WITH so many staff being laid off from estate agents offices since the downturn began, it’s nice to hear that a few are still taking staff on.

Knight Frank Irelandhas recruited Andrew Wattas its new head of professional services. A chartered surveyor, he worked at Finnegan Menton where he was a company director. He will take over the management of the professional services department and be responsible for developing the business further. He will also have an active role in the ongoing development of Knight Frank Ireland's property investment sector. Phew! And what will he do in his spare time?

• Meanwhile, Savillshas appointed Fiona Heffernanas its business development and marketing manager, a newly created role. A marketing graduate with a Bachelor of Business Studies, Fiona has over 10 years experience across many industries, having worked at Vodafone, General Electric and more recently, Davy.