People in Business : Rebecca Matthew
The Cheshire Magazine profiles some of the region’s biggest names in business
Rebecca Matthew - Matthew’s of Chester, Estate Agents
Following a successful career in product development at RHM and the birth of her first child, Rebecca made the decision to join the family business and worked hard to build and expand the company over the last 20 years. Rebecca is a great believer in raising industry standards and hopes that the property industry becomes better regulated in future.
What led you into your industry?
My parents set up Matthew’s of Chester in 1986 and I was always exited to hear how the business was growing. I followed a career in the food industry until I had my first child and started considering a career change which would allow me the flexibility to bring up a family. The Lettings side of the business was really taking off and needed someone to manage and grow it. Once I joined the company I never looked back and thoroughly enjoy working in the property industry.
Who was an early business inspiration for you?
My father was my biggest inspiration as he wasn’t afraid of taking a risk and trying out new ideas. He and my mother worked extremely hard to build up the business. They and always kept up a positive attitude despite the many challenges of running their own business. They never lost sight of the fact that providing excellent customer service was the key to success.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
There is no substitute for hard work and never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself.
What’s the secret of great leadership?
Honesty, integrity and gaining the trust and respect of your team.
What’s the biggest leadership lesson you’ve learnt?
Whilst it is liberating to be able to make your own business decisions, it’s essential to consult your team and ensure they buy in to new ideas before implementing them.
Has there been a truly pivotal moment for your business?
Expanding our services into block management enabled Matthew’s to extend its services to cover all aspects of the residential property market and provided an additional income stream. Recommendations from one block to another has enabled the business to grow by reputation and we now have a managed portfolio of over 70 developments across Cheshire, North Wales and Shropshire. Our core areas of sales and lettings also benefitted from expanding into this area as it helps demonstrate our depth of experience.
Which areas of your business will you focus on in 2019?
Both the sales and lettings sector are facing challenges in the year ahead, with on-line portals focusing on low cost for property sales and changes in government legislation for the lettings sector. We will be focused on continuing to provide a truly professional service and demonstrate the value to be achieved by using an independent family business that has an experienced and knowledgeable team. We also aim to continue the growth of our block management business.
Matthew’s of Chester
15, Lower Bridge Street, Chester, CH1 1RS
t: 01244 346226 e: sales@matthewsofchester.com
