Former Foxtons COO joins BidX1 as UK managing director

Darren Simpson

Simpson joins the firm with almost four decades of experience spanning estate agency, residential property, international development and business leadership.

He sent more than 16 years as co-owner and group operations director of Chancellors, spearheading the growth of the business into a 58-branch estate agency before it was acquired by Leaders Romans Group in 2025.

Simpson also held senior leadership positions at various built environment companies including chief operating officer at Foxtons, managing director at Gascoigne Pees and Carson & Company for Countrywide and European general manager at DAMAC Properties.

In his new role, he will lead BidX1’s UK growth strategy, overseeing regional expansion, acquisitions and development.

Simpson succeeds Oliver Childs, who left to join Sanderson Weatherall last year.

Jonathan Fenn, chief executive at BidX1, said: “Darren is one of the most experienced operational leaders in UK residential property. His track record of scaling businesses, leading high-performing teams and delivering growth makes him the ideal person to lead BidX1’s next chapter in the UK.

“We have ambitious plans for the business, and Darren’s experience, commercial expertise and leadership will play a key role as we continue to invest in our platform, our people and our regional presence.”

Simpson added: “What attracted me to BidX1 was the combination of genuine ambition and the backing to deliver it. The business has an outstanding technology platform, an experienced team and clear plans for growth, making it an incredibly exciting time to join.

“We’re looking at growth on multiple fronts. That includes expanding our regional auction business through acquisitions, growing our agency referral network and investing in talented people who want to be part of a business that’s changing how property is bought and sold.”