Two new directors join the Halls board to support continued growth

Two new directors have been appointed to the board of Shrewsbury-based Halls, one of the UK’s leading independent firms of estate agents, chartered surveyors, auctioneers and valuers, to support the company’s growth plans.

Jon Murgatroyd steps up from operations manager and company secretary to become commercial director and Anne-Marie Brettell becomes a director whilst continuing her role as head of professional valuations and infrastructure in the company’s rural department.

In a further change, Andrea Llewellyn-Bell adds company secretary to her role as human resources manager.

They join chairman Allen Gittins, managing director Jon Quinn and fellow directors James F. Evans, based in Welshpool and Sarah Hulland, based in Kidderminster, on the board.

Guy Bielby steps down as a director after many years’ service but remains with the company as senior area valuer, supporting the network of 10 offices across Shropshire, Worcestershire and Mid Wales. The company added a new Telford office to the network last month.

“Jon Murgatroyd has vast experience and a proven track record in leadership roles with much larger companies than Halls which will help us significantly in formulating and implementing our strategic initiatives,” said Mr Quinn.

“His pedigree at board level will enable us to ensure Halls is at the vanguard of all the disciplines we operate within.

“Anne-Marie has excelled within our rural department and will bring with her a fresh and exciting perspective to the running and development of the company. We very much look forward to her enthusiasm and experience having a positive bearing on future board discussions.”

Mr Quinn paid tribute to Mr Bielby’s contribution to the company and board. “We appreciate Guy’s dedication to Halls and are fortunate that he has agreed to continue to impart the wisdom and guidance gained from his many years’ service within the property industry,” he said. “There is no substitute for experience.”

Mr Murgatroyd joined Halls in May last year, having gained 40 years’ experience working across multiple business sectors. He thanked the board for its support and confidence in appointing him as a director.

“Halls has huge potential and these are exciting times with lots of changes and opportunities,” he said. “The regional strength of the brand is exceptional, the diversity of the services offered is unique and the potential and commitment of staff is an exciting resource to tap into.

“I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of this exciting journey to grow the business for the benefit of everyone employed by Halls.”

Anne-Marie said: “When I joined the company six years ago, it was my ambition to become a director and I am very honoured and proud that my hard work has been recognised and rewarded.

“I will be looking to help drive forward the rural department particularly and to contribute to strategically growing the whole company. We want to be at the forefront of the industry and the ‘go to’ place for the full range of services that the company provides.

“Halls is a great company to work for and our talented staff are motivated because they feel appreciated.”