Voices in Property - Jo Eccles

Welcome to our quick-fire spotlight on industry leaders and entrepreneurs in Property.

In this edition, Jo Eccles, Founder and Managing Director of Eccord. shares personal insights and experiences with anyone who may be currently working in or aspiring to join the London property industry.

What are you most proud of in your career?

The calibre of clients who choose to work with us makes me really proud; it’s the strongest endorsement of what we do. Many are incredibly impressive leaders in their fields and for them to seek our advice and place their trust in us for such a significant financial and emotional commitment is something I never take for granted. 

Also, my brilliant colleagues. It’s not easy to build an exceptional team and they make Eccord what it is – I can walk into any meeting feeling genuinely proud to be alongside them.

First property job and how you got it?

My first role in the industry was with a property PR firm representing central London estate agents and property developers. I got the job by contacting the company out of the blue and pouring my heart into a cover letter that reflected my true love for property. After a year working closely with sales and lettings managers across London, analysing each micro-market, I knew London inside out. That gave me the market knowledge to go and set up Eccord.

What motivates you?

Doing the best possible job I can. Those who have worked with me will know that I am constantly refining everything we do and questioning how we can make it better.

Best advice for preparing for an interview?

Do your research thoroughly and ensure you come armed with questions to really understand the culture of the company. Successful recruitment is a two-way process and there needs to be a good fit on both sides. Make sure you can demonstrate your passion and articulate why you want to work for that company in particular.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self?

Stay true to who you are, continue working towards what you believe in, and success will follow. 

Which leader, entrepreneur, founder, or CEO inspires you?

I take inspiration from the entrepreneurial journey, more than the individual. I loved reading Shoe Dog by Nike founder Phil Knight, and I also enjoyed WeCrashed on Netflix about the rise and fall of WeWork.

Your best deal?

We acquired a super prime house in Notting Hill for a hedge fund client relocating to London. Their favourite house was one we showed them which had been under offer for several weeks to another buyer, who was being represented by a selling agent moonlighting as a buying agent. They had been slow to progress, and we seized the opportunity. I had to quickly get our client comfortable with the UK buying process (very different to the USA), the concept of competitive bids and my suggestion of a £100k non-refundable to prevent us having to pay a premium. I had to leverage our track record and every relationship I had, and the speed and outcome of the transaction were testament to a true team effort from everyone involved.

What’s your favourite restaurant?

I don’t have a favourite restaurant as my husband always has a list of new ones to try, but I’ll say Gymkhana as I had one of my most fun birthdays there last year. 

Apple or Android?

Apple

About Eccord

Find out more about Eccord here and connect with Jo Eccles here.

Collins Property Recruitment is a business with a purpose: to enable talent and businesses to meet and do great things together. We make this happen through an unrivalled network, a values-led, consultative approach and a hard-earned reputation as the go-to recruiter in property.

Should you have any enquiries, email us at info@collinspropertyrecruitment.com or give us a call on 020 7435 0309.