Property people: Helmsley Group and Harron Homes

York-based property investment and development specialist, Helmsley Group, has appointed Alexia Swift-Cookson as its new head of asset management.

Originally from Yorkshire, she joins Helmsley from Cushman & Wakefield in London, where she was a partner.

Bringing 16 years’ experience to the role, she will assist the group’s growth by managing the performance of its syndicated investment portfolio, ensuring that the properties continue to deliver strong returns for Helmsley’s network of over 800 high-net-worth investors.

Swift-Cookson said: “I’m really excited to have joined the Helmsley team. As a small business which packs a huge punch both regionally and nationally, the group’s dynamic and entrepreneurial culture really stood out to me.

“The team’s redevelopment plans, particularly around York’s Coney Street, also provide a once-in-a-career opportunity to be involved in placemaking on a large scale, delivering a transformational scheme that will benefit York city centre and beyond.”

Richard Peak, managing director of Helmsley Group, added: “Alexia joins at an opportune time for Helmsley, as we continue to seize opportunities for investment and development in the region.

“She brings a wealth of experience to the role and will be a key factor in the continued growth of our asset management division and investor network, as well as positively contributing to the development and diversification of Helmsley as a whole.

“As a business which has been developing and investing in Yorkshire for over 40 years, we’re always looking to work with those who are passionate about seeing our region thrive, making Alexia a fantastic addition to the team.”

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Following a 20-year career across a variety of industries, Jason Peel is taking on the role of engineering manager at Leeds-based housebuilder, Harron Homes Yorkshire.

With over 10 years in the housebuilder industry, as well as 20 years in the engineering industry overall, his move to Harron will allow him to bring his extensive knowledge to the company.

Peel, 46, began his diverse career over 20 years ago, in 2001, at a London-based land-surveying company.

Subsequently moving to Leicestershire, he took on a traffic management role at Leicestershire County Council.

After leaving the council, he went onto work at WYG, a civil engineering business.

He has extensive experience in the housing development business, having worked at another housebuilder company for three years prior to his new role at Harron.

Peel said: “There’s a great amount of flexibility at Harron, with a lot of opportunity to get involved in other aspects of the business.

“I was excited by the prospect of heading a new team in a company that has ambitious business plans.

“The change of environment has been really exciting, and I welcome the challenge. The technical team I work with are also just spectacular; everyone has a great mindset and a will to constantly improve.”

Technical director for Harron Homes, Jason Pritchard, said: “Jason’s track record and experience are really impressive, and we’re confident that his keen focus on his team, as well as his desire to work hard, will make him a wonderful addition to the company.”