International Men's Day

Why Phil Whitman, Branch Manager, is our inspirational man this International Men's Day.

How do you try to be a role model for those in your team?
I try to lead by example. Whether that’s maintaining high standards in how we present our properties or the way we communicate with clients, I believe consistency and accountability set the tone for a strong team culture. I also encourage everyone to think creatively and to take ownership of their ideas — Prestige thrives because we work collaboratively, not hierarchically.

What inspired you to start a career in property?
I’ve always had a passion for property and design — I love the idea of connecting people to homes. The mix of architecture, negotiation, and creativity appealed to me, and of course, the financial rewards that come with hard work in this industry are a real motivator too. It’s a career that can be as lucrative as it is fulfilling if you put the effort in.

How has your journey with your brand evolved so far?
When I first joined Hardisty, there wasn’t a dedicated Prestige division. As the business evolved, I was given the opportunity to head up and develop the Prestige brand — creating something that truly represented the high-end, lifestyle-focused side of our market. It’s been incredibly rewarding to build it from the ground up, shaping the identity, expanding our reach, and establishing a trusted name for premium property. Watching it grow into a recognised and respected arm of the company is great to see.

What do you love about your job?
What I love most is the team I get to work with every day. We’re a tight-knit group that genuinely supports one another — everyone brings their own strengths, and together we make things happen. It’s a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, and no two days are the same. Seeing our teamwork translate into happy clients and successful completions is what makes it all so rewarding.

What advice would you give to younger people entering the property industry?
Don’t rush it — take the time to learn the ropes and find your own style. Focus on people, not just the numbers. The real success in this job comes from building trust, relationships, and a solid reputation. Get stuck into every part of the process and keep learning. The more you put in, the more rewarding it becomes.

How do you take care of your physical and mental well-being?
I try to stay consistent with regular gym sessions and healthy eating — it keeps my energy levels up and my head clear. I’m a big believer in balance, so I make time to unwind too, whether that’s working on home projects or getting outdoors. It’s all about keeping a good routine that helps me switch off and reset.

Do you have a particular moment or accomplishment you are proud of?
Seeing the Prestige brand grow into one of the leading names in the region has been a huge highlight. Building a close-knit, motivated team and watching them achieve great results.

What's a fun fact about you?
I am a big animal lover, currently sharing our home with three cats, a Rottweiler and a Pugalier, who you'll occasionally see sniffing around Prestige. We also have a flock of chickens on the way.