Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.

Key Leadership Changes at Knight Frank, Cluttons, and TDS Announced

Knight Frank has appointed Mike Knowles as its new head of lettings business development, a newly created board-level role. Cluttons has named Grainne Gilmore as head of residential sector, also a new position, while The Dispute Service (TDS) has announced that Jacqueline Starr will succeed Steve Harriott as chief executive.

Knight Frank Creates New Lettings Leadership Role

Knight Frank has introduced a new board-level position within its lettings division, appointing Mike Knowles as head of lettings business development. Knowles joins from CBRE, where he spent 12 years, most recently as head of residential agency. In his new role, Knowles will oversee Knight Frank’s Lettings Completion Solutions, Relocation and Corporate Services, and Short Lets businesses under a single leadership structure. He has also joined the Knight Frank lettings board.

Cluttons Appoints Head of Residential Sector

Cluttons has appointed Grainne Gilmore as head of residential sector, a newly created role responsible for the strategic direction of the firm’s residential business. Gilmore, who joined Cluttons four years ago as director of research and insights, will continue to lead the research function. Her previous experience includes roles as head of research at Zoopla and head of UK residential research at Knight Frank. Gilmore will work alongside Cluttons’ senior residential leadership team, including heads of residential agency, investment, valuation, advisory, and property management.

TDS Announces Chief Executive Succession

The Dispute Service (TDS) has announced that chief executive Steve Harriott will retire at the end of the year after 16 years in the role. Jacqueline Starr has been appointed chief executive designate and will take over leadership of the tenancy deposit protection provider.

These leadership changes are relevant to UK letting agents and inventory clerks, as they may influence business development, client services, and operational strategies across the residential property sector.