Antonia D’Alessio
Partner and Head of Conveyancing Department, Gilbert Stephens Solicitors
Antonia is a Partner and Head of the Conveyancing Department at Gilbert Stephens Solicitors. She specialises in Conveyancing with Advanced Practice Rights in Property.
Antonia obtained her Exeter University LLB law degree in 2013 and undertook Bar exams in London in 2015 before converting to the CILEX Route. She is a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Legal Executives.
Antonia is a founding committee member of Exeter Property Circle and Branch Chair of Women in Property (Devon and Cornwall branch).
Her most recent accomplishment is winning Chartered Legal Executive of the Year at the Devon and Somerset Law Society Awards.
“I was delighted to be invited to join the judging panel for the Exeter Property Awards. Exeter showcases some amazing talent in the property sector and I am very keen to get stuck into judging and awarding some very well deserving locals.”
Ben Coggins
Director, APUK
Ben Coggins is an accomplished entrepreneur with a proven track record within the construction and property development sectors, which has spanned over a 15 year period. With a solid foundation in project management and a strong understanding of the MEP sector. Ben has a wide range of experience working within residential and commercial construction throughout Europe and the UK.
Ben started his career within the construction element of a start-up business called Fitness First in the mid 1990’s and helped to grow that business to the leading health club chain in the world. From there Ben went on to help design and construct some of the most prestigious houses within Hertfordshire, London, Surrey and Devon for some private clients, whilst also carrying out various development projects across the UK.
Ben always works closely with his clients and design teams, so that they can ensure that the most cost effective methods are utilised during the construction process. This could be by the choice of material, a construction process or a procurement route.
“I am delighted to be on the judging panel for the Exeter Property Awards. There are so many great projects within Exeter! It will be really interesting to review the projects and learn about the companies and staff behind them.”
Mac Muzvimwe
Director and South West Market Leader, Arcadis
Mac Muzvimwe is a Director and South West Market Leader at Arcadis, a global multidisciplinary consultancy of 36,000 staff. He is a chartered quantity surveyor and a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors with over 25 years’ experience, of which more than 20 years have been in the South West. Mac’s volunteering portfolio includes being a Non-Executive Director at various organisations including a Multi Academy Trust and counselling charity. In the past, he has held industry positions with the RICS and the Construction Industry Council. In his spare time, he has a passion for golf, and volunteers as the Junior Organiser at his home club where he is helping grow the game within disadvantaged communities.
“Devon & Exeter have been my home for the past 20 years, where I have worked and formed lasting personal and business relationships. Being part of the Exeter Property Awards 2024 judging panel gives me a chance to give back and celebrate all the wonderful achievements of our local property and construction business community over the past year.”
Max Sayers
Director, Nooko
With a background rooted in mining, property and construction, his extensive experience in these domains forms the backbone of the company’s strategic direction and operational excellence.
Max’s vision has been pivotal in shaping NooKo’s mission of blending architectural prowess with sustainable development practices.
As the Director of Nooko Ltd, I am driven by a deep passion for sustainability and a firm belief in the power of innovation to drive positive change. With a background in the Mining industry, I bring a unique blend of skills and insights to my role, allowing me to lead our team with purpose and vision.
As a leader, I am dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. I believe in the power of teamwork and collective action, and I am always seeking opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations who share our values and goals.
Let’s connect and collaborate for a better tomorrow!
Samantha Thomas
Sam is a chartered town planner (MRTPI) and has 20 years of experience in both the public and private sectors in the submission and management of a range of planning applications and associated work including pre-application enquiries, condition discharge, and non-material amendments. Sam has a sound knowledge of planning procedure and regulation and extensive experience of assessing and negotiating successful planning outcomes.
Key private sector experience includes acting as planning agent for a number of major residential applications, arranging and undertaking public consultation, preparation and submission of Local Plan representations and Call for Sites, site appraisals and planning strategy reports, and preparation and implementation of a Housing Needs Survey.
Key public sector experience includes dealing with a number of high profile strategic residential and commercial developments, negotiation of complex Section 106 agreements, design review panels, and management of strategic issues linked to major development sites involving extensive stakeholder engagement
“I was impressed with the energy of the Awards last year and was pleased to be asked to be a judge for 2024. There is a real enthusiasm and passion in the development industry in Exeter and it is great to be part of highlighting all the amazing projects, companies, and people working here to deliver great schemes.”
Sophie Weeks
Director of Interior Design, Expedite
Sophie Weeks is the director of interior design at Expedite, bringing 15 years of experience in commercial interior design. Her portfolio spans education projects, from universities and student accommodation to healthcare, with a special focus on retirement living and care. Sophie is dedicated to creating beautiful, functional spaces that reflect her clients’ vision. Passionate about sustainable design, she is committed to environmentally conscious and cruelty-free solutions, which are central to her award-winning work.
“I’m delighted to have been asked to join the judging panel for the Exeter Property Awards. The EPA is such a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the incredible talent in our city. It’s always inspiring to see the hard work and achievements of the past year, and it’s great for us all to come together in one room to acknowledge those accomplishments. I’m excited to be part of the process and to help highlight the amazing projects, people and companies in Exeter.”