Eric Walker succeeds Nick Cooper at helm of Northwood

Northwood, the company headed by Nick Cooper who has died at the age of 50, has a new managing director – chosen by Cooper himself.

Eric Walker started at Northwood yesterday, after leaving Your Move, which he had joined only in February and where he was regional managing director for its south-east division.

The charismatic Cooper was also a chairman of the SAFEagent scheme, and Walker is a member of the steering committee.

Before Your Move, Walker was group managing director for Bushells from 2008 until its acquisition last year. He has some 20 years’ experience in lettings and sales.  
 
Walker said: “It is an honour and privilege to follow in the footsteps of my dear friend Nick Cooper. 

"Northwood is a fantastic firm and I have long been impressed by its business model and brand values. 

"I am looking forward to working with the network and continuing Nick’s drive for excellence in the lettings industry.”
 
Gemma Goodson, Northwood’s financial director, said: “It was Nick’s wish that Eric would become managing director as they shared the same working ethos and passion, particularly in raising professional standards in the lettings industry. 

"Eric brings an outstanding track record and breadth of experience, and we are delighted to welcome Eric to Northwood.”

Northwood is a franchise business, primarily known for lettings and offering a guaranteed rent model, but does also sell property. Started in 1995, it has some 70 offices across the UK.

Cooper died last month from pancreatic cancer.