Savills appoints new head of office in Cheltenham

Savills has appointed Ken Dowling to head up its residential office in Cheltenham. 

Ken joins Savills from JLL, where he ran the firm’s Kensington office, covering the prime residential markets of Kensington, Holland Park, Notting Hill and Fulham. 

During his 14 years in residential property, he has worked across both sales and lettings, and has experience advising developers on new build projects. 

Dublin-born and raised, Ken first moved to Cheltenham for university, and has a long-standing relationship with the town. 

He said: "My move back to Cheltenham is very much a homecoming. It is where my family and friends live and despite moving away, I have always maintained close links here. 

"Cheltenham has incredible appeal for a broad cross-section of buyers, with education and lifestyle being particular pull-factors. The town has long been popular with Londoners and we have noticed an uptick in interest from London buyers in recent months, a trend which will fuel the already strong market."

Charles Elsmore-Wickens, head of Savills residential business in the Cotswolds, said: "Ken comes armed with an impressive track record and a breadth of experience that aligns perfectly with the Cheltenham market."

Savills Cheltenham has also announced a new head of residential development sales. Omer Basharat has been promoted to lead the team, which provides consultancy, marketing advice and support for the sale of new build developments and conversions. Omer joined Savills from Barratt Developments Plc in 2020, bringing with him more than 12 years property experience.

He said: "We have established a strong business over the last couple of years in Cheltenham. I am delighted to lead the team and continue to develop our relationships across the region."