John Halman, chairman of estate agency Gascoigne Halman has announced his retirement as of the end of June.
His departure brings to a close a career spanning more than 50 years.
Since its founding in Wilmslow in 1990, Gascoigne Halman has expanded to 23 branches serving communities across Cheshire, the High Peak and South Manchester.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the industry, John Halman was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Best Estate Agency Awards. His departure marks the end of an era for both Gascoigne Halman and the wider property sector.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
Reflecting on his career, he says: “I am proud of everything we have achieved and the fantastic team of property professionals who represent Gascoigne Halman today. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in the property industry, especially mentoring colleagues and supporting their progression from junior roles into senior leadership positions.
“As the property industry has evolved through technological innovations, Gascoigne Halman has always adapted and grown to meet changing customer expectations. I am particularly proud that, while embracing technology, we have always remained focused on what defines a reputable estate agency: great people and a strong commitment to customer service.
‘I am confident that the business is in the hands of a strong leadership team who will continue to serve the needs of buyers, sellers and landlords across the region, while upholding the values of honesty, integrity and trust on which Gascoigne Halman was built.”
With his mentorship highly valued across the business, Halman will continue to support Gascoigne Halman in a consultancy role. He will be succeeded by director Andrew Buckley, who has been promoted to regional director. Buckley will continue to work closely with fellow directors Rebecca Whitehead and Phillip Diggle.
LOOKING BACK
Halman began his career in November 1973 with JR Bridgford and Sons, later known as Bridgfords.
He was recognised for his leadership qualities at an early age, becoming a branch manager at just 24 and appointed partner at the age of 27. During his time there he played a pivotal role in the sale of the partnership to Baristow Eves Plc in 1986, which was subsequently acquired by Hambros Bank and became Hambro Countrywide. John left the business in 1989 to establish his own estate agency, Gascoigne Halman.
In 1990 Gascoigne Halman opened offices in Wilmslow and Prestbury in the golden triangle of Cheshire; Hale followed later in the first year.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
The brand became known for delivering a high level of customer service and Gascoigne Halman established itself as one of the region’s most respected property specialists.
By 2015 Gascoigne Halman had expanded to 18 offices across Cheshire and South Manchester at which point, John sold the controlling interest to Connells Group Limited, with the senior management team retaining a minority shareholding.
Passionate about the brand he had created and the strong team he had built, Halman remained at the helm, driving further expansion and growth through a combination of strategic acquisitions and new office openings to become one of the Connells Groups most successful brands. Today, Gascoigne Halman boasts 23 offices across Cheshire, the High Peak and Manchester with specialist teams in sales, lettings, new homes and mortgages.
