Nick Cooper, manager director of Northwood and former chairman of the SAFEagent board, has died. Tributes from across the lettings industry have been flooding in following his death yesterday. Nick, aged 50, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer nearly two years ago. He sadly leaves behind a wife and two children.
Nick’s career in the lettings industry spanned three decades, during which time he spent nearly ten years on the board of directors at leading private lettings agency, Northwood. He also played a pivotal role in the wider industry, working tirelessly to improve professional standards and champion consumer protection through his position as chairman of the SAFEagent Steering Group. His commitment to the industry is further evidenced by the seats he held on the TDS Forum and NALS group.
Gemma Goodson, finance director at Northwood, said: “This is desperately sad news for everyone that knew Nick. He was an incredibly special person who was liked and respected in equal measure by all. Words like ‘inspirational’ are used all too readily nowadays, but in Nick’s case, there will never be a more fitting tribute. Nick was a great mentor, colleague and friend. He was passionate about the lettings industry and raising standards, which meant a great deal to him and we are proud of the legacy he leaves behind. Our thoughts are with his family at this time."
Andy Goodson, Northwood’s chairman, said: “There are no words that can describe the loss. Nick was not only Northwood’s MD but also my best friend.
"Life will never be quite the same without him but I’m eternally grateful that I had the opportunity to know not only him, but also his wonderful family whom my thoughts are with.”
NALS chief executive Isobel Thomson said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Nick Cooper. He was a man of wit and warmth whose contribution to the sector will be sorely missed. It was a privilege to have worked with him. My thoughts are with his family and his colleagues at Northwood."
John Midgley, SAFEagent chair, said: “Nick’s passion for improving standards in the private rented sector is epitomised by his leadership and guidance in the early days of the SAFEagent campaign. He was one of the industry’s true gentlemen. His energy and sense of humour will be missed by us all and our condolences must go to his family and those close to him."
Funeral arrangements will be announced shortly but we anticipate it to be Thursday August 29. Northwood is creating a special ‘Book of Memories’ for his family to treasure in years to come. As such, the company is inviting those who knew him, and who were touched by his warmth and humour, to supply any anecdotes they would like to share. Please send to melissawilliams@northwooduk.
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Comments
Nick was a genuinely nice guy who had the gift of making people feel important and at ease. I heard him speak at the NALS conference and his passion and enthusiasm for SAFE was the reason we joined. An agent who led industry in trying to make a difference rather than moaning because others did nothing. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
I did not have the pleasure of ever meeting Nick, but having read the above posts, I genuinely wish I had.
Deepest sympathies, to you his friends and family.
Very sad news indeed. Nick was a great chap who did much for the industry and for the consumer. He will leave a big void.
Nick was a gentleman. Very clever, always cheerful and able to control any situation with his presence.
He will be dearly missed by all.
Nick was an immense character whom I respected greatly. Erudite, assertive, razor sharp and challenging but always with a charming infectious sense of humour. Best of all, he was my friend and I will miss him hugely.
Such very sad news, our thoughts our with Nick's family at this very difficult time, He will be sorely missed by so many and I feel privileged to have had the pleasure to have known him both professionally and as a friend over recent years.
L x
Shocking news and shows still after all the advances what a truly shitty disease it is.
All thoughts to the family and friends.