Our People

James Carver MNAEA ARLA

Director

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

Worked fully in the business since 2009 following a degree in property, agency and marketing.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The variety of clients I meet and making long lasting connections.

Favourite thing to do outside of work

I am a keen runner and have done multiple marathons and ultra marathons.

Henry Carver MNAEA

Director

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

A long time as I used to do admin tasks during school holidays.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Getting creative with marketing strategies and exceeding clients expectations.

Tell us a random fact about yourself!

I can walk on my hands!

Favourite thing to do outside of work

Go to the gym (at 6.00am) 🙂

Chris Farlow BSc MRICS

Director

When did you start out in Property?

I graduated from Sheffield Hallam University in 2012 joining a regional auctioneer in Newcastle for around a year before joining Carvers in 2013. I qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 2016 and my hairline has been steadily receding ever since!

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy the breadth and variety of my role. We deal with anything from a single small shop letting at grass-roots level to a multi-million-pound investment occupied by household names. No day is the same and the thrill of the deal keeps every day interesting!    

What is one thing on your bucket list?

To ski the Vallée Blanche with my daughters.

Gordon Carver MRICS FNAEA

Director

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I started working in the industry in 1985, then joining Nick Carver to form Nick & Gordon Carver Residential in 1991.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Seeing all of the fantastic staff reviews from our clients

Favourite thing to do outside of work

I enjoy all outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, & gardening

Michael Harvey BSc FRICS

Director

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I started work as a Surveyor in August 1974 with Basildon Development Corporation, Essex. I was admitted a Professional Associate of the RICS in November 1975 and a Fellow in November 1990.

I have been with Cavers since 2009.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Building Pathology, making a thorough inspection of a building and discovering its hidden faults.

Interaction with a wide range of customers.

Repeat instructions from clients whom I have known and worked with for over 40 years.

Tell us a random fact about yourself!

I am a musician and have provided music for church services for the past 58 years. I also play in a variety of bands. the most recent gig was for the Prime Ministers Garden Party.

David Tinkler MNAEA

Associate Director, Branch Manager & Valuer

When did you start out in Property?

1998

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Helping seller’s and buyer’s throughout their sale or purchase journey and working with a fabulous team of staff across the organisation.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t prioritise your schedule, schedule your priorities.

David Buckle MNAEA

Associate Director, Branch Manager & Valuer

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I started working for Carvers in 1992 which is when I started working in the industry.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Visiting interesting properties, meeting clients and seeing how happy homeowners are when they buy their dream home.

Favourite thing to do outside of work

Play tennis and travel

Karen Atkinson

Sales Negotiator

How long have you been in the industry?

I’ve been in the industry since 1997, joining Carvers in 2023.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love building up a rapport and getting to know clients. I love finding potential buyers their new home, getting emotionally involved, from start to finish!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work I love to spend time with my grandchildren, enjoy holidays and travelling abroad. My main hobby is cycling.

Maisie Beckwith

Lettings Negotiator

When did you start out in Property?
I started out in property in November 2023, and since then I’ve really enjoyed learning all aspects of the industry and developing my knowledge within lettings.

What do you enjoy most about your role?
What I enjoy most is getting to speak to new people every day, as no two days are ever the same. I also really value being part of the lettings team—having a supportive group around you makes a big difference and creates a great working environment.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is “money is returnable, experiences aren’t.” I think it’s important to make the most of opportunities in life and enjoy the experiences that come your way.

Paula Bowman

Accompanied Viewer

When did you start out in Property?

I’ve renovated for myself with my homes and holiday lets and project managed my friends renovation but started working for Carvers just over two years ago as a part time accompanied viewer.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy meeting people on viewings and giving ideas on the house they are thinking of buying.

In another life, I’m pretty sure I was…

Maybe a Viking or a warrior!!  I get a certain feeling every time i pick up a large sharp knife!!

Helen Brooke

Sales Negotiator

When did you start working in the property industry? And when did you start with Carvers?

I started working in the property industry in October 2018 and started with Carvers in July 2024.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

No two days are ever the same. I get to meet a wide range of clients, from first time buyers full of excitement and nerves, to families looking for their forever home. Being part of those major life moments is incredible rewarding.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy getting outdoors, whether it’s a walk or exploring new places.

Bev Brown

Sales Progressor

When did you start out in Property?

Started out in 1997 as a Sales Negotiator / Progressor with another agent. I left there in 2007 and I joined Carvers in June 2024.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I love being able to try and make the journey of buying or selling as smooth as possible.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

To visit Florence is on my bucket list and to win the lottery

Ashley Carver

Finance & Operations Coordinator

When did you start out in Property?

Officially in Feb but unofficially I have been around property for nearly 20 years.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

It is mentally exerting and fulfilling and the days fly by.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

If you have to take your children to the supermarket with you, go straight to the bread section and get them a baguette to munch on – it keeps them quiet and in one place while you get on with the shop.

In another life, I’m pretty sure I was…a character in a book.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

To go to the Maldives.

If you could invent a holiday, it would involve…By day: reading, good food, gelato, sun, sea/pool/lake. By night: a stroll into town on the evening, more good food, live music, dancing.

Peter Chambers

Sales Negotiator

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I started out in property in1979 for 9 years or so, and returned when I joined Carvers in September 2022.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I most enjoy negotiating transactions along with happy sellers and buyers as we prepare for completion.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Never wash a car, mow a lawn, select a Christmas tree – or for that matter buy a property after dark.

Nicole Costello

Trainee Property Manager

When did you start out in Property?

I started in Property in 2020 as a Property Consultant for a buyers agent.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy building a rapport with our clients and continually working with them to provide a great service.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

If you’re not going to remember it in 5 years don’t spend more than 5 minutes worrying about it.

Lynsey Fanning

Marketing Manager

When did you start working in the property industry? And when did you start with Carvers?

October 2025, although I have spent my whole career in marketing, this is my first experience of working in the property industry. I’ve spent my entire career working with some fantastic brands, and Carvers is right up there with the best. It’s been an exciting new chapter (and I’m loving every minute of it).

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The people, and the buzz! There’s something special about working somewhere that genuinely lives and breathes its values. Carvers isn’t just talk; it’s action. That kind of culture is rare, and it makes every day energising.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love travelling. If there’s sunshine and good vibes, I’m there, especially in the Caribbean. I love the laid-back lifestyle, the warmth of the people, and of course, a little bit of adventure along the way.

Hilary Harper

Sales Negotiator

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I’ve been in the industry since 1997 and with Carver Residential since 2012

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the variety of my job. Every day is different.

Favourite thing to do outside of work

Out of work I enjoy travelling mainly to visit my children who live in Mexico City & Atlanta.

Sebastian Hawes Kerr

Marketing Associate

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers? 

I have been with Carvers/in the industry since 2021

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the fact that every day is different and that my role allows me to be creative with how we market our clients houses

Favourite thing to do outside of work

Cooking – I am constantly learning about and trying new cuisines.

Les Hutchinson

Accompanied Viewer

Sean Jackson

Accompanied Viewer

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I started working for Carver Residential and the industry in 2018

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy meeting different people from different backgrounds and listening to their back stories as to why they are looking to purchase a particular type of property. If I can match them to that property it’s very rewarding.

Random unknown fact

When I was around 10/12 years old I auditioned for a part in a movie starring David Niven. I made it to the final 10 candidates and we appeared on the front page of a national newspaper. Unfortunately I didn’t make it any further and thus ended my acting career. ( In a later career learning lines did prove useful however when giving evidence in Crown Court!).

Outside of work

I enjoy walking either with or without my dog Jessie.

Jo Lane

Head of Client Accounts

When did you start out in Property? 

September 2018 (quite by accident!) – I’ve been with Carvers since November 2021 initially in Sales Progression and moving into a Finance Role within the buisness

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The best part of my role is the fantastic team I get to work with every day. I’m also a bit of a data enthusiast—I love getting stuck into a spreadsheet, spotting trends, and transforming raw data into meaningful statistics and actionable insights.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

A dream on my bucket list is diving in the Maldives. The chance to explore its stunning marine life and world-famous turquoise waters would be an incredible adventure.

Chris Lofthouse

Branch Manager & Valuer

When did you start out in Property?

2013.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

When we help people make the move that’s important to them. Buyers and sellers are always excited to make that next move a sale or purchase enables them to do. It’s a cheesy cliche but it really is a lifestyle decision we enable people to make.

If you could invent a holiday, it would involve… travelling the American West exploring abandoned ghost towns.

Sophie McGarva

Sales Negotiator

Lauren McMeekin

Trainee Sales Negotiator

When did you start working in the property industry?

I started out in property in June 2025.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the most my team the environment and learning something new every day every day is never the same.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

My bucket-list goal is simple: an unforgettable road trip along Route 66!

Julie Nichol MNAEA

Sales Negotiator

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I’ve worked for Carvers since 2018. Not immediately before joining Carvers but had previously worked as a Premises & Facilities Manager for a nationwide Recruitment Company setting up their offices all around the country.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The variety, no two days are the same and also the team I work with.

Either – Tell us a random fact about yourself!

I once had dinner with Tina Turner.

Favourite thing to do outside of work

Outside of work I have a picture framing business. Framing beautiful pictures & peoples treasures is my way to relax.

Michelle Pratt

Office Manager

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I have been in industry since 1988 – work experience from school (Woodham Academy) then into Dollery Waller (now JW Woods) age 16. I started at Carvers July 2004 !

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Best thing about my job – The People .

Favourite thing to do outside of work

I love walking in The Lakes . My happy place . I got married there this summer 01/07/23.

Ailsa Robinson MNAEA

Sales Negotiator & Valuer

When did you start out in Property?

In 2021 when I joined Carvers

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The variety of the role means that no two days are the same and we are always learning.

Stephanie Shepherd

Onboarding Specialist

Billy Steele

Residential Valuer

Gary Stephenson

Residential Valuer Darlington

Sue Stephenson

Senior Sales Negotiator

When did you start out in Property?

In the early nineties, selling new build properties for McLean Homes.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The people! I love helping customers – negotiating the best price for our selling clients or guiding a first-time buyer purchasing their very first home, I love it all.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Enjoy the little moments, time really does fly!

Brian Stewart

RICS Registered Valuer

When did you start working in the property industry? And when did you start with Carvers?

I started working within the property industry during 1999 and joined Carvers in November 2024.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The meeting of new clients and the range and scale of property to be considered, as part of the commercial and residential process.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I enjoy running, snooker and socialising with friends.

Alice Stockdale

Sales Negotiator

When did you start out in Property?

I started my career in property back in 2024 and have since achieved my Level 3 qualification.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

My favourite part of the role is the opportunity to connect with people. Every day brings something different and I find it rewarding to make a positive difference for our clients.

What is one thing on your bucket list?

Swimming with pigs on Pig Island is definitely something I want to do one day!

Darcy Swainston

Trainee Valuer

When did you start out in Property?

I started working in property at the start of 2024. I have to admit, it’s a career I “stumbled upon” (for want of a better expression) but I’m so glad I did because I’ve quickly grown to be incredibly passionate about it and I love coming to work every day.

If you could invent a holiday, it would involve…

If I could build my dream holiday, it would have to be 10 days (2 weeks is just too long for me) maybe in Africa going on a safari. In my dream I would also like the flight to only take a maximum of 30 minutes with zero turbulence and maybe just enough time to drink a glass of prosecco!

Peter Thompson

Lettings Manager & Valuer

When did you start out in Property?

2007

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Being part of a team that wants to be different, that’s about quality and not volume.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Show up, be accountable and own it.

In another life, I’m pretty sure I was…

A tortoise

What is one thing on your bucket list?

Seeing Sunderland play away in Europe

If you could invent a holiday, it would involve…

Beerrienteering…Beerrienteering is an exciting outdoor adventure sport that exercises mind and body. The aim is to navigate between pubs (drinking min 1 whiskey and receiving a stamp on your map) marked on a special beerrienteering map. There is no set route so the skill and fun come from trying to out Beerrienteer everyone else. The Battle Royale of drinking.!

Helen Thornton

Secretary

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers?

I have worked in the industry since 1998, with Carvers since 2008.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I currently provide admin support to both the Commercial and Building Surveying departments.

Favourite thing to do outside of work

Outside of work I enjoy reading, gardening, trying to keep fit and spending time with family.

Emma Waites

Branch Manager, Darlington

When did you start out in Property?

October 2018

What do you enjoy most about your role?

No day is ever the same, and working with the team we have is great!

What is one thing on your bucket list?

Visiting Australia, so I can go to the Great Barrier Reef.

Emma Wright

Operations Manager

Since when have you worked in the industry? And with Carvers? 

I have been with Carvers since 2010 having a year experience at another agent prior.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

My job varies so much from day to day – I enjoy working with my colleagues to ensure we are providing the best service possible to all of our clients.

Favourite thing to do outside of work

I have 2 children so enjoy taking them to visit new places, going on bike rides, camping! Plus I also enjoy getting jobs done around the house!