Australia’s fastest growing real estate business has signalled its intent with the hire of Michael Conolly as Head of Property Management

 

 

Michael Conolly, Stone Real Estate

 

Fast-growing, boutique real estate firm Stone Real Estate has expanded its corporate team with the appointment of experienced McGrath Estate Agents executive Michael Conolly as Head of Network Property Management.

Conolly has been in the real estate industry for over three decades, during which time he has engaged in a variety of roles across residential, commercial and business management. He most recently served as McGrath’s Head of Network Property Management Franchise Services, where he provided coaching and consulting to a network that began with 8,000 properties, helping it expand to over 34,000 at present.

He brings an extensive industry network to the role, as well as exceptional knowledge and experience managing and working with some of the largest and most profitable property management portfolios in Australia.

“Not only have I previously worked with several members of the fantastic executive at Stone, but I've also been a long-term admirer of what Peter Mumford and his team have built since the business launched. The corporate team is full of people I’ve enjoyed working with in the past and have a great deal of respect for. Joining the team was always something that was on the cards, it was just about waiting for the right opportunity,” Conolly said.

“The Stone Real Estate name has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, and the team has done a remarkable job in brand building. That’s only possible when you create a company with people who believe in the same shared values, and Stone’s values are tightly aligned with my own.”

Stone Real Estate adopted a franchise model in 2016 and has since continued to experience rapid growth, building a substantial presence through New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, with over 60 offices.

Stone Real Estate CEO, Peter Mumford, said Conolly’s addition feels like a natural fit for the business. “Not only is it fantastic to get the opportunity to work with Michael again, but the fact that we were able to go out and hire someone of his calibre and experience in such an important role is a clear vote of confidence in what we are doing, and the culture we have created.”

Head of Franchise, Luke Cameron, said the addition of Conolly is reflective of how far Stone has come in recent years. “We’re delighted to welcome Michael to the corporate team and we can’t wait to see him bring his extensive expertise to Stone.

“After several years of organic industry growth helping us reach key goals, Michael will bring a renewed focus to the property management side of the business, ensuring we can continue to grow sustainably into 2023, no matter what the market throws at us.”

Conolly added he is looking forward to joining Stone Real Estate at a time when the industry is facing unique challenges, to help the team continue its growth journey.

“At times like this, when we are experiencing a market shift, it’s vital that real estate businesses re-focus their energy on the property management side of the business. My role will be to ensure Stone franchises continue to grow, and help them ensure long term efficiency, profitability and growth, as well as to protect the integrity of the brand moving forward.”

About Stone Real Estate:

Established in 2014, Stone Real Estate adopted a franchise model in 2016 and is now a fast-growing network of more than 60 franchises throughout NSW, ACT, Queensland and Victoria. With an emphasis on educating clients on the ever-changing property market, Stone's value add is its sharper market intelligence and a focussed approach to selling properties.