Meet The Team
Collectively the team have 100 years experience in residential sales, lettings and land & new homes so can handle any aspect of your property requirements.
Matthew Bennett – Founder & Head Land Agent
Matthew lives locally and has been in the property sphere for 23 years & is highly regarded by the community and property industry. He has extensive local knowledge and can offer advice on all aspects of residential property. Matthew heads up Orchid Land and New Homes working with many clients in providing robust strategies for land disposal and acquisitions as well as development consultancy and new home sales. When he is not at the helm of Orchid Matthew enjoys boxing and playing golf.
Carl Griffiths – Sales Director, Berkhamsted
Carl first started in estate agency back in 1999 in his hometown of Tring. He began as sales negotiator for what was then Bradford & Bingley, but quickly rose through the ranks to regional director in his early 20’s. In that time, he grew an incredible network within the local area, and became recognised for outstanding sales and achievements on a national level, resulting in Carl & his team becoming the ‘go-to’ for property consultancy.
Now living just a stone’s throw from his original hometown of Tring, Carl now calls Berkhamsted home. Having been born and educated in the area, he understands it like no other. His fondness for the area comes across when you speak to him – it’s infectious!
Carl had a career change after his son was born, when he climbed to senior management level for the UKs largest telco company. For nearly twenty years Carl led a team that supported an array of businesses, understanding what drives decision-making and the impact of the UK economy on the domestic housing market.
His career journey has not only helped him gain an incredible understanding of property but also where property sits within people’s lives and all the influences that can drive a move.
Carl is a very proud father to a son & an incredibly energetic Hungarian Vizsla. He’s a big fan of football, both as a fan and playing, and uses matches with local teams to fundraise for mental health charity YoungMinds. He’s also a very keen Padel player.
Jacob Deacon - Sales Director, Boxmoor & Tring
Jacob joined Orchid in 2013. Jacob lives locally and he brings extensive sales experience and enthusiasm.
Jacob heads up residential sales and conducts the majority of valuations. Jacob also conducts viewings meaning our clients have the very best handling their home.
When he is not selling properties Jacob enjoys playing football and golf.
Richard Pratt – Sales Director, Aylesbury
With over 35 years experience (32 in Aylesbury)since leaving Aylesbury Grammar school in 1987 I think it’s fair to say that Richard has learnt a thing or two about the local property market. His passion for the job is unquestionable with a reputation built on personal recommendations.
Richard’s experience has led him to identify a definite gap in the market for a more personal and bespoke approach to buying and selling a home with that, a deep burning ambition to exceed expectations at the same time delivering an unrivalled level of customer service.
Whether buying or selling, Richard will handle the transaction from start to finish. You can trust in him that he will get the deal done.
A keen sports fan and fitness fanatic Richard is happiest in the ‘middle of nowhere’ walking his beloved dogs Molly, Poppy and Ted.
Jesse Highfield - Land Agent
Based in our Boxmoor office, Jesse joined Orchid in 2019 and focuses his energy on identifying land opportunities through his extensive research and analysis. With a black book of contacts and his background of working for a regional housebuilder, he is well placed for bringing great opportunities to the table. When Jesse is not in the office he spends time in the Gym and playing football.
Chloe North - Lettings
Chloe joined Orchid in January 2014 following working for an out of area agent. Chloe lives locally and loves Boxmoor. Her attention to detail is second to none and is very methodical which is absolutely key in the lettings sector. Chloe handles all lettings administration as well as viewings. When Chloe is not busy working at Orchid she can be found spending time with her family which includes lots of travelling.
Steven Pellier – Head of Content
Steven joined Orchid in 2020 having racked up an impressive 20 years in the hospitality, weddings, events, lifestyle and interior design sector. Steven also worked at a leading London agent so brings a great blend of experience and understanding of the industry and people. The passion for property has lured Steven back into agency and we are delighted to have him heading up our marketing and content. When Steven is not working he likes to travel the world.