McGrath Estate Agents has appointed experienced agent Marguerite Foxall to the position of State Manager for Victoria, as the company earmarks the southern state for future growth and expansion.
Announcing the appointment, McGrath’s Head of Franchise, Christopher Mourd said the group was committed to growing their presence in key metropolitan and regional areas of Victoria.
“Marguerite embodies the type of leadership, knowledge, commitment and passion that is essential in a leadership role and has a clear understanding around all facets of daily operations, efficiencies and support of agents and their teams,” Mr Mourd said.
“Importantly, Marguerite is highly respected among her peers, and with her strategic and creative approach, provides a skillset that will be invaluable to our franchisees and new recruits and importantly our clients, as we expand across a larger footprint.”
Mr Mourd explained that the key appointment to the role of Victorian state manager had been endorsed by a selection panel consisting of three local McGrath franchisees across Melbourne and regional areas to ensure a cultural alignment.
Panel appointee Michael Townsend, Co-Principal of McGrath St Kilda and the founding franchisee of McGrath in Melbourne noted the interview process had been a progressive and respectful initiative.
“To us it signified a very real desire by McGrath to understand the local landscape and what we need on the ground. And we are very supportive of the appointment,” Mr Townsend said.
“Marguerite has real estate experience at the coal-face and brings with her a helicopter view, as well as an understanding and knowledge at an agent level that will be a real value-add for McGrath”.
Ms Foxall brings over 24 years industry experience, having worked with leading real estate brands across Melbourne’s diverse property market.
Most recently, she was Network General Manager for Greg Hocking Real Estate with a remit of business and network planning, technology, marketing, training and recruitment.
Ms Foxall said her decision to join McGrath was based on a synergy and shared values such as integrity and always striving to provide a superior service level.
“The McGrath values echo my belief and align with my own approach in real estate. I’ve always admired John McGrath and the McGrath brand from earlier in my career for its excellence within the industry,” she noted.
“I’m equally passionate to see those succeed on their career path. It’s important to support our offices and talented people with continuous targeted training and a customised approach to each office and individual.
“A focus will be to help simplify and streamline our structures with an overall approach to all facets of the business including sales, property management and administration.”
Ms Foxall’s depth of understanding of the Melbourne property market provides further insights around the pandemic.
“The Melbourne market will continue to grow as interest rates are predicted to remain low well into 2023. Buyers are able to borrow more than previously, and added to low stock levels, prices continue to rise,” Ms Foxall said.
“Due to COVID lockdown in Victoria, homeowners are spending more time in their homes, highlighting the need to upgrade their living spaces.
“Lifestyle choices continue to be front and centre with increased demand to lifestyle regional areas and coastal regions such as the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsula,” she concluded.
