A legend leaves the housing market

The house building industry is set to be disappointed at the end of this month, when one of its leading figures takes a well earned extended break. Sales Director for Miller Homes Yorkshire, Carolyn Rushbrook, is retiring after 33 years in the industry.

Carolyn, who has developed an enviable reputation for her determination and her extensive knowledge of the industry, has seen many peaks and troughs since beginning her career in the 1970’s, but said none has been as difficult as the one experienced over the last year: “This is the worst slump in the [housing] market I have ever experienced. Although, as the house building industry is one of the first sectors to be hit in a recession, likewise, it is one of the first to re-emerge.

“I am glad the green shoots of recovery have begun before I retire. The fourth consecutive month of house price increases along with the latest reports about share price increases is all extremely good news for the industry. It is giving not only homebuyers, but also the business community, a well needed confidence boost.”

Carolyn began her career as a sales adviser, ironically selling homes on the development where she now lives in Wetherby. Her exemplary career saw her rise through the ranks at some of the UK’s largest housebuilders including, Ideal Homes, Fairclough, Barratt and Taylor Woodrow before settling at Miller Homes.

Her style of management is a reflection of her tenacious character: “To get the best out of your team you must treat everyone with the same respect, operate an open door policy and generally promote self responsibility whilst offering guidance,” said Carolyn.

Steve Birch, Managing Director of Miller Homes Northern Region, and respected colleague of Carolyn’s said: “It is a great loss to the industry when a person such as Carolyn with her wealth of experience and knowledge leaves. Carolyn has overcome many challenges in her career and has an excellent understanding of the merger process and was instrumental in the smooth amalgamation of Fairclough and Miller Homes. And her ability to lead a successful team has enabled Miller Homes Yorkshire to stay ahead of expectations and achieve outstanding business objectives.”

Well on the way to achieving her yearly completions target, Carolyn will confidently hand over the reins to her successor: “Our success can purely be attributed to my team. We have remained strong and as the team pulled together to deliver quality homes, excellent customer care and good prices, the fact that we are well on our way to achieving our targets is a testament to them,” said Carolyn.

Carolyn is planning to spend her retirement travelling and discovering the different cultures and architectural delights of countries worldwide.

For further information about Miller Homes, who, this year is celebrating its 75th year anniversary, visit millerhomes.co.uk.