Islington Team

I became partners with Geoff Hotblack in 1981; our ‘divorce’ in 1986 was friendly and I bought his half back in 1998 when he retired to his guns, cars and the country. I have worked in Islington on and off since 1976 and sold my first house in Theberton Street for £26,000! Remarkably HD is the oldest agent left in Islington now; many having been swallowed up by the larger and flashier types. Being the company insomniac, I am usually in the office at 7.30am. Pleasures outside include, going to the gym, watching lots of sport and enjoying the achievements of my 4 grown up children and 5 grandchildren.

I have spent the majority of my life living in various parts of Islington. I started at the firm in 1990 as a trainee under the tutorage of Geoffrey Hotblack and I rose to partnership in 1998. I opened the Highbury office in 2006 and ran that before handing it over to Alasdair. I now look after new business, working with developers and contractors which I am finding pleasantly challenging. To unwind, I get out my bike and go cycling. I organise the Hotblack bike rides which are a great way for us all to get to know each other out of the office and keep fit too!

Born in Canonbury in 1971, I had the pleasure of going to Canonbury school. 26 years later my children followed in my footsteps. When my first child went there I was shocked at how small the hall was and how little the climbing frames were. My primary love (after my wife and four children) is skiing and I spent 6 years as a ski instructor in the French Alps and travelling the world. However, a broken back cut that career short. I started in estate agency in 1995, joining Hotblack Desiato in 1998 with partnership following in 2003. I ski as often as having 4 children allows me and I have a passion for architecture/ design and sailing.

I have lived in North London all my life, and am the youngest of 4 siblings. Having previously worked in the Camden Branch, I took a break and moved into the busy and wonderful world that is Islington. I took some time out to explore my passion for baking, which I have loved since I was a child. During my time away, I enrolled in a patisserie school and I qualified as a pastry chef. I can either be found at home covered in flour, shouting at people on the ‘Great British Bake Off’ and playing netball in the park.

Born and raised in Islington, I began working for Hotblack Desiato after I had graduated from Bournemouth with a degree in Photography in 2019. Having worked in our Camden office for 2 years, I am now based in my local office in Islington and loving it. On the weekends I enjoy going on runs, spending time at home, and visiting the great pubs that North London has to offer. If you’re ever wondering down Upper Street, please feel free to free to pop in for a chat!

Hi! I’m Rosie and recently joined Hotblack Desiato, working within the Islington lettings team. I’ve been welcomed with open arms and am already learning so much about the industry. Every day is different, and I love how fast paced the role is. Having family in Islington, I have grown up in the area, so it is amazing to have a full circle moment and to now be working in an area I have so many memories within. I have a degree in Psychology, so this role was perfect as allows me to meet so many different people from all different backgrounds, and I take great satisfaction in helping individuals to find their perfect home. I love how diverse all the properties are, and in particular, the period properties, in which the goal is to have one of my own one day! Outside of work, I love all things wellness and working out, particularly yoga and Pilates. I am so excited to continue learning and championing my development within the company!

Hi there, I joined Hotblack Desiato’s property management team in 2014 and I received a warm and friendly welcome from everybody. Originally from up north I have lived in London for over 20 years. I enjoy being a property manager – it keeps me on my toes as no day is the same. I am a ‘people person’ and I naturally go above and beyond to meet the needs and requirements of clients and tenants. In my spare time I enjoy chilling and spending time with my family near Birmingham, they do great fish and chips up there! I also enjoy travelling, reading, cooking and studying historic pictures. Don’t laugh but I also collect old dictionaries – I love words.

Hi I’m Rita. I joined the Hotblack in February 2020 working with the Highbury team and later took on the Block portfolio. Growing up in Highbury, managing properties in this area feels like a perfect fit. With years of experience in AST and block management, I’m excited to bring my skills to Hotblack. Currently based in the Islington office, I collaborate with the Islington, Highbury, and Camden teams to ensure our blocks are managed to the highest standard. Outside of work, I am always with family or socializing with friends. I also enjoy traveling, staying active, and indulging in good food!