21 July 2020
Two FirstPort employees have been selected for the Property Management 50 list, recognising the impact they’ve had on clients and customers over the last year.
Lee Richards has been recognised in the Build to Rent category, and Evans Brandford in the Rising Star category. There were 450 nominations and only 50 places, which makes their achievements even more exceptional.
The awards provide a platform for recognition and celebration for the industry – an opportunity for individuals to shine for the work they do in improving the lives of leaseholders up and down the country.
Evans Brandford, Development Manager
Evans began his career with FirstPort as a Concierge in 2016. He progressed to Head Concierge, then to Assistant Development Manager, and then to Development Manager in June 2019, which is the post he currently holds.
Evans was put forward for the award by Leaseholders, which makes it all the more special. Evans joined the development at a time it was having lots of issues, and within months he had turned it around, much to the delight of the Residents’ Association and all who lived there.
One customer commented: “I’ve lived here for 10 years and I’ve never witnessed such creativity, drive, care and concern and above all, a zeal for not just managing our block, but constantly thinking of ways to improve the experience of living here.”
Most recently Evans has been commended by residents for his set up of a ‘Residents Volunteer Care Group’ which supports those who have been self-isolating because of COVID-19. Residents commented that this demonstrated practicality, as well as his caring and thoughtful side, much appreciated by all in these unusual times.
Lee Richards, Director of Build to Rent
Lee Richards has worked for FirstPort for two years, originally joining as Head of Property Standards and more recently taking on the role of Director of Build to Rent. Lee was commended for his strong leadership skills, client relationships and his customer-focused approach, including the 13-step customer journey he has developed to enhance residents’ experiences from the moment they move in.
One client commented: I have found Lee to be very knowledgeable, advising confidently on difficult issues. He is also very in-tune with the complexities of Build to Rent and differing customer demands. He is particularly open to new ways of working and exploring opportunities to drive efficiencies across the managed portfolio.”
This month, Property Investor Today named FirstPort as one of the lead operators managing the ‘BTR Boom’. It is clear that Lee’s work to lead and develop FirstPort’s Build to Rent proposition is not only making a significant impact organisationally, but also has the potential to contribute to the development of the market across the UK.
