Michael Steel launches new division
A YORKSHIRE property consultants is expanding at a time when many others are reducing their headcount.
Michael Steel & Co Property Consultants has launched a sister operation to take advantage of the rising number of businesses which are failing in the wake of the credit crunch.
Michael Steel & Co (Plant & Machinery) has been established to advise private clients and insolvency practitioners on the value and disposal of none property-related business assets.
The operation is being headed by Mark Hodgson, a plant and machinery surveyor who has joined the company from Boultons.
Andrew Steel, who founded Leeds-based Michael Steel & Co with Alec Michael in 2004, said the company was planning to expand the plant and machinery team over the coming months.
Mr Steel said: “To provide maximum services in this area at this time is a no-brainer. With Mark on the plant and machinery side we can offer a wide range of services to a bigger cross-section of insolvency practitioners.”
He said Michael Steel & Co would now provide a “cross section of comprehensive asset valuation and disposal services”.
The Michael Steel team (l-r): Alec Michael, Andrew Backhouse, Andrew Steel, Mark Hodgson and Richard Barker
The company’s established property team, which also employs Andrew Backhouse, and three support staff, is to be boosted with the arrival of Richard Barker, formerly of Sanderson Weatherall and most recently Colliers CRE.
Mr Steel added: “There are a number of firms like ours that I think can differentiate themselves. We can approach instructions from a commercial aspect.”
The plant and machinery division will share the company’s offices in East Parade, Leeds.
Michael Steel & Co advises clients across the UK including property companies and practices including accountants, banks and law firms. Mr Steel and Mr Michael have 30 years experience in the commercial and industrial property market.
