LRG Expands Auction Network as Daniel Gale Takes National Director Role

LRG Strengthens Auction Leadership with Gale Promotion

LRG has promoted Daniel Gale to national auctions director at First for Auctions, marking a significant expansion of the group's auction operations across the UK. The appointment reflects sustained growth in the auction business, which has increasingly become a preferred route to market for sellers seeking certainty and defined timescales.

Gale moves up from head of auctions and will retain full responsibility for the strategy and performance of the operation. His expanded remit includes growing First for Auctions' network of independent estate agency partners and overseeing auction offerings across LRG's residential sales businesses. The role underscores the company's commitment to developing its people from within and scaling its auction capabilities nationally.

The auction operation has demonstrated impressive momentum. First for Auctions held its largest auction to date in October 2025, featuring a catalogue of 70 lots. The business has since accelerated its partnership model for independent estate agents, allowing agencies to offer a managed auction service under their own brand—a strategic approach that provides agents with additional revenue streams whilst maintaining client relationships.

Gale's Appointment Reflects Years of Expertise

Gale began his property career in 2005 and joined Romans (now part of LRG) two years later. He transitioned into the Auctions and Commercial team in 2010 before becoming Head of Auctions in 2022, when LRG consolidated its existing auction services under the First for Auctions brand. Since then, he has overseen its transformation into a modern, nationwide online auction operation.

Kevin Shaw, national sales managing director at LRG, commented on the appointment: "Daniel's promotion reflects both what he has achieved at First for Auctions and the scale of the opportunity ahead. He has developed the business into a modern, national and increasingly partnership-led operation, delivering strong results for sellers while giving estate agents a valuable additional route to market."

Gale added: "The auction market has changed significantly during my career and is increasingly being chosen as a first-choice route by sellers who value certainty, transparency and a defined timeframe. My focus will be on taking that model to more agents across the country, investing in our people and service, and continuing to demonstrate the breadth of properties that can achieve successful outcomes through auction."

Cala Homes Promotes Riddell to Lead East of Scotland

In related leadership news, Cala Homes has promoted Neil Riddell to managing director of its East of Scotland operation. Riddell will oversee the housebuilder's activities across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Perth and Kinross, Fife and the Scottish Borders—a significant regional portfolio.

Riddell previously served as construction director and board member of Cala's West of Scotland business, joining the company in August 2025 following more than two decades at Taylor Wimpey, where he spent 22 years across several operational roles before becoming production director.

In his new position, Riddell will oversee Cala East's existing developments and future pipeline, focusing on operational performance and delivery of the division's programme. Cala's East of Scotland operation has several significant developments in its pipeline, positioning the region as a key growth area for the housebuilder.

Tom Nicholson, Chief Executive at Cala, noted: "Neil has made a significant contribution since joining Cala and has earned the respect of colleagues across the business through his leadership, expertise and commitment to delivering excellence. His appointment reflects the depth of talent we have within Cala and our commitment to developing our people."

Source: Property Industry Eye.