Meet our Lettings team

Sam Shah, Branch Manager

Where do you live? I've lived in Wembley Park for two years. Before that I lived and worked in Dubai for four years.

Tell us a little about your career? I worked in property sales in Dubai and I joined Benham and Reeves in 2010, initially starting up the company's Short Lets division in Kensington before moving to Beaufort Park where I manage the branch.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I enjoy raising money for charity. In 2012, I did a skydive to raise money for premature babies. Scary but well worth it.

Raj Miah, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? I've lived in North West London all my life so I know the area well.

What led you to a career in property? I've always been interested in property so it was the obvious choice of career. I hope to have my own property portfolio very soon!

What do you enjoy most about your job? I love helping to find people a home - discovering what type of property they're looking for and finding it for them.

Rahim Velji, Lettings Negotiator

Where in London do you live? I live in the City of London close to the Barbican.

What do you like most about working in Colindale as an area? Colindale is showing signs of real growth as new property developments arrive. The area has a vibrant community with good cafes and local amenities including Brent Cross Shopping Centre and Colindale underground station which offers direct access to central London within 20 minutes.

Tell me something about your career and what key skills you now bring to your role? I spent three years working for a property company in the UAE before joining Benham and Reeves. I have a strong background in property negotiation and experience of working with people from diverse backgrounds which I feel is helpful for my role here.

What are your passions outside work? I enjoy cooking and travelling. I have travelled extensively in South East and Central Asia where I enjoyed learning to speak Japanese.

Sylvie Leslie, Lettings Coordinator

Where do you live? I live in Willesden Green.

How long have you worked in property? I've worked in property since 2007, initially as an Administrator for an estate agency and then moving to a large lettings company.

What has been the highlight of your career so far? I did voluntary work in Jamaica for nearly three years. That was an amazing experience.

Anne Benjamin, Lettings Coordinator

Where in London would you like to live? I'm pretty happy in North West London, there's always a lot going on.

What do you like most about working in Colindale as an area? Colindale is rapidly evolving with lots of new property developments arriving and there are good transport links.

How long have you worked in property? I have worked in lettings for over 10 years. My knowledge and experience allow me to provide reliable support to the team at Beaufort Park.

What are your passions outside work? I have been practising Tai Chi for over 2 years now and I have just started Yoga. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends.

Mark Wellington, Area Manager

Where do you live? I live in Kennington.

Tell us something about your career? I have worked in the lettings business for 15 years. Previously with a corporate serviced apartment provider and then joined Benham & Reeves in 2003 as Manager of City office and then now also manage Canary Wharf office after we opened it in 2009. I am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I found flats for Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd when they were in London filming - that was a pleasure!

Jeffrey Boateng, Senior Lettings Negotiator

What do you like most about Canary Wharf as an area? The properties are high specification and offer a lot of convenience for those who also work here as they are served by really good local transport connections and amenities. There is a buzz here day and night which really appeals to our tenants.

What key skills do you bring to your role? I have worked in the property industry for over 5 years and linking people with the right property is my passion. I like to go above and beyond for clients and deliver a great customer experience so its more than just a job for me.

What are your passions outside work? I love playing and watching various sports and supporting the young community where I live, helping with musical events and other social programmes.

Tan Pham, Lettings Negotiator

What part of London do you live in? Deptford SE8

What do you like most about the properties in Canary Wharf? The Docklands have undergone huge regeneration over the last 15 years providing a great lifestyle for today's working professionals. People here generally work longer hours so need every convenience on their doorstep and the modern residential blocks here offer high specification living and facilities, many with amazing views over the River Thames and beyond.

Tell me something about your career? I have worked in the property industry for five years in a variety of roles from sales, lettings and buy to let property investment.

What do you like to do in your leisure time? I enjoy Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Yoga

Mark Wellington, Area Manager

Where do you live? I live in Kennington.

Tell us something about your career? I have worked in the lettings business for 15 years. Previously with a corporate serviced apartment provider and then joined Benham & Reeves in 2003 as Manager of City office and then now also manage Canary Wharf office after we opened it in 2009. I am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I found flats for Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd when they were in London filming - that was a pleasure!

Rosie Dimitrova, Lettings Coordinator

Where do you live? I've lived in Essex for 12 years.

How long have you worked for Benham and Reeves? I joined the company in 2005 and I enjoy my work as Administrator. I am a member of ARLA Propertymark with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification. It's crazy busy here but I do love it!

And an interesting fact about yourself? I love travelling and am fluent in three languages which comes in very handy with international landlords and tenants.

Deimante Nacyte, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? South East London

What do you like most about the properties in the City area? How bright and flawless the properties are. I love that each property brags its own view of the city.

Tell me something about your career? I have a degree in sociology and working in the property sector enables me to combine all my interests and meet some very interesting people from all walks of life.

What are your passions outside of work? I love reading and exercising. I am also a vegetarian so I love browsing through internet/books for recipes.

Nick Hubbard, Branch Manager

Where do you live? I've lived in Ealing all my life.

Tell us about your career? I've worked in lettings since I was 19 and am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification. I've been with Benham and Reeves since 2006 and was previously Manager of the Knightsbridge office. Before that I was a Negotiator at the Kensington office.

Tell us something interesting about yourself? I once spent a year travelling around SE Asia, Australasia, the USA and Mexico where I met some very interesting people and learnt a lot about different cultures, it was a great life experience.

Greta Andrijauskaite, Junior Negotiator

What attracted you to this Junior Negotiator role? To progress my career in the property industry further and, with so many new developments in the area, Ealing is a great place to live and work.

What are your key skills that you are bringing to this role? I have years of customer service experience, allowing me to efficiently communicate with tenants and landlords and negotiate deals.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work for relaxation and leisure? I love baking, reading, and travelling. I also enjoy nature walks within the peak district.

Glen Neligan, Director

Glen joined Benham and Reeves initially becoming the top negotiator in the company, then swiftly moving on to become Area Manager for West London before becoming a board Director.

Glen has been instrumental in driving forward our expansion in West London, helping to build both our lettings and sales business. With a clear policy for giving honest and transparent advice and drawing on his 20 years' experience in London property with strong links to the footballing world, he works closely with clients, investors and developers to creatively maximise their investments.

Wesley Ramsay, Senior Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? Wimbledon.

Tell me something about your career? I have been in the property industry since 2016 and have a real passion for real estate. I have since gained an ARLA Propertymark qualification to build my knowledge and success in my career.

What is your favourite local Hammersmith bar or café? The Blue Boat in Hammersmith is my favourite pub as it has a great atmosphere at the weekend.

What are your passions outside of work? I am very passionate about sport, especially rugby so I spend my free time watching rugby games with my friends.

Haruka Mori, Property Manager, Japan Desk

What part of London do you like best? I like Hammersmith as its very friendly and its right by the River and lots of good shops.

What skills do you bring to your role? I have lots of experience of the international property market working as an Administrator for a Japanese asset management company and as a brokerage project manager for an investment realtor. I’m organised and really enjoy helping our clients look after their tenants and properties in London.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? I love to cook and enjoy the outdoors, keeping fit is important.

Daniel Chang, Executive Assistant to Marc von Grundherr

Where in London do you live? North East London which is really convenient for getting into the city quickly.

Tell me something about your career: Having started my property career some years ago in the management department at Benham and Reeves, I have gained invaluable experience and transferable skills that fit well with my role now as an Executive Assistant to our Lettings Director.

What skills do you bring to your role? I’m organised with a keen eye for detail and am flexible in my approach which helps with the many demands of my job.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? I enjoy exploring London taking in the culture and beautiful architecture, it’s a great city to live and work in.

Dele Lawal, Branch Manager

Where in London do you live? North London at the moment.

What do you like most about working in Hampstead as an area? Properties in Hampstead have a wealth of character and a distinctive charm, unlike anywhere else in London. I enjoy the quaint village lifestyle, while being so close to central London.

Tell me something about your career and what key skills you now bring to your role? Although I graduated from University as an Aerospace Engineer, I discovered my true calling when I did a stint as a Property Negotiator during my gap year. Since then I have gained good career experience working in the residential lettings sector for several years where I have developed a good understanding of the property sector and how it ticks.

Abbie White, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you currently live? North West London which I really like.

What do you like most about Hampstead? Being originally from rural Nottinghamshire, I naturally gravitate towards areas that have a village-like ambience and vibe. Hampstead is one of London’s best examples of this and it’s so close to central London.

Tell me a little about your property career Having initially moved to London in order to pursue a career in Performing Arts, I subsequently developed a keen interest in the London property scene. After over two years’ experience working in West Hampstead, Highgate, Muswell Hill, Kentish Town and Cricklewood, I think Hampstead is by far the best area I have worked in.

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? Outside work I love to keep fit and socialise with friends, the majority of whom are still in the performing arts industry. Frequent trips home to see my family are also important as they allow me to indulge my passion for horse riding around the idyllic Nottinghamshire countryside.

Desiree Leith, Lettings Administrator

Tell me something about your career so far, what skills do you bring to your new role here? I have worked in the property industry for 5 years, first as a reservations manager for serviced apartments before moving on to property management and lettings administration 2 years ago. I am friendly and have a keen eye for detail. Making sure our new lets and renewals are done smoothly and efficiently is important to me as well as providing support to the lettings team at Hampstead who I enjoy working with.

Is there something about working in Hampstead that you really enjoy? Hampstead has a strong family-friendly atmosphere and there are some lovely artisan coffee shops and good places to eat so it’s a very nice location to work in.

What do you like to do in your spare time? I love catching up with family and friends and my other passions are dance (I’m currently learning Salsa) and singing in a London choir.

Georgia Bell, Compliance Officer

What does your day to day? My role entails monitoring and mitigating compliance risk by ensuring we observe appropriate regulatory and legal requirements in all aspects of our business.

What are your key skills and what do you like most about your role? I find that an organised approach and a forensic attention to detail are vital attributes in my job. It’s not uncommon for me to reinvestigate a document that has already been double or triple checked! My work also overlaps with many other parts of the company, so I get to work collaborate with other employees which I really enjoy.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes is a weekly passion. I also take plenty of opportunities to travel.

Dinesh Kumar, Serviced Apartment Manager

Where do you live? I've lived in East London for the last couple of years.

Tell us something about your career? I worked in finance for four years before joining Benham and Reeves where I have been overseeing the Short Lets department since 2011. 

And an interesting fact about yourself? I have an Engineering Degree from India and an MBA from Manchester but I love working in property and seeing new buildings go up in London which is exciting.

Shamima Begum, PA to Managing Director, Anita Mehra

Where do you live? I live in Crouch End, North London where the Victorian architecture is so beautiful.

What do you like most about working in property? London has a rich history and I feel this is really reflected in the properties it has to offer. There are so many different types of property too which you don't get in all parts of the world. I love the cobbled streets and mews that can be found in the backwaters of London.

What is your favourite local cafe or bar? I love my cocktails, Alice House in West Hampstead is a hidden gem. The cocktails are amazing and staff are super friendly.

What are your passions outside work? Keeping fit and healthy is very important to me and I love cooking, particularly experimenting with different recipes.

Ivan Hrissimov, Branch Manager

Where do you live? I've lived in Enfield for five years.

How long have you worked for Benham and Reeves? I joined the company in 2007, starting as a negotiator, moving onto Senior Negotiator and now Branch Manager. I am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification.

And something interesting about yourself? Not sure if this qualifies, but I love all kinds of sport!

Eren Ersoy, Junior Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? I live in North London.

Tell me something about your career? I started my working life in finance but I’ve always had a keen interest in real estate. I joined Benham and Reeves because of their long heritage as property specialists and I am really enjoying it.

What are your passions outside of work? I love aquatics, I have kept fish ever since I was a child and bigger I get, the bigger my fish tanks get!

Di Gong, Branch Manager

Describe yourself in three words: Patient, energetic, technological.

What do you like to do at the weekend? I love gadgets so I'll probably be playing with some of my favourites. I also love travelling, especially discovering new places. I like to cook and play football. I like variety.

If you could live anywhere in London, where would it be? I really like mansion blocks and period conversions so I would pick St Johns Wood or Hampstead as these are more villagey locations.

Saman Safdari, Senior Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? I live in Highgate.

What do you like most about the properties around Hyde Park? Many of the homes are traditional period properties, luxurious and very elegant. But we also have plenty of new residential developments too so there is a really interesting mix.

What do you enjoy most about your job? I love being able to use my knowledge of the local area to help clients find their perfect home.

What is your favourite local Hyde Park café or bar? My favourite local cafe is actually in Hyde Park itself - the Dell, next to the Serpentine.

What are your passions outside work? I love keeping fit but my passions are contact sports such as playing football, rugby and tennis.

Jade Nelson, Lettings Coordinator

Describe yourself in three words: Adventurous, enthusiastic, cheerful.

If you could live anywhere in London, where would it be? I've lived in East London all my life and I love it. There's so much to do - a day out in Brick Lane taking in the market stalls; walking through Victoria Park, shopping at Box Park and nights out in Shoreditch - you're spoilt for choice.

How do you describe your job to friends? Stimulating and rewarding. Paying attention to detail is essential in my job and I really enjoy helping our tenants with all those little details to ensure that the process of moving into their new home goes as smoothly as possible.

Glen Neligan, Director

Glen joined Benham and Reeves initially becoming the top negotiator in the company, then swiftly moving on to become Area Manager for West London before becoming a board Director.

Glen has been instrumental in driving forward our expansion in West London, helping to build both our lettings and sales business. With a clear policy for giving honest and transparent advice and drawing on his 20 years' experience in London property with strong links to the footballing world, he works closely with clients, investors and developers to creatively maximise their investments.

Giuseppe Figlioli, Assistant Branch Manager

What do you like most about the properties at Imperial Wharf & Fulham? Local properties in SW6 are near the River and convenient for reaching the best parts of London. It’s really homely here and yet very central so attracts families and corporates.

Tell me something about your career? I love working in property lettings, helping applicants to find their dream rental home and making sure our landlords get the best quality tenants. It’s very rewarding and I never get tired of seeing beautiful properties. Some may find negotiating stressful but I really enjoy the process so everyone is happy with their property choice.

What is your favourite local place to eat or drink? I love Italian food especially Pizza so and I am a frequent visitor of Pizzeria Santa Maria in Fulham as they serve Oddonos ice cream and I highly recommend hazelnut and pistachio flavour!

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? I’m into kitesurfing and anything to do with boats, sea and sand! I also enjoy travelling and walking my dog listening to piano music and jazz.

Helen Ramsay, Senior Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? Kingston Upon Thames

What do you like most about the properties in Fulham? The modern properties in Fulham are exceptional with ultramodern finishes, many new homes taking in views over the River Thames.

Tell me something about your career? I am originally from South Africa and have been doing estate agency since 2006 starting off in Sales. I moved over to lettings, I am very passionate about my career and have stayed in the industry since my move to London in 2016.

What is your favourite local Fulham café or bar? The Waterside is my favourite purely for the excellent position it is located on the river front and the views are spectacular.

What are your passions outside work? Gym, walking, holidays, beachside resorts preferably, shopping and most of all spending time with my family.

Fiona Wong, PA to Glen Neligan and Lettings Coordinator

Where in London do you live? I live in North West London.

What do you like most about working in Fulham? I love the riverside location, the local parks and the bustling cafes and restaurants. There is a great mix of properties too - from smart, modern developments to beautiful Victorian properties.

Tell me something about your key skills: Having worked in the property industry for several years, I have good communication skills and enjoy meeting clients. I am also methodical and well organised - essential skills for this busy and varied role.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? I love travelling and spending time with family and friends.

Glen Neligan, Director

Glen joined Benham and Reeves initially becoming the top negotiator in the company, then swiftly moving on to become Area Manager for West London before becoming a board Director.

Glen has been instrumental in driving forward our expansion in West London, helping to build both our lettings and sales business. With a clear policy for giving honest and transparent advice and drawing on his 20 years' experience in London property with strong links to the footballing world, he works closely with clients, investors and developers to creatively maximise their investments.

Caroline de Havillande, Branch Manager

Where do you currently live? I am fortunate enough to live in the heart of South Kensington, a neighbourhood to which I have a lifelong attachment.

What do you like most about working in the Kensington area? The sense of achievement that comes with matching people with their dream property never grows stale. This is particularly true of Kensington, where stunning architecture is complemented by exquisite restaurants, world-class retail outlets and places of cultural interest.

Tell me a little about your property career A Londoner born and bred, I was educated in Kensington and naturally gravitated towards its uniquely exclusive property market. I have 24 years of solid residential lettings and sales experience working in the borough and continue to find the task of locating the right property for my discerning clients tremendously rewarding.

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? I love international travel, but when at home, I like nothing better than to dine at my favourite Kensington restaurant, Ottoemezzo. I also have a keen interest in fitness and nutrition.

Cameron Kruger, Lettings Negotiator

What do you like most about the Kensington area? A well-established café culture, world-renowned fashion outlets and some of London’s best examples Victorian and Georgian architecture are all within walking distance from each other. From grand museums to elegant green spaces: there’s something for everyone.

What do you enjoy most about your job? For me, finding someone their perfect home is a task that never fails to excite and inspire me. I get to connect with many different people from various walks of life and each one has a story to tell!

What are your passions outside work? I love to dine out as it provides inspiration for the tasty dishes that I create at home in my kitchen. Finding time to meditate is a vital part of my life and as a whiskey aficionado, I can often be found discussing philosophy with my brother over a glass or two of single malt.

Veronica Souza, Lettings Administrator

Where do you live? I live in North London

What do you like most about London properties? London has some of the most stunning properties and some buildings showcase stucco architecture at its best. There is a lot of really innovative modern design too.

Tell me something about your career?I have built a solid career working front facing and back office within the property sector. I love interacting with tenants and landlords and providing the best service I can.
What is your favourite local café or bar? Café Concerto is a fun place. The Ivy and the Whole Foods Market are worth a visit.

What are your passions outside work? I like going to the cinema, dining with friends, exercising and taking long walks with my dog.

Nick Hubbard, Branch Manager

Where do you live? I've lived in Ealing all my life.

Tell us about your career? I've worked in lettings since I was 19 and am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification. I've been with Benham and Reeves since 2006 and was previously Manager of the Knightsbridge office. Before that I was a Negotiator at the Kensington office.

Tell us something interesting about yourself? I once spent a year travelling around SE Asia, Australasia, the USA and Mexico where I met some very interesting people and learnt a lot about different cultures, it was a great life experience.

George Gheorghita, Assistant Manager

Where in London do you live? I currently live in Chiswick, W4.

What do you like most about working in Kew as an area?I enjoy the country lifestyle and the selection of independent shops and cafes in the area. I love fact that there are plenty of open green spaces around, including the world-famous Royal Botanic Gardens.

Tell me something about your career and what key skills you now bring to your role? I have worked in residential lettings for the last couple of years. I am passionate about the sector, and am excited to bring my communication and service delivery skills to this role.

What are your passions outside work? I enjoy playing football, horse riding, travelling and classical concerts.

Lily Busby, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you currently live? I’m enjoying living in West London at the moment, there is always lots to do and see here.

What do you like most about the Kew area? As an area, Kew is so much more than just the Botanical Gardens it’s most known for. There is a strong community here and lots of different kinds of properties. There are also some lovely restaurants and cafes here and in Brentford too, which has undergone a lot of transformation in the past 5 years.

Tell me a little about your property career? I have worked in residential lettings in West and South West London for the last couple of years. I love working in the property industry and really enjoy helping tenants find their perfect rental home.

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? I enjoy fine dining and travelling.

Lisa-Jane Stratton, Branch Manager

Where do you live? I was born in the UK and raised in England and the US. I have  lived in Chelsea for several years.

Tell us about your career? Over the past 25 years, I've been involved in the buying, selling and renting of residential properties and marketing of commercial premises internationally. Earlier in my career, I worked for the NHS, helping to secure hospital re-development funding, and also helped to launch The London Aquarium. I have been with Benham and Reeves since 2009 and am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification.

And something interesting about yourself? In 1990 I was named a 'Woman of Tomorrow' finalist by Cosmopolitan Magazine UK and in 1997 was nominated as a 'Woman to Watch' for my role in delivering the £150m London Aquarium. I really enjoy working in property too.

Francesca Moralis, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? I live in Bermondsey, near Tower Bridge and the glittering Shard.

What do you like most about the properties in Knightsbridge? The unique architecture and style of the red brick mansion buildings.

Tell me something about your career? I started working in the property sector in 2015. Life as an estate agent has been extremely fun and I always strive to provide the best possible service with a smile.

What is your favourite local Knightsbridge café or bar? If you want to have the unforgettable experience of ice cream made instantly from liquid nitrogen, you must go to Four Winters.

What are your passions outside work? I enjoy living a healthy lifestyle by regularly attending fitness classes and following a balanced diet. I also love travelling and meeting new people from around the world.

Thuraya Al-Haidari, Lettings Coordinator

Where do you live? I've lived in Fulham for 25 years.

How long have you worked in property? I worked for a Mayfair estate agency for four and a half years and joined Benham and Reeves in 2011 as a Lettings Administrator at the Hampstead branch then I moved in 2012 to the Highgate branch. I am now a member of ARLA Propertymark.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I speak Arabic which is handy sometimes because there are a lot of buy-to-let investors who appreciate it when I can talk to them in their own language.

Sarah Edwards, Branch Manager

Where do you live?  I live in Tooting now but before that I lived in Fulham.

Tell us about your career?  I have a law degree from the University of Kent and having worked at the Canary Wharf branch of Benham and Reeves for four years, I am excited about being involved with the regeneration at Nine Elms that is transforming the area into a vibrant riverside community.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I'm a very keen Chelsea fan.

Kyle Matthews, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? Earlsfield

Tell me something about your career? I once worked in banking and did voluntary policing for two years but property is my passion and I’ve definitely found my home in it.

What are your passions outside of work? Theatre, galleries and travelling.

Veronica Souza, Lettings Administrator

Where do you live? I live in North London

What do you like most about London properties? London has some of the most stunning properties and some buildings showcase stucco architecture at its best. There is a lot of really innovative modern design too.

Tell me something about your career?I have built a solid career working front facing and back office within the property sector. I love interacting with tenants and landlords and providing the best service I can.
What is your favourite local café or bar? Café Concerto is a fun place. The Ivy and the Whole Foods Market are worth a visit.

What are your passions outside work? I like going to the cinema, dining with friends, exercising and taking long walks with my dog.

Yoshi Tsuji, Manager

Where in London do you live? I live in Richmond.

Tell me something about your career: After several years working in recruitment in Tokyo, I moved to the UK in 2001 to study for a Masters degree.  After graduating, I began my career in the property industry, becoming a lettings negotiator for a Japanese-owned agency.  I progressed with the firm, working in central London and eventually managing six branches.

What skills do you bring to your role? I have extensive experience of the corporate lettings market in London, in particular working with Japanese corporate clients.   I am also a member of ARLA Propertymark.  This expertise is invaluable in my role heading the Japanese desk of Benham and Reeves dedicated corporate services department.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? I love running in Richmond Park and usually try and do a 12k run at the weekend.

Tamae Nakahara, Property Manager

What part of London do you like best? I really like central London and all the beautiful Victorian terraces, they are stunning!

What skills do you bring to your role? Born in the UK and having lived in Japan for many years, I have good cross-cultural skills and my architecture degree has really helped me understand the way the property sector in the UK works. I like people and really enjoying providing good customer service to Japanese tenants and our landlords.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? I love to travel, I have so far visited 100 cities of the world and plan many more.

Rinako Tanaka, Property Manager, Japan Desk

Tell me something about your career I graduated from a UK university with an MA in Town and Regional Planning and have a keen interest in cities and architecture.

What skills do you bring to your role? Day to day, I like to co-ordinate the management enquiries coming in to our busy Japan desk and providing helpful support to our Japanese tenants living and working in London. Keeping tenants and landlords happy is my passion.

What do you enjoy doing outside work? I love to swim for relaxation.

Mark Wellington, Area Manager

Where do you live? I live in Kennington.

Tell us something about your career? I have worked in the lettings business for 15 years. Previously with a corporate serviced apartment provider and then joined Benham & Reeves in 2003 as Manager of City office and then now also manage Canary Wharf office after we opened it in 2009. I am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I found flats for Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd when they were in London filming - that was a pleasure!

Kaan Danis, Assistant Branch Manager

What do you like most about working in the Surrey Quays area? I like the variety of things to do in the area: the nearby leisure park has a cinema and bowling alley, some good restaurants, the Surrey Docks Farm which is very popular with young families and the Surrey Quays Shopping Centre which has a good mix of shops.

Tell me a little about your property career? I have been working in the property industry since 2013 and am proud to have been shortlisted for 3 property awards over the years. I also have a level 3 qualification in residential lettings and property management which helps me with the professional side of my job and I enjoy working with people which enables me to use my social skills

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? I enjoy simple pleasures so family time is something I’m very passionate about. I enjoy family meals around the table and to relax in front of the TV with a good movie and a cup of tea!

Kelechi Beyioku, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you currently call home? South London at the moment.

What do you like most about working in the Surrey Quays area? Most amenities are within a short walk from your doorstep. These range from delicious street cuisine outlets to a multi-screen cinema complex and the Hollywood Bowl which is a local favourite.

Tell me a little about your property career? Since 2018, when I started work in the property industry as a negotiator, I have been constantly amazed by the way the property landscape in Surrey Quays has improved. To be able to contribute to this growth by helping tenants secure the right rental property and keeping landlords happy too, is something that continues to motivate me.

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? Fitness is important to me, so gym sessions are a source of both stimulation and relaxation. If I have one indulgence, it would have to be for some good quality Swiss chocolate.

Maria Farhana, Lettings Coordinator

Where in London do you live? I live in East London.

Why do you like working in Surrey Quays? I'm fascinated by how Surrey Quays is developing; there are some great-value property developments here now which is really drawing in new people who may not have been familiar with the area before.

Tell me something about your career and what skills you bring to your role I have more than a decade of property experience and previously worked in an estate agency lettings team. I love the property scene and am quite a sociable character who enjoys assisting clients and colleagues in any way that I can.

What are your passions outside work? I try to keep fit so most days you'll find me in the gym after work.

Mark Wellington, Area Manager

Where do you live? I live in Kennington.

Tell us something about your career? I have worked in the lettings business for 15 years. Previously with a corporate serviced apartment provider and then joined Benham & Reeves in 2003 as Manager of City office and then now also manage Canary Wharf office after we opened it in 2009. I am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I found flats for Gwyneth Paltrow and Ashley Judd when they were in London filming - that was a pleasure!

Simon Sobeh, Assistant Manager

Where do you live? I've lived in Battersea for seven years.

How long have you worked for Benham and Reeves? I joined the company in 2011 and  I am ARLA Propertymark qualified with the NAEA (NFOPP) qualification. The City is a great place to do business, I really enjoy helping people find homes they will enjoy renting.

And an interesting fact about yourself? I used to be a fitness instructor and have qualifications in weight loss, nutrition and basic physiotherapy.

Krystal Richards, Senior Lettings Negotiator

Where do you live? I've lived in Bermondsey for many years, it's near to central London and has a good mix of people.

Tell us something about your career? I studied Business Management at UEL University and after graduating decided that I would like to pursue a career in property. I love my job at Benham and Reeves and I work with a great team of people which is an added bonus.

What interests do you have outside work? I love interior design and seeing how properties can be improved. I also love running and keeping fit. 

Di Gong, Branch Manager

Describe yourself in three words: Patient, energetic, technological.

What do you like to do at the weekend? I love gadgets so I'll probably be playing with some of my favourites. I also love travelling, especially discovering new places. I like to cook and play football. I like variety.

If you could live anywhere in London, where would it be? I really like mansion blocks and period conversions so I would pick St Johns Wood or Hampstead as these are more villagey locations.

Cody Choi, Lettings Negotiator

Where do you currently live? I’m living in North London as it offers a short commute into central London.

What do you like most about working in the White City area? Well, who wouldn’t appreciate Westfield London on their doorstep, so many great places to shop and eat and its open until late!

Tell me a little about your property career? I’m an experienced fine art photographer and this has taken me into all kinds of beautiful homes and places over the years. Getting into a property career seemed like a natural progression as I love London, meeting people and I’m a good negotiator.

What are your passions outside work and how do you relax? I used to be a professional dancer and once toured the world performing in Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake. I have a huge passion for art and enjoy watching movies, karaoke, travel and taking part in lots of different types sport.

Shaun Tan, Manager

Where do you live? I am Malaysian Chinese and moved to the UK some years ago and at the moment, I live in Surrey, close to the river and surrounded by beautiful countryside.

What do you like most about Woolwich? Woolwich is well connected to both of London's financial hubs and the area has a good mix of modern architecture and carefully restored Grade II listed buildings. Royal Arsenal Riverside is a pivotal part of local life with commanding views of the Thames. It has a strong community spirit and is surrounded by great amenities so it’s a great place to live and to work.

What are your passions outside work? My true passion is cars and racing. Back in Malaysia I used to compete in the 12 hour Endurance Race in Sepang. I was also a team manager for the Bridgestone racing team. I also love getting out with the family at weekends.