"Sit down with Sidney Phillips" is a new blog series from Sidney Phillips, showcasing our network of sector specialists.
This month, we speak to Regional Valuations Manager for London and the South East, Robert Cockayne...
How long have you been with Sidney Phillips?Seven years, including a 10 month gap when I was gaining direct experience in the Central London market.
What was your first job?
Cleaning out the wheelie bins and cutting the chips in a fish and chip shop at the age of 14.
How long have you worked in the industry, what was your first job in it?
I have been working in the Leisure & Hospitality sector for the past 20 years having started at the bottom as a trainee waiter in a lovely French bistro in Harpenden.
The last 12 years of my career have been focused on agency and valuations of property and businesses, having started my journey at Christie & Co.
What is your favourite thing about working for Sidney Phillips?
That it is one of the few remaining family owned and operated Chartered Surveyors in the Leisure & Hospitality sector, which shines through in how approachable the staff are.
What has been a highlight of you time working here?
Appearing on the Hotel Inspector alongside Alex Polizzi, advising on the sale of a distressed hotel in Essex.
What is the most rewarding part of the job?
Seeing the happiness and relief on the faces of clients when you inform them that contracts have exchanged on what is in effect not only their home, but their income and way of life.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your job?
When undertaking Commercial Viability Reports to assess the future viability of public houses, it is always saddening to see how quickly a focal point of a local community can fall into disrepair.
What are your hobbies away from work?
Hockey – I am a proud member, club secretary and social secretary of Sutton Valence Hockey Club. I also coach the junior’s section on a voluntary basis.
I enjoy doing DIY, having just renovated my first home, however, as my local A&E department will tell, I am a tad accident prone with tools.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
I loved Jamaica, however the Nepalese Himalayas and trek to Base Camp Everest will always be a very special place to me.
Tell us something we don’t know about you…
I used to love going salsa dancing. Honest. These hips don’t lie.
What has been the biggest challenge of your career so far?
I have really enjoyed the challenge of learning the various valuation techniques.
If you had to pick a favourite project so far at your time with Sidney Phillips, what would it be?
I have worked with some amazing clients over the years, but really enjoyed advising on the sale of the Abbots Fireside in Elham, Kent, due to the wealth of original features and hand carved mantelpieces that have been retained in this Grade II* listed property.
Where were you when you accepted your role at Sidney Phillips?
In the Plume of Feathers, Hungerford (working rather than leisure I may add!)
What’s your hometown? Where do you live now?
Born and bred in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, but after studying Law at the University of Kent and falling in love with the Garden of England, I now call Tenterden my home.
What is your biggest fear?
Heights.
Who in your industry do you feel most inspired by?
Our principle Registered Valuer John Williams is a great inspiration due to his unrivalled knowledge of the sector with over 40 years of experience.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Poor timekeeping.
If you could live and work in any city, where would you go?
Somewhere with amazing food, drink and history, Naples would be a strong contender!