Meet the team

Managing Director

Ronnie Clarke

Ronnie has worked in the industry for 20 years, starting out as a trainee negotiator with a regional firm of estate agents. In addition he is also a fully qualified mortgage broker. Ronnie has a young family, twins born in 2015, so much of his spare time is spent caring for and entertaining his young family. Ronnie has a passion for customer services which can be seen through the numerous 5 star google reviews – nothing comes before his clients best interests.

Area Director

Adam Contreras

Meet Adam Contreras, our dedicated Area Director who brings over two decades of invaluable experience in the local housing market. Adam embarked on his property journey back in 1997, starting his career with a reputable regional firm. Since then, he has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to serving clients and helping them achieve their desired moves in a stress-free and enjoyable manner.

Adam’s passion for property is evident in his day-to-day interactions and his genuine desire to assist clients throughout their journey. He understands that buying or selling a property is a significant decision in one’s life, and he goes the extra mile to ensure a smooth and seamless process for our valued clients.

With his extensive knowledge of the local market, Adam possesses a keen eye for identifying opportunities and matching them with clients’ specific needs and preferences. He stays up to date with the latest market trends and continually hones his skills to provide clients with the best possible guidance and support.

Beyond his professional expertise, Adam is known for his friendly and approachable demeanour. He takes the time to actively listen to clients, understanding their unique circumstances and tailoring his services accordingly. His excellent communication skills and ability to build strong relationships have made him a trusted advisor among clients and colleagues alike.

When working with Adam, you can expect a dedicated and proactive approach. He will guide you through the intricacies of the real estate process, providing expert advice, negotiating on your behalf, and ensuring your interests are always prioritised.

Outside of work, Adam enjoys exploring the local community, keeping up with industry developments, and spending quality time with his family and friends. His genuine love for the area translates into his passion for helping clients find their ideal homes in this wonderful community.

Sales Director - Eaton Bray

Andy Smith

We are delighted to introduce Andy Smith, our Sales Director for the Eaton Bray office. Joining the Castles team in 2022, Andy brings with him an impressive 17 years of experience in the local property industry, having previously worked for a multi-office independent agency. With his extensive background, Andy is poised to enhance his already outstanding reputation as a proactive and customer-focused estate agent.

As Sales Director, Andy is driven by his passion for delivering exceptional service to our valued clients. He understands that buying or selling a property is a significant milestone, and he is dedicated to providing a smooth and successful experience for each and every client.

Andy’s proactive approach ensures that he stays one step ahead, consistently anticipating the needs and requirements of his clients. His attention to detail, industry expertise, and strong negotiation skills enable him to achieve outstanding results for those he represents.

Outside of work, Andy cherishes spending quality time with his young family. He takes great pleasure in engaging in various activities with them, creating lifelong memories. In his free time, Andy also embraces his passion for football, embarking on a personal mission to visit random football stadiums as he strives to complete the illustrious 92 club.

Andy’s commitment to his profession and his dedication to his clients make him an invaluable asset to the Castles team. His wealth of experience and enthusiasm ensure that he is well-equipped to guide you through your real estate journey, whether you are buying or selling a property in the Eaton Bray area.

For personalized and results-driven service, Andy Smith is the trusted professional you can rely on. Contact him today to discuss your property goals and discover the difference a proactive and customer-focused approach can make.

Directors PA

Carole Curran

Carole joined the team in October 2024, bringing over 30 years of experience in a similar role. With her exceptional organisational skills and extensive administrative knowledge, she’s sure to keep everyone on their toes!

Carole is the go-to person for getting things done and is always happy to lend a hand whenever needed.

Away from the office, Carole loves to travel and, if she’s not exploring a new city and experiencing its culture and food, can be found on a sunbed reading the latest crime thriller.

Operations Manager

Louise Harrison

Louise has worked for Castles since 2014 working her way up to Group Operations Manager.

Louise is familiar with all aspects of our business and is always available to assist our team and clients in any way she can.

Louise is driven to deliver exceptional customer service and is an ‘out of the box’ thinker, she will always do her best to ensure that we overcome any problems that emerge during the buying and selling process.

Branch Partner - Boxmoor

Simon Stears

Simon started his career in estate agency in 2013 rising up the ranks quickly to become the Branch Manager for Boxmoor in 2016.  Outside of work, Simon is a devoted father to 2 children, a keen footballer and quite often a dare devil with his young son. It’s not uncommon for Simon to come to work on a Monday with a knee injury, scrape or bruise as he has tried to impress his young son at the skate park.  He forgets he is fast approaching 40!

Branch Manager - Berkhamsted

Ian Allison

Ian joined Castles in 2021, bringing with him a wealth of experience in property.

Ian started his career with a regional firm back in 1989, he worked through Black Wednesday in 1992 where interest rates hit over 15%, the Labour years, the dotcom bubble in the early 2000s and the property crash of 2008.  All of these markets moulded Ian into a well rounded, highly experienced property professional, able to navigate all types of housing markets to deliver exceptional results for our clients.

Ian joined the Berkhamsted team as Branch Manager from December 2023

Branch Manager - Eaton Bray

Matthew Wood

A true local, Matt has called this area home since his family moved to the area in the early ’80s from North London, attending local schools in his early days, playing rugby for various local teams, exploring what the whole area has to offer and becoming an active member of the community. Professionally, with over two decades in the estate agency world, he’s seen it all from first-time buyers’ nervous excitement to the art of sealing the deal on dream properties from cosy cottage, through to extensive country homes with many acres of land.

Matt’s journey in property began working in both sales & lettings departments, carrying out valuations, negotiations, lettings property management, inventories, and tenancy check-outs. As his career progressed into sales management, the past eleven years has been well spent leading successful teams, coaching, and mentoring, helping others find their own success in the industry. One of his proudest achievements was launching a cold-start office, proof of his entrepreneurial drive and ability to thrive under pressure.

Outside of work, Matt loves spending time with his wife and two daughters and long countryside walks with his beloved cockerpoo Leia.  Matt is also a keen runner (having recently conquered the MK Half Marathon) and is a golf enthusiast.

With his deep-rooted local knowledge, vast experience, and relentless passion for property, Matt is always happy to help, whether you’re buying, selling, or just need some expert advice.

Branch Manager - Kings Langley

Matthew Hooton

Branch Manager

Steve Orchard

Steven Orchard brings 24 years of expertise in the Borehamwood, Radlett, and Elstree property markets to the Castles team. His career has been dedicated to helping clients navigate the local real estate landscape with confidence, understanding the nuances of these communities and the unique needs of those who call them home. Known for his dedication to customer service, Steven builds lasting relationships with clients, ensuring every step of the buying or selling process feels straightforward and supportive.

Joining Castles in 2024 after the acquisition of Michael Yeo, a well-respected local business, Steven continues his commitment to serving the Borehamwood area. His deep ties to the community, coupled with the resources and reputation of Castles, make him a reliable choice for anyone looking to make their next property move.

Head of Client Services

Louise Lockett

Meet Louise Lockett, the dynamic leader at the helm of our Client Services department. With a passion for delivering exceptional service and a knack for connecting with people, Louise’s return to our team in 2022 was a testament to her invaluable skills.

Bringing over two decades of experience in sales and customer service to the table, Louise is a seasoned professional who knows the ins and outs of the industry like the back of her hand. With five years dedicated specifically to sales progression, she possesses an in-depth understanding of the intricacies involved in the buying and selling process.

Outside of the office, Louise finds joy in the company of her bustling family and extensive network of friends. Her downtime is cherished, often spent basking in the sunshine with a captivating book in hand. Louise embodies the perfect balance of professionalism and personal fulfilment, making her not only a respected leader but also a cherished member of our community.

Assistant Branch Manager

Daniel Gough

Dan joined the team in 2018, bringing valuable experience from his previous role as a Sales Manager for a leading computer hardware supplier. His passion for property and commitment to exceptional customer service quickly propelled his career within the Hemel Hempstead office.

In October 2024, Dan moved to our Borehamwood branch, where he continues to thrive as Assistant Manager.

As a second time home buyer and recent seller, Dan has first-hand experience with the challenges of purchasing a property and is dedicated to guiding clients through the process with empathy and expertise.

Outside of work, Dan has taught himself skills such as plumbing, small building works, and decorating, with a particular flair for interior design and décor. However, as a devoted father to 2 young children, much of his time is now joyfully dedicated to family life!