The Big Picture: Is the UK Housing Market Finally Turning a Corner?

Michael Cook - Chair

Chief Executive Officer, LRG

Michael has spent nearly his entire career with the Group, starting as a Sales Negotiator at Romans in 2006. He rose through the ranks to National Lettings MD in 2018, Group Managing Director in 2022, and became CEO in January 2024. A member of RICS and ARLA, Michael has broad experience across Sales, Lettings, Property Management, Acquisitions, and Corporate portfolios. He led the 2016 merger of Leaders and Romans and the Group’s sale to Platinum Equity in 2022. As CEO, he oversees growth plans, service development, and works closely with stakeholders on business strategy.

David Smith

Editor, Sunday Times

David Smith has been economics editor of The Sunday Times since 1989. He is also chief leader-writer, assistant editor and policy adviser. David is the author of several books, including Free Lunch: Easily Digestible Economics; and Something Will Turn Up: Britain’s Economy Past, Present and Future. He is a visiting professor at Cardiff and Nottingham Universities and has won a number of awards.

Richard Donnell

Executive Director, Zoopla

Richard heads up the Research and Insight team at Zoopla. He and his team harness our rich data to help you get to grips with your home, your move and the most important trends in the housing market. A regular face in national media, Richard has spent his career advising businesses and the government on all aspects of the housing market. He's best known for providing simple, insightful commentary and honest advice.

Stephanie Hattersley

Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Stephanie was appointed Connells Group’s first Chief Corporate Affairs Officer in September 2025, bringing a strategic and forward-thinking approach to shaping the Group’s corporate narrative and external engagement. In this newly established role, she leads strategic planning, market intelligence, external communications, public affairs, and crisis management, ensuring the business is well-positioned to navigate transformational change and amplify its voice. With over two decades of experience at Skipton Group, Stephanie held roles across mortgages, risk and strategy, and most recently served as Chief of Staff. Her experience spans operational oversight, strategic influence, and supporting the executive board in delivering the business’ corporate objectives. Stephanie holds an MSc in Strategic Leadership and is a passionate advocate for nurturing internal talent and investing in leadership development. Her commitment to fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and continuous improvement supports Connells Group’s ambition to deliver outstanding performance and long-term value.