 of the key benefits of gaining a job in property could bring you, as well as the opportunities there are to take hold of.</p>
<ol class="ak-ol">
<li>
<h3>Stable, resilient and adaptable</h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p align="start">One of the primary drivers of the real estate industry is the demand for housing. Regardless of economic conditions, people will always need somewhere to live. The growing population further fuels this meaning the demand for housing continues to be steady.</p>
<p align="start"><strong>How is the property industry resilient?</strong></p>
<p align="start">Despite economic fluctuations, the UK property industry has displayed resilience over the years and has historically recovered from downturns and continued to grow in the long run.</p>
<p align="start">The real estate industry also adapts exceptionally well to the motives and demands of its stakeholders. An example of this is the recent growth of the rental market.</p>
<p align="start">According to The Guardian, the demand for rental homes has increased by 23%, due to more people not being able to afford to buy properties. &lsquo;The rental market is as strong as ever, which is helping to combat challenges around operations for many businesses in the property market&rsquo; &ndash; Sowgol Zarinchang, Managing Director - Way of Life.</p>
<p align="start">This stability can provide you with a sense of security and confidence in your next career decision, knowing the property industry has a strong foundation and long-term potential. There will always be a need for property professionals within the whole lifecycle, whether that&rsquo;s real estate agents, property managers or quantity surveyors.</p>
<h3 align="start">2. Diverse career paths</h3>
<p align="start">According to the British Property Federation, the real estate sector supported more than 2.6 million jobs in 2022. You won&rsquo;t find it hard to find the role that suits you as the market offers a wide range of career opportunities, allowing you to choose a path that aligns with your interests and specific skill set. From estate agents to construction managers, there are countless roles to explore.</p>
<h4 align="start"><strong>How does the property industry offer career growth?</strong></h4>
<p align="start">It&rsquo;s not just the diverse career paths that the property industry has to offer, but also the ample prospects for career growth and development. You can start your career in various entry-level roles and progress to more senior positions as you gain experience and expertise. The diverse nature of the property industry and the roles within it provides opportunities to specialise in your areas of interest and develop niche expertise.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h3 align="start">3. Lucrative financial rewards</h3>
<h4 align="start"><strong>How lucrative is the property industry?</strong></h4>
<p align="start">There is no doubt that the property industry is a lucrative one, and according to the British Property Federation, it contributes over &pound;100bn to the UK&rsquo;s economy each year. Working in the sector can be financially rewarding, with plentiful opportunities for earning a substantial income.</p>
<p align="start">Real Estate sales professionals, such as estate agents, often benefit from commissions based on the value of the properties they sell. As the demand for quality properties continues to rise, so do the property values, providing opportunities for long-term financial gains. Whether you&rsquo;re involved in property development, sales or investment, the potential for financial success in this sector is significant.</p>
<p align="start">From steady demand for housing, diverse career paths and lucrative earning potential, the property industry offers numerous reasons to be positive. So, if you&rsquo;re considering a career in the property industry, embrace them, the opportunities are waiting for you!</p>

3 reasons to start a career in property

<p>According to a survey by Linkedin, this challenge of discovering relevant job opportunities causes stress in 20% of these candidates.</p>
<p align="start">The numbers above show that although looking for a job can be a rewarding experience, full of potential opportunities and new beginnings, on the flip side it can bring with it its fair share of stress and anxiety.</p>
<p align="start">Whether you&rsquo;re looking for your first job, or are a seasoned professional seeking new challenges, managing stress during the job search is essential for maintaining your well-being and productivity.</p>
<p align="start">In light of April being Stress Awareness Month, we&rsquo;ve written this article with the hope that it will provide you with strategies to help you navigate the sometimes turbulent waters of job hunting whilst also managing your well-being.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h4 align="start"><strong>Establish a routine</strong></h4>
<p align="start">At a time of uncertainty, creating a routine for yourself will help give you a sense of structure and manage your time more efficiently. Blocking out dedicated blocks of time each day for activities such as researching job openings, networking and updating your CV. Creating this schedule will not only keep you organised but also ensure you maintain a healthy work-life balance and time to do activities you enjoy such as going to the gym and reading your favourite book.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h4 align="start"><strong>Don&rsquo;t forget about self-care</strong></h4>
<p align="start">It&rsquo;s easy to get wrapped up in your job search, but prioritising your physical and mental well-being is crucial for long-term success. Make time for activities that nourish your body and mind, whether it&rsquo;s exercise, meditation, hobbies or spending time with loved ones. Remember taking care of yourself isn&rsquo;t a luxury, it&rsquo;s a necessity.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h4 align="start"><strong>Manage your expectations - "Rome wasn&rsquo;t built in a day"</strong></h4>
<p align="start">Naturally, you&rsquo;ll feel pressure to find a job quickly, especially if you&rsquo;re unemployed or facing financial strain. However, it's essential to manage your expectations and understand that the job search process takes time. Rejections and setbacks are par for the course, but they don&rsquo;t define your worth or potential. Stay resilient, stay focused, and trust that the right opportunity will come your way in due time.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h4 align="start"><strong>Cultivate a support system</strong></h4>
<p align="start">Navigating the ups and downs of the job search alone may cause you to feel isolated. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, mentors and peers who can offer encouragement, advice and perspective. Don&rsquo;t hesitate to lean on your support system during challenging times, they are there to help you through.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<h4 align="start"><strong>Focus on what you can control</strong></h4>
<p align="start">You may feel like there are aspects within your job search that are out of your control, such as waiting to hear back from employers. Instead, focus on the things you can control such as working on your applications or researching businesses you are interested in.</p>
<p align="start">Your job search can start to feel like you're on a rollercoaster of emotions, but by implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage stress and maintain your well-being throughout the process. Remember to be patient with yourself, stay resilient in the face of challenges and keep your eyes on your goals.</p>
<p align="start">With perseverance and a positive mindset, you&rsquo;ll navigate the job search maze and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.</p>
<p align="start">​</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="start">A quick tip from Summer Pound - Principal Consultant &amp; Mental Health and Wellbeing Ambassador at deverellsmith.</p>
</blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">It's so common to feel overwhelmed at times; after all, we're only human. One crucial reminder I give myself daily is to be kind to myself&mdash;to recognise that I can't control everything and that it's okay not to feel okay. Personally, engaging in physical activity, particularly running of late, has become my go-to stress reliever. It quiets my mind and puts things into perspective, making challenges seem less daunting.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">I've yet to meet someone who regrets doing things they enjoy&mdash;whether it's a workout, reading a beloved book, spending quality time with friends and family, or simply taking time for themself.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">Here are a few strategies that have helped me navigate overwhelming moments:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">Pursue your passions and hobbies - find activities that allow your mind to switch off.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">Get moving&nbsp; - step away from screens, go outside, and let your body move!!</p>
</li>
<li>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">Break down stressors - write them down, identify what you can control, and tackle those aspects first.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="start">Don't hesitate to seek support - whether from a manager, friends, or family. Talking things through often diminishes the perceived magnitude of the problem.</p>
<p align="start">Remember, it's okay to seek help and prioritise your well-being.</p>
</li>
</ul>

<p>​In our recently released&nbsp;<a class="cc-1rn59kg" title="https://www.deverellsmith.com/hiring-for-the-future" href="https://www.deverellsmith.com/hiring-for-the-future?source=google.com">&lsquo;Hiring for the Future&rsquo;</a> report, we found that 62% of job seekers feel that finding suitable job openings is the most challenging part of their job search.</p>

5 tips to manage stress in your job search

<h3 data-renderer-start-pos="1"><strong>The much-anticipated Spring instalment of our event series, Banking on the Future, featuring none other than the Bank of England, Ballymore, Weston Homes, DDRE and Geeta Nanda, is set to return this March.</strong></h3>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="210">The event will be hosted at The May Fair Theatre and welcome one familiar and three new panel guests to the discussion. You can learn more about our panel and pre-submit your question below.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="418">&nbsp;</p>
<p id="Robert-Elder,-Senior-Economist-at-Bank-of-England" data-renderer-start-pos="420"><strong>Robert Elder, Senior Economist at Bank of England</strong></p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="471">Rob is no stranger to the Banking on the Future series and has been an admirable guest speaker at all 7 events. He brings enthusiasm, knowledge, and character to his presentation and points.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="663">Rob joined the Bank of England in 1998, and for twelve years supported the Monetary Policy Committee as an economist and then senior manager.&nbsp; Between 2010 and 2012 he represented the UK on the board of the International Monetary Fund in Washington DC. When he returned he worked in the Bank&rsquo;s press office, and most recently, supported their Financial Policy Committee by running a team monitoring developments in the UK banking sector.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="1102"><strong data-renderer-mark="true">Why you want to hear from them:</strong> He&rsquo;s an expert economist who will communicate the Bank&rsquo;s perspective on the current state of the economy and predictions for the months ahead.&nbsp;</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="1279">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="1281"><strong data-renderer-mark="true">Geeta Nanda, NED Advisor to the property sector, previously CEO of Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing</strong></p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="1384">Geeta recently retired as Chief Executive of MTVH (Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing) a leading national provider of social and affordable homes to rent and buy. Across a career of over 35 years, she has held a variety of leadership positions in the housing sector.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="1652">Geeta has served on the boards of a number of other housing organisations and PLC&rsquo;s, the National Housing Federation and is the former Chair of the G15 group of London&rsquo;s largest housing associations, which collectively provides homes to one in ten Londoners and builds a quarter of the capital&rsquo;s new homes.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="1960">Geeta is currently a Non-Executive Director of the housebuilder Barratt Redrow plc, Chair of PRS REIT plc, the UK&rsquo;s first quoted real estate investment trust to focus on high-quality new-build family homes for the private rental market and Lloyds Living pathways FPRP as well as a Trustee of Crisis the homelessness charity.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="2286">She is a national expert advisor for Homewards, the Prince of Wales&rsquo;s Homelessness initiative and an ambassador for the charity World Child Cancer.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="2435">In 2013, Geeta was awarded an OBE for achievements in social housing, and in 2021 received the &lsquo;Outstanding Individual&rsquo; award at the EG Awards.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="2580">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="2582"><strong data-renderer-mark="true">Robert Mulryan, Group Corporate Finance &amp; Investment Director</strong></p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="2645">Robert Mulryan has worked as the Corporate Finance &amp; Investment Director at Ballymore since May 2016. Prior to that, he held the position of Vice President of Emerging Markets at Morgan Stanley from June 2009 to May 2015.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="2868">At Ballymore, a developer acknowledged as a pioneer of some of Europe&rsquo;s largest regeneration projects, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the company&rsquo;s corporate finance direction, overseeing investments, and driving business growth.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3103">After 40 years in business, Ballymore is considered one of the UK and Ireland's most innovative and dynamic property developers, having completed more than 20,000 homes in the UK, and 15,000 built in Ireland.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3313">Robert Mulryan attended University College Dublin, where they obtained a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Robert also studied at EDHEC Business School, although the duration and specific focus of this program are unknown.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3532">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3534"><strong data-renderer-mark="true">Bob Weston, Chairman at Weston Homes</strong></p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3572">Bob Weston is the Chairman and Managing Director of Weston Homes. He formed Weston Homes in 1987 establishing what has now become one of the major property developers in the south east of England. Bob is a regular commentator on issues shaping housebuilding in the UK and has been working with government and policy-makers to effect change in the industry</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3930">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3932"><strong data-renderer-mark="true">Daniel Daggers, Founder - DDRE</strong></p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="3964">Daniel Daggers has dedicated the past 27 years to becoming a trailblazer in the prime and super prime real estate markets worldwide. <br>Daniel's visionary approach earned him the nickname "Mr. Super Prime" in the industry, reflecting his specialisation in properties exceeding &pound;10 million. His reputation as a forward-thinking property adviser is second to none, with a track record of high-value transactions not only in London but also across the globe.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="4419">As Daniel continues to lead DDRE Global to new heights, his unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation remains at the forefront. With a focus on leveraging emerging technologies and fostering connections, Daniel Daggers is poised to shape the future of luxury real estate for years to come.</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="4419">&nbsp;</p>
<p data-renderer-start-pos="4419"><strong>Have questions for the panel? Submit them in advance below for a chance to get answers.</strong></p>

Banking on the Future Spring 2025 - Meet the panel

<h3 class="MsoNormal" align="center">What are the market predictions for the Build to Rent hiring market?</h3>
<p align="center">Nick Hammond, Head of Build to Rent at deverellsmith, provided an overview of what trends he believes the Build to Rent sector should expect in terms of hiring, employment, talent attraction and retention. You can watch the clip below or keep scrolling to read the overview.​</p>
<div class="embeded" align="center"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wHmfoTNYOFk" width="640" height="476" frameborder="0"></iframe>​</div>
<p align="center">During the first quarter, there was a decline in transaction activity attributed to low investor confidence and an all-time high in inflation. Notably, investment and development companies experienced a significant reduction in permanent vacancies while operational companies remained active due to new site launches and natural attrition within the existing 78,717 completed BtR units. Many analysts anticipate a resurgence in global investment activity in the latter half of the year, leading to an increase in hiring demand.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" align="center">To prepare for this, deverellsmith recommends that companies promptly review their hiring strategy since more candidates, particularly at the senior level, are serving longer notice periods. Additionally, companies should prioritise retention and upskilling within their existing workforce to enhance productivity and increase loyalty ahead of the rebound. In the short term, interim or temporary contracts could enable companies to deliver goods and services despite the uncertain economic outlook.</p>

Build to Rent: An update on the hiring market

<p>​Historically, Estate Agents and sales professionals tend to have a higher staff turnover than other professional specialisms like finance and marketing. A more attractive commission structure, company culture and employee benefit packages seem to always be on offer. The grass is always greener...</p>
<p>As estate agency recruiters, we wanted to put some data behind how loyal estate agents really are. Why? To give agents in the current market an overview of where they sit, as well as provide employers tips on how to gain better employee retention.</p>
<p>We surveyed over 350 estate agents throughout March 2023 asking: How long have you been with your current employer?</p>
<p>60% of participants answered 0-3 years, which was followed by 23% of recipients answering 5+ years and just 17% answering 3-5 years. Those who answered in the 0-3 years band tended to be mainly trainees, but also consisted of a real mixture of levels including negotiators as well as up to director level.</p>
<figure><img src="https://www.deverellsmith.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBejRHUFE9PSIsImV4cCI6bnVsbCwicHVyIjoiYmxvYl9pZCJ9fQ==--1de2bc553949c8a0215e6d7270cfe3d53b0a53a3/Graph%20How%20long%20have%20you%20been%20with%20your%20employer.png" alt="A pie chart showing different percentages of how long employees have been with their employer" data-src="/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBejRHUFE9PSIsImV4cCI6bnVsbCwicHVyIjoiYmxvYl9pZCJ9fQ==--1de2bc553949c8a0215e6d7270cfe3d53b0a53a3/Graph%20How%20long%20have%20you%20been%20with%20your%20employer.png"></figure>
<p>We believe those who were at director level were likely to be a professional who had transitioned into this position from another employer as an opportunity to further progress their career. Often, we speak to jobseekers and their reason for moving is because they are unable to progress at the pace they&rsquo;d like to within their own company and competing businesses will offer prospective candidates a promotion as a way to attract talent.</p>
<p>Participants who answered 5+ years were mainly senior staff such as managers and directors. This comes as no surprise, the longer you stay with a business the more likely you are to progress into a senior member of staff. Agencies are likely to lose staff if they don&rsquo;t offer any form of progression throughout the 5 years of employment!</p>
<p>Ryan Doyle, Head of Estate Agency commented: &ldquo;We've noticed that if negotiators are able to get through their initial training and on boarding process, the next gateway of risk seems to be around 18 months... if they get beyond that, through to circa 2.5-3 years... then people tend to stay beyond the 5-year mark.</p>
<p>From the data we've received, the people who stayed beyond 5 years with their employer, were individuals who were offered 2 or 3 steps of progression across that same time frame. With very few employees staying for 5 years plus having seen zero progression in terms of job title and ownership of role.&rdquo;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re looking to progress in your career, or if you&rsquo;re a business seeking to improve retention, you can learn from our latest article on&nbsp;<span style="color: #2dc26b;"><strong><a style="color: #2dc26b;" href="https://www.deverellsmith.com/blog/2022/09/how-to-rise-through-the-ranks-in-real-estatehttps://www.deverellsmith.com/blog/2022/09/how-to-rise-through-the-ranks-in-real-estate" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-od-marked="true">how to rise through the ranks of real estate here.</a></strong></span></p>

The rise of the portfolio career: Why and when estates agents are moving jobs

<h3 class="MsoNormal">deverellsmith announces sponsorship of BTR News,&nbsp;solidifying its commitment to supporting the growth and success of the sector.</h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">deverellsmith, a leading recruitment and staffing solutions provider in the real estate industry, is delighted to announce its official<span style="color: #2dc26b;"><strong><a style="color: #2dc26b;" href="https://btrnews.co.uk/the-deverellsmith-group/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;sponsorship of BTR News</a></strong></span>, the premier source of information and insights for the rapidly growing Build to Rent sector.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As the Build to Rent market continues to flourish, deverellsmith recognises the importance of supporting industry knowledge-sharing platforms like<span style="color: #2dc26b;"><strong><a style="color: #2dc26b;" href="https://btrnews.co.uk/deverellsmith-announces-sponsorship-of-btr-news-empowering-the-btr-sector/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;BTR News</a></strong></span>. By becoming a sponsor, deverellsmith aims to contribute to the advancement and development of the sector, fostering collaboration and driving innovation within the industry.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">BTR News has gained significant recognition as the go-to platform for industry professionals, investors, developers, and stakeholders seeking the latest news, trends, and expert analysis in the Build to Rent space. Through its sponsorship, deverellsmith aims to bolster BTR News' efforts in providing a comprehensive resource for those involved in the space.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">"We are thrilled to partner with BTR News and support their invaluable contribution to the Build to Rent industry. As a recruitment specialist deeply invested in real estate, we understand the importance of staying informed and fostering knowledge exchange within the sector. BTR News aligns perfectly with our commitment to empowering professionals and businesses in this market." Nick Hammond, Head of Build to Rent, deverellsmith. "</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The sponsorship collaboration will involve a range of initiatives aimed at amplifying BTR News' reach and impact. deverellsmith will work closely with the BTR News team to develop exclusive content, industry reports, and thought leadership articles, providing expert insights and expertise to further enhance the platform's offerings.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><em>"BTR News is delighted to partner with deverellsmith as a sponsor. Their extensive knowledge and experience in the real estate recruitment space make them a natural fit for our audience. Together, we aim to provide a platform that promotes best practices, industry developments, and fosters meaningful connections within the Build to Rent community." </em></p>
<p><span style="color: #2dc26b;"><strong>-Nick Biring, Co-founder, BTR News</strong></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The sponsorship marks a significant milestone for deverellsmith, further solidifying its commitment to supporting the growth and success of the Build to Rent sector. With its extensive network of real estate professionals and deep industry expertise, deverellsmith is well-positioned to contribute to the ongoing success and expansion of BTR News.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">deverellsmith is a leading recruitment, executive search and talent solutions provider specialising in the real estate sector. With a focus on building strong connections and long-term partnerships, deverellsmith offers bespoke recruitment services, executive search, and talent advisory solutions. Leveraging its extensive network and industry expertise, deverellsmith empowers individuals and organisations in achieving their goals and driving the growth of the real estate industry.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">BTR News is the leading source of news, insights, and analysis for professionals, investors, and stakeholders in the Build to Rent sector. With a mission to provide the latest information and foster collaboration within the Build to Rent community, BTR News serves as a central platform for industry professionals to stay informed, engage in discussions, and drive innovation in the rapidly growing Build to Rent market.</p>

​deverellsmith announces sponsorship of BTR News, empowering the BTR sector

<h3>Latest insights and stories.</h3>

<p>Explore the latest trends in the real estate market, interview influential leaders, and uncover the strategies that drive success in this ever-evolving market.</p>

Listen now

Listen now

Watch our devcast highlights

Watch our devcast highlights

It’s important to surround yourself with environments that keep you motivated. Remember in the business world, hard work and the right motivating environments are key to unlocking exceptional results.

Latest insights and stories

3 reasons to start a career in property

5 tips to manage stress in your job search

Banking on the Future Spring 2025 - Meet the panel

Build to Rent: An update on the hiring market

The rise of the portfolio career: Why and when estates agents are moving jobs

deverellsmith announces sponsorship of BTR News, empowering the BTR sector

Never miss an episode. Subscribe to devcast...

Listen now

Listen now

Watch our devcast highlights

Watch our devcast highlights

It’s important to surround yourself with environments that keep you motivated. Remember in the business world, hard work and the right motivating environments are key to unlocking exceptional results.

Latest insights and stories

3 reasons to start a career in property

5 tips to manage stress in your job search

Banking on the Future Spring 2025 - Meet the panel

Build to Rent: An update on the hiring market

The rise of the portfolio career: Why and when estates agents are moving jobs

​deverellsmith announces sponsorship of BTR News, empowering the BTR sector

Never miss an episode. Subscribe to devcast...

deverellsmith announces sponsorship of BTR News, empowering the BTR sector