About Us

Our global mission to redefine property recruitment.

Our Mission

GKR International represents many of the most respected property brands globally. With a personal passion for property and 10 years of specialist experience, Grant Kaveney founded GKR London in 2010. Now operating across five core sectors and with partnerships in multiple countries, we offer our international network a tailored service. 

Our commitment to deliver exceptional talent and change the perception of property recruitment remains our driving force. GKR has built long-standing relationships by exceeding expectations and offering bespoke recruitment agreements.

We prioritise personal relationships and we believe in the importance of human nature. Our services include Residential, Commercial, Property Management & Office Support, Built Environment and Finance & Investment.

Our Story

2010

First Placement

The beginning of the future

"My first placement working for myself was in 2010; it was emotional, I knew the candidate well. It gave me the confidence to believe in myself and it was the start of many more to come." - Grant Kaveney 

2010

First Key Account

It's not what you know, it's who you know

Grant was approached by one of the industry’s longest standing and successful estate agencies who instructed him solely to recruit for a 20 + office operation across London.

2012

First London Office

No more paperwork on the kitchen table

Moving away from the kitchen was a welcome relief for Grant; in 2012 he began working from a serviced office in Pall Mall, only two doors down from James Caan’s first office.

2014

First Investment

Growth is never by mere chance

In 2012, Grant was introduced to Hamilton Bradshaw and Recruitment Entrepreneur, founded by James Caan. In 2014, he received investment from James and after just 12 short months, GKR was exceeding all expectations.

2014

First Key Hire

Team work makes the dream work

Our first key hire joined as a consultant in late 2014, bringing 10 years of property experience. Now a Partner at GKR, overseeing a highly effective team specialising within Residential property.

2016

First Million

We did it!

GKR reached £1million revenue within 18 months. This was a huge achievement for us and has continued to snowball. We are now working with 80% of the most successful London residential property firms.

2016

First Award Recognition

Property Recruitment Agency of the Year

News on the Block who deliver an incredible awards ceremony for property. 2016 saw the introduction of the award for ‘Best Property Recruitment Agency of the Year’ and GKR was shortlisted as a finalist!

2017

First MIPIM

Tenfold return on investment

The team attended MIPIM for the first time. With a 10-fold return on investment as well as having the opportunity to showcase our brand to many, we’ve since returned!

2018

First 5 specialist teams

Adding another string to our bow

We diversified our services across a broader real estate market, with key hires to expand our presence with the addition of our Commercial, Executive Search and International opportunities. 

2019

First Manchester Office

We are tackling the North West!

GKR announce the launch of our Manchester office in Spinningfields and are extremely excited to develop further presence within the North-West of England. If you’re a senior consultant in the area and want to play a major role in our expansion plans, get in touch with us.

2020

First International Market Expansion

Introducing international placements

The year we focused on the positive and expanded our niche specialist offering to leverage our global network, and provide placements outside the UK. We quickly sourced candidates for several different country locations requested by clients, and we're counting.  

2021

First acquisition of Beeken Reeves

Introducing creatives to the property sector

Following several years of strategic partnership, GKR acquired architecture, design & built environment specialists Beeken Reeves. Having built a close alliance over the past six years, this acquisition will allow us to offer an aligned and even greater service to our clients and candidates. 

2022

First 30,000 LinkedIn Followers

Strongest Brand of the Year 2022

As we bask in the honor of being recognised as the strongest brand at The RE Excellence Awards, we extend our gratitude to our valued LinkedIn community for their continuous support. 

2024

First debut of GKR International

Global real estate talent specialists

GKR International continues to build on its solid foundation of expertise in the real estate sector, offering clients and candidates an even broader spectrum of opportunities and connections worldwide.

Our Services

  • Permanent Staffing Solutions:

    We excel at securing top talent aligned with your company culture. Our adept team uses innovative recruitment strategies, drawing on industry insights to deliver candidates exceeding expectations. Rely on us to forge a workforce crucial to your company's lasting success.

  • Temporary Outsourcing Needs:

    Whether facing seasonal peaks or special projects, we offer flexible staffing solutions. Our agile approach ensures swift deployment of skilled professionals, integrating seamlessly into your team for immediate impact. Stay ahead with our on-demand workforce, navigating workload fluctuations without compromising quality.

  • Market Intelligence Reports:

    In a rapidly changing market, staying informed is paramount. Our experienced team use data to provide comprehensive market intelligence — from industry trends to competitor analysis. Equip yourself with the knowledge for informed decisions. Turn uncertainty into strategic advantage with our Market Intelligence Solutions.

  • Exclusive Recruitment Provider:

    As your dedicated recruitment partner, we ensure priority access to a curated pool of candidates. Experience a bespoke hiring process that aligns precisely with your requirements, fostering a seamless and efficient recruitment journey. Partner with us exclusively for recruitment excellence.

  • Retained Business Partnership:

    Enjoy exclusive access to our expertise and resources, creating a tailored strategy for sustained success. Benefit from priority service, personalised solutions, and a dedicated team committed to understanding and advancing your unique goals.


Inclusive Recruiter Accreditation


At GKR London, we are working closely with Adam TobiasCo-Founder of Inventum Group who are leaders in inclusive talent solutions, to ensure we continue to evolve our EDI practices and to provide our team with the tools and resources to support our clients with their EDI journeys, becoming more inclusive employer brands.

GKR London is passionate about equity, diversity, and inclusion. We seek individuals from the widest talent pool and encourage underrepresented talent to apply for vacancies with us. We are committed to recruitment processes that are fair to all, regardless of background and personal characteristics.

Inventum Group

Our Values

  • Best-in-class Service

  • Resilience & Determination

  • Positivity

  • Passion for Property

  • Authenticity


Hear from our Founder, Grant Kaveney on The Recruitment Entrepreneur Podcast



GKR International's Northern Odyssey: New Edinburgh Offices


GKR News

GKR International's Northern Odyssey: New Edinburgh Offices Read more

Our Global Mission


GKR News

Our Global Mission Read more

Happy Birthday GKR!


GKR News

Happy Birthday GKR! Read more

Work for GKR


Do you want to make a difference? Are you passionate about service? How much do you care about the property industry? If you are looking to influence the real estate talent landscape, become a career expert and an excellent salesperson, we would love to hear from you.

We work with the industries biggest and most successful brands and we've worked hard to build excellent long-term relationships. Our team receive first-class tailored training on a regular basis and always remain up to date with market trends. We work really hard to achieve great things and we would love for you to help us too!

Find out more

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We specialise in five key sectors

  • Commercial

    The commercial team provide permanent and contract services to leading property and construction consultancies in the Private & Public Sectors as well as developers, banks and funds.

    Read more.
  • Residential

    With experienced consultants and ex-property professionals in one team, they are market experts working with High Street Agents, Corporate giants, Developers and Investment Agencies.

    Read more.
  • Property Management & Office Support

    With first-hand experience in both roles, we represent Managing Agents, Facilities Services, High Street Agents, Student Accommodation providers, Investment Funds, Interiors & Design practices supplying property management and office support functions.

    Read more.
  • Built Environment

    The team have worked hard to develop long standing relationships working with architectural & interior design consultancies, property developers and project leads, our team deliver both permanent and professional interim/contract solutions.

    Read more.
  • Finance & Investment

    Our finance division is comprised of a specialist team placing individuals across development, investment, funds and advisory across the UK and Europe. Our clients span Finance & Accountancy, Private Equity, Debt, Property Companies, REIT’s and Advisory from Analyst to Director/Partner level.

    Read more.

Meet our team

Michael  Cartmill Michael  Cartmill
Senior Recruitment Consultant
Joined October 2022

Michael Cartmill

An extensive, modern property recently refurbished and offering fantastic views.

Michael has joined our Residential Estate Agency, New Homes & Development team as a Senior Recruitment Consultant. Having relocated to London from his hometown in Belfast, Michael worked as a Personal Banker before moving into Recruitment and bringing three years of experience with him. Outside of the office, Michael is a big football fan, an avid Liverpool supporter, and a Chess enthusiast. 

Anu Deb Anu Deb
Director
Joined November 2014

Anu Deb

Tastefully designed with sophisticated interior features.

Anu joined GKR in 2014 with an ambition to help expand the office support division of GKR; coming from property herself Anu grasped the market quickly and now works with all of London’s biggest and most successful property brands. With a family history in catering, it’s no wonder Anu is quite the chef herself. 

Bradley Hellier Bradley Hellier
Principal Consultant
Joined October 2021

Bradley Hellier

Modern and spacious open-plan apartment with incredible character.

Bradley joined GKR with some great first-hand experience within the residential real estate sector having worked for Marsh & Parsons previously. With such a thorough understanding of the industry and the roles he is now recruiting for, he is excellently positioned to offer consultative career guidance and support. With family in Devon, Bradley thoroughly enjoys the outdoors and regularly visits home to help out on the family farm! 

Andy Irvine Andy Irvine
Associate Director
Joined January 2024

Andy Irvine

This new development offers expansive panoramic views of the city.

Andy Irvine has joined GKR as Associate Director specialising in Commercial Real Estate recruitment. With an impressive track record of 15+ years in the industry, Andy brings a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for talent. Beyond his professional prowess, Andy is known for his passion for comedy and football, adding a touch of humour and team spirit to our dynamic workplace. ⚽

James Isaac James Isaac
Recruitment Consultant
Joined September 2023

James Isaac

Rooted within local history, offering impressive views and luxury furnishings. 

James joined our residential team with combined first-hand experience within residential lettings since 2018, and talent expertise recruiting for a renowned property consultancy internally, utilising the knowledge he'd developed leading his own teams to success. As an avid sports fan and gaming enthusiast, James is a competitive team player with an appreciation for comedy television and spending quality time with his family. 

Grant Kaveney Grant Kaveney
Founding Director
Joined July 2010

Grant Kaveney

Boasting an enviable position and state-of-the-art outdoor braai.  

In 2010, it was the right time for Grant embark on his own adventure after helping scale a recruitment business from South Africa. Biltong is almost always the answer; he makes his very own for the team and it's not to be missed! An avid fisherman, Liverpool supporter, proud South-African and strangely capable beatboxer - watch out Ed Sheeran!

Rose Lock Rose Lock
Associate Recruitment Consultant
Joined February 2018

Rose Lock

Offering extremely quick connections and an exceptional energy rating.

Rose joined GKR in 2018 having worked in property in both the UK and Spain over the last 20 years; her tenacious attitude has driven fantastic results quickly in the property management space. An OG vegetarian with the wildest office-snack combinations you will ever have heard of. 

Emma  Lyall Emma  Lyall
Recruitment Consultant
Joined May 2023

Emma Lyall

Featuring a french balcony, this bright and characterful apartment has real charm.

Emma has joined our Residential Estate Agency, New Homes & Development team as Recruitment Consultant having worked in the residential sales industry in London herself for the last nine years. Emma progressed to become a Sales Manager, successfully running teams in prime markets before taking the plunge into residential recruitment with GKR! When she is not recruiting, Emma is most likely at the gym, on the bike or collecting music vinyl's. 

Jessica MacLeod Jessica MacLeod
Recruitment Consultant
Joined January 2024

Jessica MacLeod

A modern and bright townhouse offering great connections.

Jessica MacLeod has joined the Residential Real Estate team as Recruitment Consultant. Fresh off a globetrotting adventure after graduating, Jessica is now geared up to bring her enthusiasm and dedication to our team. With a passion for making a difference and recruiting top-notch talent, Jessica is set to make her mark in the industry. Outside the office, she's not just a skilled Padel player but also a fervent skier.

Lee  Riley Lee  Riley
Senior Director
Joined October 2016

Lee Riley

A perfect example of period property with luxuriously fitted carpets.

Lee has worked in residential recruitment since late 2015 after working in the property sector for almost seven years himself. Whilst our entire team’s food bin/hoover, he’s a self-declared Asian food addict. Historically pooch obsessed; now with a fur baby of his own, he’s got the situation under control.

Molly Shoesmith Molly Shoesmith
Operations Manager
Joined November 2014

Molly Shoesmith

Completely restored within, meeting the new with the old.  

Molly joined GKR in 2014 and was instrumental in developing the property management desk. Working with a wide variety of London's most well-recognized brands, her knowledge of the industry is second-to-none. In mid-2017, Molly became responsible for our internal training, social media and hiring needs. Now based from Amsterdam, we’re never disappointed with the sweet treats she brings back with her! 

Emma  Smith Emma  Smith
Recruitment Consultant
Joined March 2022

Emma Smith

Boasting beautifully presented interiors and an enviable location. 

Emma has joined our office support division sourcing support superheroes across the property market; with a background working in customer service, followed by a successful stint in residential sales, she is really well equipped to get up and running quickly! 

Peter Wallis Peter Wallis
Associate Recruitment Consultant
Joined February 2019

Peter Wallis

Impressive views across London following an upper-floor extension.

Peter joined our office support team in 2019, taking on the responsibility and growth of all marketing roles. When not chasing recruitment fees, he’s most likely chasing gains. Who knew avocado went with every single meal?!

Michael Woda Michael Woda
Partner, Head of Residential
Joined July 2014

Michael Woda

Distinctive features throughout and striking white render.

Michael joined GKR as one of our first key hires in 2014 bringing with him eight years’ experience in property, now responsible for a team of six. If not in the office hoping for a whole in one, you’ll likely find him on the course – aye! Not to mention Brick Lane, devouring the Indian delicacies.