Nikki Cole, a long-standing figure in the property tech industry, has announced her departure from Houseful after 17 years.
Sharing the news on LinkedIn, Cole reflected on her journey with the company and hinted at a new chapter ahead.
“After several years leading the Portal & Software sales teams, I recently took on a new role focusing on Alto 🧡.
“However, just a few weeks in, it was agreed that this new position didn’t align with the future needs of the business.
HANG UP MY ZPG
“So after 17 years working across Estate Agency, New Homes, Commercial, Portal & Software – from start up, to PLC and then PE-owned , it’s finally time for me to hang up my ZPG 💜 /Houseful hat and move on to new adventures 🗺️
“Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey – It’s been amazing 🪅 🫶” Cole wrote (sic).
INDUSTRY SUPPORT
Her post was met with an outpouring of support from peers and industry leaders, with nearly 70 comments at the time of writing celebrating her contributions and speculating about her next move.
Mark Witherspoon, former Chief Executive of Hometrack, lamented the news, writing: “Nikki – that’s rubbish.
“Get in touch – you’re far too good to be ‘unaligned.’”
And Kristjan Byfield, Co-Founder of The Depositary, added: “Woooooaaaah! Zoopla without Nikki!?!
“What parallel universe is this? Seriously though, you’ve been amazing, wherever you go next will be lucky to have you.”
Other industry figures echoed these sentiments, with many noting Cole’s remarkable influence on the sector.
AMAZING JOURNEY
Siȃn Hemming Metcalfe, Operations Director at Inventory Base, said: “What an amazing journey! Although our paths have never crossed it’s clear you’ve made an indelible mark.
“Have a wonderful break; I look forward to seeing what you do next!”
And Sanjay Gandhi, Managing Director of Moss Mentors, encouraged Cole to enjoy some well-earned rest, commenting: “It all happens for a reason, Nikki.
“Have a big break, rest and recharge, and come back even stronger with your blue-sky thinking. Here’s to 🥂🏝️🎄!” (sic)
SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION
A spokesperson for Houseful confirmed Cole’s departure, stating: “Alto’s Commercial Director Nikki Cole will be leaving Houseful at the end of the year.
“We would like to thank Nikki for the significant contribution she has made to the various brands at Houseful during her tenure.”
BRILLIANT AGENTS
Reflecting on her departure, Cole expressed gratitude for her time at the company: “It’s been a fantastic 17 years working for the Houseful family of brands, and I’m grateful for the brilliant agents and teams I’ve worked with along the way.
“I’ve been lucky to make some good friends and work with incredible agents and suppliers. It’s been amazing.”
RECHARGE AND EXPLORE
Looking ahead and talking to Property Soup Cole hinted at taking time to recharge and explore new opportunities.
She added: “I’m going to take some time to work out what I would like to do next… and after 17 years full-on, take a few holidays too!”
One insider tells Property Soup: “Cole’s departure marks the end of an era for Houseful, where her leadership and vision have left a lasting legacy.”
