The boss of Ireland’s biggest estate agency Sherry Fitzgerald is to step down after eight years in charge.

Steven McKenna (main picture) has been with the company since 2008, and had previously served as CFO before becoming CEO.

McKenna, who is 47, said he wanted to “explore new opportunities” in his career. He will continue until the end of February while the company search for a replacement, the Irish Times reports.

Expansion

McKenna played a key role in Sherry Fitz’s sale to CastleGate Investments in 2022.

Earlier this year, the firm expanded into Northern Ireland through the acquisition of Simon Brien Residential, one of the province’s leading estate agents.

McKenna led the company as it launched an online customer platform, mySherryFitz in 2018, and sold its commercial property business to Cushman & Wakefield Global.

Management buyout

Sherry Fitzgerald has over 100 offices and 550 staff. It backed the 2005 management buyout of Marsh & Parsons ion London by Peter Rollins and Liza-Jane Kelly, tasking the pair with growing the company from seven branches to 27, before selling to LSL for £50 million.

Three years ago, it was said to be considering a return to mainland Britain 10 years after it exited following the sale of Marsh & Parsons, but it came to nothing.

Right time

McKenna says: “It has been an incredible privilege to lead Sherry FitzGerald and to work alongside such a talented and passionate team.

“Having accomplished the goals we set out for the business, and with the group in such a strong position, I feel now is the right time for me to explore new opportunities.”

Anne Heraty, Chair at Sherry Fitz, says: “His vision and commitment have been instrumental in transforming and shaping the company’s success, and we wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”