Savills has announced the appointment of a new head of its Oxford office, with Gemma Chandler set to take up the role from 01 January 2026.
The real estate consultancy confirmed that Gemma, currently a director in its rural estate management team, will lead the firm’s 120-strong Oxford-based team of real estate professionals.
Gemma succeeds Richard Binning, who has led the Savills Oxford office for the past seven years and has recently been appointed to the Savills UK Board, representing the rural division.
The appointment comes at a significant moment for the firm locally, with 2026 marking 30 years since Savills established its presence in Oxford.
Gemma has worked at Savills for 11 years and has been based in the Oxford office since 2021. Her day-to-day role involves providing strategic management advice across a portfolio of private family estates and institutional clients, including the Oxford Colleges.
She is also head of rural management for Savills’ Central regional business, bringing extensive leadership experience to the role.
Commenting on her appointment, Gemma said: “It is a privilege to succeed Richard as head of the Savills Oxford office and a challenge I am very much looking forward to. 2026 marks our 30th anniversary here in Oxford – a milestone we will be proudly celebrating with our excellent team and clients.”
Richard Binning reflected on his time leading the Oxford office, highlighting the breadth and impact of its work.
He said: “I am hugely proud of our business in Oxford, which is home to the most incredible team of experts across residential, rural and commercial real estate. We have the privilege of advising on some of the most significant schemes in Oxford, working with our clients to help shape the city’s future growth.
“As my role has evolved to cover a wider remit, now is the time for me to hand the reigns to Gemma, who I know will do an exceptional job of leading the office in 2026 and beyond.”
Richard Rees, Managing Director of Savills UK, added: “Richard has provided exceptional leadership of our Oxford office over the last seven years, supporting its strong performance during this time. I’m excited to see Gemma take on the role in this milestone year for our local business.”
Richard Binning will continue to work between Oxford and London, providing rural agency consultancy alongside his responsibilities on the Savills UK Board.
