The Richard Prestwich Interview

We chat with Richard Prestwich of Savills, to discuss the park industry, his role, and what he likes to do when not working.

Hi Richard, thank you for taking part in the interview. Can you tell us a bit about your journey into the park industry?

I had never planned to work in the holiday park industry. I spent most of my youth and young adult life abroad, following in my parents’ footsteps around the globe due to my father’s career in the oil industry. Like many professionals I’ve met, I stumbled into the industry by mistake. Approximately 20 years ago, I was fortunate enough to land a marketing manager role at the Chartered Surveyors firm Charles F Jones & Son LLP, which specialised in caravan parks. At the time, I saw the role as a stepping stone to wider opportunities. Fortunately, the head of the agency noticed my aptitude for park sales and trained me in valuing and selling parks. I’m pleased to say that one thing led to another, and in 2010 I became a partner at CFJ. Some four years later, we joined the Savills Leisure and Trading team.

What motivated you to pursue a career in property, and how did you over come the challenges you faced along the way?

I’ve found that in order to succeed in the property profession, you need to stay curious and have a passion for your chosen industry. I like to think I embody both of these qualities. I was determined to become qualified, completing much of my training and courses in my own free time. I am very grateful to my family for their understanding and support over the many years it took me to become Chartered.

Tell me about your role?

With over 500 park sales under my belt, I am now a Director at Savills, leading an agency team out of the Chester office. My primary role involves buying and selling holiday and residential parks, and since joining Savills, this has expanded to include marinas, golf courses, visitor attractions, and other leisure and trading properties. We have one of the largest leisure property teams in the UK.

Where do you like to holiday?

My wife is Portuguese, so we have a place there and spend a good deal of time in Portugal. Fortunately, I love it there, so it’s never burdensome going back to the same place. I also spend a lot of time in North Wales and the Lakes, where I enjoy the great outdoors with my family and Golden Retriever. I haven’t lost the bug for global travel and love a good city break or to explore somewhere new.

What do you find the most rewarding aspect of your role?

I am a people person, and I get a huge kick out of succeeding as a team. I enjoy working closely with my clients so that, when the transaction is complete, there is a real sense of shared success. I’m fortunate that I have gelled with most of my clients, making my role even more enjoyable.

Do you have any advice to those starting out in the industry?

One thing I’ve learned about the parks industry is that it’s like a small town—you keep bumping into the same characters. Whether you like it or not, you’re going to see those familiar faces again. So, it’s better to work together to improve the industry rather than fight against each other.

What has been your favourite professional moment?

In agency work, you’re judged by the transactions you handle. A couple of years ago, I was fortunate to be involved in several large group transactions, which were exciting to work on. Working on some of the largest deals the industry has seen is thrilling, but it comes with the challenge of extreme confidentiality. Despite this, the knowledge that I’m contributing to such significant milestones is truly rewarding and keeps me passionate about my work.

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing?

Before becoming a Chartered Surveyor, I worked as a water sports instructor. While it didn’t quite pay the bills, it was incredibly rewarding. If I had the chance, I’d love to get back into it.

Outside of work, what are some of your interests or hobbies?

I still enjoy getting out on the water when I can, but prefer to do this in warmer climates. I enjoy sports but have to remind myself that I am not in my 20’s anymore. I’m an avid squash player, competing in the local league, and I also enjoy golf. Recently, I’ve got the bug for the emerging sport Padel, though there are not a great deal of places to play yet.

Looking ahead do you have any personal and professional goals for the next year?

After several years dedicated to advancing my career, I’m thrilled to have completed a leadership course this year. I’m eager to apply what I’ve learned and make a meaningful impact. However, for now, my focus is on this busy period in the market and my clients before embarking on new projects.

Is there an interesting fact about yourself or achievement people may not know about?

I do not think there are any hidden facts about me. I have encountered my fair share of struggles and been lucky enough to have had equally as many successes. I think perhaps one fact that people may find surprising is that in my late teens I received a prestigious award for art, something I am keen to do more of when I find the time in my later years.

Who else would you like to be seen interviewed in this series and why?

I look up to many people within the industry, one chap who everyone seems to know is Steve Ekins of Tingdene. I don’t think there is many things he hasn’t seen in the industry and he always has great stories!