Zoe Smith
CEO
We are setting the standard and reshaping the way the real estate sector attracts, develops and values the best talent.
We meet challenges head-on and we are highly motivated by courage and determination. We are extremely attentive and have our finger firmly on the pulse of the industry. We are open and honest and deeply empathetic- that’s how we build strong relationships.
However, this is not to be confused with compromise… The high standards we set ourselves and the relentless drive to reshape our industry are absolutely non- negotiable.
One Property Recruitment was born in May 2020 during one of the riskiest climates the UK has ever seen! However, it was a risk worth taking as since then we have gone from strength to strength as a company and as a team.
Zoe Smith, the CEO and founder of OPR had a clear vision from the launch of the business which centered around raising the standards in the industry. We wanted to work harder than anyone else whilst providing guidance and expert advice. We build relationships and value the opportunity to share ideas and market knowledge with an infinite drive to serve and improve the real estate sector.
At OPR we respect the bigger picture and recognise the world is evolving, the sector is changing and expectations are moving. It requires intelligence to predict, adapt and thrive which we do by offering bespoke solutions based on the needs of our partners.
Due to our constant evolution we have seen huge success and have grown with offices in London and Manchester.
CEO
Zoe is the CEO of OPR (based in our London office), launching the business to pioneer change within the recruitment industry. She drives the team and leads from the front, constantly challenging the team to ensure our standards are upheld. Zoe relocated to London in 2010 from her small seaside town and has never looked back. She loves being based in an amazing City and prides herself of her consultative advice which she genuinely believes makes a difference within the sector.
Managing Director
Stephanie is the Managing Director of OPR based in our London Office, bringing strong leadership and deep industry experience to the team. With a background as Operations Director at Principle Estate Management, Steph has a proven track record of building successful teams and driving growth.
She’s passionate about delivering a consultative, people first approach and is leading OPR into its next exciting chapter, continuing to be the trusted recruitment partner for clients across the property sector.
A proud Liverpool supporter, Steph’s football allegiance often sparks a bit of friendly rivalry in the office, but her warmth, energy, and strategic mindset make her a natural leader and a much loved part of the team.
Principal Consultant - Recruiting in Block and Estate Management
Luke is based in our Manchester office, leading the charge in our northern operations. He comes from a sales background with a strong desire to build long term relationships. Luke truly values communication and prides himself on keeping everyone updated at all times. He is a keen Manchester Utd fan and season ticket holder, often venturing overseas to cheer on the reds!
Senior Consultant - Recruiting in Block & Estate Management, Leaseholds, and Property Management.
Gillian is a Senior Consultant with us at OPR based in our London office, with over 9 years of experience. She focuses on Block & Estate Management, Leaseholds, and Property Management. Gillian studied Business at the University of Stirling and is known for her clear, friendly, and thoughtful approach to matching people with the right roles.
She enjoys building strong relationships with both clients and candidates, always aiming to make the recruitment process smooth and rewarding. Outside of work, Gillian loves to travel and has explored many parts of the world. Her passion for discovering new cultures helps her connect with people from all backgrounds and brings a fresh perspective to her work.
Senior Consultant - Recruiting in Leasehold, Build to Rent, AST Lettings, Co-Living and PBSA.
Katie is a Senior Consultant with us at OPR, with over five years of experience, specialising in Leasehold, Build to Rent, AST Lettings, Co-Living, and PBSA spaces. Originally from Grimsby and now based in our London office, she brings northern warmth, sharp industry insight, and a people first approach to every search.
Her deep sector knowledge and consultative style make her a trusted partner to both clients and candidates. Katie is passionate about placing the right people in the right roles and building long term relationships across the property sector.
Outside of work, she’s a proud Manchester United supporter and firmly believes that fish and chips should always be haddock!
Senior Consultant - Recruiting in Block & Estate Management, Leaseholds, and Property Management.
Violet is our Senior Consultant at OPR, bringing a unique background in education and a genuine passion for people into the property recruitment space. She began her career as a teacher in Singapore, where she embraced a new culture and built lasting relationships, before moving into education recruitment in London.
Her transition into property has been driven by a desire to take on a fresh challenge, and she now specialises in placing exceptional talent across block and estate management, leasehold services, and wider property roles. Violet’s warm, consultative approach and instinct for recognising potential make her a trusted partner to both candidates and clients.
Outside of work, she’s always up for a friendly chat and loves discovering new places around London, preferably with a good coffee in hand!
Katie is great to work with and has consistently demonstrated an in depth understanding of our requirements, recently we met to discuss everything Build to Rent and how hospitality and property management experience can blend to form future talent in this industry, we also touched on how our values are forefront when looking for prospective candidates. Katie has a great ability to interpret our requirements with precision, this has resulted in a steady stream of high-quality candidates being put forward whenever we have a role live, a huge thank you Katie
Senior RSM – National BTR Operator
OPR have now found us all of our 5 recent hires and have done so by getting to know us extremely well. This saved huge amounts of time reviewing CVs and interviewing candidates that were not right. I look forward to continuing to work with them.
FRY & CO
I dealt with Katie Altoft during my recruitment process and honestly she made the whole thing 10x easier than what it is usually like. She was brilliant throughout the whole process and gave me so much advice and guidance which lead me to secure the role that i applied for. I 100% recommend her and believe she is brilliant at what she does!
Katie Allen
I had a fantastic experience working with Gillian Ferguson. From the moment I first called her, she was approachable, professional, and genuinely supportive. She helped me with communications around a new position and offered great guidance throughout the process. Her support made a real difference, and I’m grateful for her help. Highly recommended!
Lou-Ann Lauwrens
I’ve recently had the pleasure of working with Katie Altoft and I honestly couldn’t be more impressed! From the very start, Katie has been incredibly supportive, professional, and genuinely kind. Job searching can be stressful, but having someone like Katie in your corner makes a huge difference. She's taken the time to really understand what I’m looking for - not just in terms of job titles, but in terms of culture, growth, and long-term fit. She's always quick to follow up, offer valuable insights, and have kept me feeling encouraged and positive throughout. I’d highly recommend Katie to anyone looking for someone who’s not just a recruiter, but a real partner in your job search.
Jacob Oram-Pilcher
I had the pleasure of having Luke Bates act on my behalf, he was always polite and friendly, and was able to understand exactly what I was looking for. He kept me well informed about the opportunities that were available, asked if I was interested in certain roles and provide good information for me to make a solid decision on what to apply for. All I can say is excellent service from a very help and friendly person someone I shall recommend to my company to use again.
Terry Cummings
I can't thank Luke enough for all of his effort and support in securing me my new role. He kept communication regular, clear and informative and was sure to update me during every stage of the process. An absolute delight to work with. Thank you again, Luke!
Cara Scott
I had the pleasure of working with Luke during my recent job search, and I can confidently say he played a key role in helping me secure a role with a fantastic company. From the very beginning, Luke was incredibly supportive, and consistently proactive. He guided me through the entire recruitment process with clear communication, helpful insights, and genuine encouragement.
Cassie Joss