
OUR TEAM
Get To Know The Award-Winning HJ Collection Team

CEO
Reece Mennie
Reece Mennie is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur and business leader. The Founder and CEO of award-winning nationwide property developer HJ Collection, property investment specialists Hunter Jones Group, and forward-thinking digital marketing agency Bigas Marketing, Reece’s entrepreneurial journey began at 17 when he left full-time education to help his father manage a print business. Here, his natural sales acumen quickly doubled the company's growth and increased its staff from four to ten within his first year in industry.
HJ Collection
Reece launched HJ Collection in 2019, with an overarching vision to acquire unloved commercial sites and repurpose them into residential units. In just five years, the company has grown into a reputable property development firm, supported by a team of over 20 property development specialists and an innovative turnkey business model - whereby the entire acquisition and development process is managed in-house. HJ Collection has successfully acquired 13 sites and leveraged permitted development rights to establish a pipeline GDV in excess of £100 million, which is forecast to surpass £120 million by the end of 2025. This success has resulted in HJ Collection returning £30+ million to their investors.
Accomplished Business Figure
Throughout his career, Reece Mennie has received numerous prestigious accolades, including recognition at the National LIS and the Forty Under 40 awards. Reece is also known for his successful podcast series “Mennie Talks,” which has further cemented his status as a leading figure in the property industry. Dedicated to supporting local businesses and community members, Reece is an investor and director of Loughton based Boxing Academy, Dennis & Dyer, which is fast becoming a go to fitness establishment in the Essex area. He also mentors young and aspiring entrepreneurs with their own business ideas.
For more information, visit: https://www.reece-mennie.com

Nestor, our Construction Project Manager, embarked on his construction journey at 17, joining Laing O’Rourke as a trainee construction manager on high-scale residential schemes. He then transitioned to healthcare projects, including a state-of-the-art cancer medical research facility in London.
With invaluable experiences at Multiplex, he managed mixed-use commercial and residential developments. Most recently, Nestor contributed to Skanska's flagship project at 20 Ropemaker, a 24-storey commercial development. His diverse background and expertise make him an invaluable asset to our team.
Head of Construction
Nestor Lisbey

Luke is a skilled professional with extensive experience in capital raising, property acquisitions, and brokering deals. Since HJ Collection’s inception, he's been crucial for consecutive growth, leveraging his network and HJ Collection’s approach.
With a keen eye for opportunities, he's involved in £80m+ transactions and a £250m+ GDV.
Luke is widely esteemed for his collaborative spirit, unwavering work ethic, and unbridled passion for property development, all of which have propelled HJ Collection to the forefront of the property development industry.
Head of Acquisitions
Luke De Stefano

Dean Byles, our Site Manager, brings two decades of invaluable experience in the construction industry to our team. With a diverse background that includes roles with the London Underground, various plumbing contractors, and a North London loft conversion specialist, Dean has honed his skills and expertise across different sectors.
Recently joining HJ Collection, Dean is enthusiastic about contributing to our development team. In his role, he will serve as a site manager on upcoming projects, bringing his wealth of knowledge and passion for construction to ensure successful project execution.
Site Manager
Dean Byles

Dan brings a solid foundation of experience from his work across residential and commercial construction environments. Having supported project teams on a variety of new-build and refurbishment schemes, Dan has developed strong skills in coordination, quality control, and day-to-day site management.
Since joining HJ Collection, Dan has been keen to expand his technical and managerial capabilities. In his role, he focuses on supporting project planning, monitoring on-site progress, and driving effective communication between teams to keep projects running efficiently and to a high standard.
Assistant Build Manager
Dan Freeman

Mason is a detail‑oriented Quantity Surveyor at HJ Collection with experience across residential and infrastructure sectors. He progressed from contract administration to surveying and estimating, developing strong skills in commercial management, cost control, and client communication.
At HJ Collection, Mason supports projects from estimation to delivery, ensuring smooth execution and commercial viability. He is passionate about building strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and colleagues, believing that consistent, thoughtful engagement drives long‑term success.
Quantity Surveyor
Mason Sullivan

John, our Civil Supervisor, brings over fifteen years of hands-on experience in civil engineering and site supervision to our team. Having worked across a wide range of infrastructure and construction projects—including highways, utilities, and large-scale groundworks—John has developed a strong reputation for his technical knowledge, practical problem-solving, and commitment to safe, efficient site operations.
Joining HJ Collection from Gresham Communications, John has been eager to apply his extensive field experience to support our delivery teams. In his role, he oversees civil works on upcoming projects, ensuring quality standards are met.
Supervisor
John Appleby

Shannon, with nearly three years of dedicated experience, is a cornerstone of our team, collaborating closely with our CEO and all divisions.
As the executive PA to the CEO, she excels in facilitating seamless communication and operations. Additionally, Shannon manages our company events, showcasing her versatility and commitment to our organisation's success.
Her proactive approach and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset, ensuring smooth coordination across all aspects of our business.
Executive PA to CEO
Shannon Gilbert

With a master’s degree in Banking & Finance, Chris possesses an unparalleled understanding of the intricacies of investing.
With a decade’s worth of experience, he leads a team of specialist investment consultants in our UK and US offices.
Outside of the office, Chris is a keen lover of fast-paced sports, and he enjoys experiencing different cultures through travelling.
Managing Consultant
Christopher Sola

With 10+ years of experience and a Bachelor of Science degree, Elliott always helps clients hit their targets, with 320+ clients gained and retained.
Elliott is well known for his golfing skills, but his biggest achievement was playing for Essex County Cricket.
Managing Consultant
Elliott Skinner
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Sam is an experienced Financial Controller with a strong background across construction, non‑profit, travel, and professional services. He provides robust financial control, insightful reporting, and effective business partnering with operational teams to support sound commercial decisions. Sam is committed to accuracy, transparency, and continuous improvement in managing HJ Collection’s finances.
Financial Controller
Sam Cummins

Gracie is a creative digital marketer with strong expertise in social media strategy and content creation.
Skilled in managing campaigns from planning through to analytics, she brings experience across diverse industries, enhancing brand identity and engagement through tailored digital storytelling.
Marketing Executive
Gracie Leader

Alex is our lead graphic designer and has worked with the company since its founding.
Alex ensures that everything we create perfectly reflects our business and brand. She is dedicated to maintaining high marketing standards and delivering work that aligns with our goals.
Marketing Executive
Alex Hebden

Isabel brings a strong administrative background to her role, providing reliable support that helps keep day-to-day operations running smoothly.
Known for her ability to work efficiently, attention to detail and organisational skills, Isabel ensures accuracy in every task she undertakes, consistently contributing to team success.
Her proactive approach and willingness to take initiative make her a valued asset in any fast-paced environment.
Administrator
Isabel LeGros

Eleanor holds a bachelor’s in law and brings over five years of administrative experience to her role, combining legal foundation with a keen eye for detail. Known for her dedication to quality and precision, she ensures processes run seamlessly and to the highest standard. Outside the office, Eleanor is an avid reader and fitness enthusiast, reflecting the focus and discipline she brings to everything she does.
Administrator
Eleanor Dagnachew

Charlotte is an organised and detail-oriented Assistant Accountant with two years of finance experience in the defence sector. Her Mathematics degree underpins strong problem-solving ability, complemented by excellent attention to detail. She is a reliable team player who takes initiative to support HJ Collection's finance objectives.
