Barron to WHR in latest agency switch

Rupert Barron, who left Colliers International in October, has joined Manchester-based independent property consultancy, WHR as partner responsible for the firm's office agency team.

Barron, who has worked in the North West office market for almost 25 years, will be working closely with Peter Skelton who joined as a development advisor in March of this year. Skelton will be focusing on his consultancy role as city centre and development specialist.

Jessica Haigh, who has worked in WHR's professional team for the last two years, has moved across to also join the office agency department.

Barron said: "I am very much looking forward to joining the team at WHR. The practice has built a strong reputation within the North West market and boasts an enviable client list. I am excited about working with the experienced teams there including the investment and industrial departments, which are involved in some of the region's most high profile schemes and deals."

Gareth Buckley, partner at WHR, added: "Rupert agreeing to join our team is a real coup for us. His wealth of experience and in depth knowledge of the market is second to none. 2014 has been an exceptional year for WHR and having being involved in some of the region's most significant deals, we believe that we have now built a team of outstanding calibre."

Many in the market predicted Barron's departure from Colliers after the arrival of Mike Hawkins and Peter Gallagher at this time last year.

Last week it emerged Josh Levy, associate partner, was leaving WHR's office team for Lambert Smith Hampton.