Meet the Team

Managing Director

Ray Bloom BSc (Hons)

At the young age of 25, Ray Bloom purchased John D Wood, following his training years at Pearl & Coutts. Since buying the company, Ray has enhanced the business by attracting new clients and transformed John D Wood into a one stop shop for commercial property clientele. In 2011, Ray won a management contract in New Cairo, Egypt and elevated the business further into the international property market.

Ray is an influential figure in the commercial property industry, featuring on the Property Week podcast and receiving nominations for numerous awards for his contribution to the property market. In 2012, Ray won the ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year’ award at the Young Norwood Property Awards.

Outside of work, he is a Young Patron of UJIA and was actively involved with the young CST property group. He now actively fund raises for both Camp Simcha and Chai Cancer Care. He is an avid sports fan and a huge Tottenham Hotspur supporter.

Assistant Building Manager

Bilal Mahmood

With over 15 years of dedicated service, Bilal has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and evolution. Now as a Senior Surveyor, Bilal has been present and helped the team navigate through multiple transitions, forming and leading new teams to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of commercial property management and building legislations in the ever adapting climate.

Bilal brings a hands-on approach to every aspect of the business, working across property management, negotiations, and client relations. Known for building lasting relationships with current longstanding clients and managing connections with international clients.

Currently, Bilal is overlooking property refurbishment and development projects, driving initiatives from the ground up. Whether on-site or engaging directly with clients and wider teams. Spending most of the week on his feet, catering to client needs and ensuring the successful execution of projects.

Bilal’s commitment to excellence, proactive problem-solving, and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction make him an invaluable asset to John D Wood and its clients.

Director

Graham Stanton FRICS

Graham has had a 45 year career in commercial agency and professional work and was the former managing director of John D Wood from 1994 until 2006. Graham is now a consultant looking after specific client’s interests and assisting on professional rent reviews and investments. Graham was RICS President’s chosen Arbitrator and Independent Experts specialising in Offices in London and the south east for over 25 years. Graham has a vast amount of experience in the property market and continues as a director of John D Wood.

Head of Investments

Craig Van Straten

With over 10 years’ experience in the industry, an MSc Real Estate and BA(Hons) Marketing and Advertising, Craig heads our Investment department with a wealth of knowledge. He excellently manages client relationships and is constantly scouring the market for new opportunities. He began his career working in residential agency before moving to John D Wood in 2016. Craig has experience in both lettings and investment, and is readily available to expertly guide our clients on their next purchase or disposal.

Craig is a family man who loves spending time with his children, finding the best eateries in London and supporting his beloved Watford FC.

Finance Manager

Kieron Bruzas FCCA

Kieron is the Finance Manager at John D Wood and has been in the role since December 2013 as part of the restructure of the company. Kieron began his career in 1998 at King Sturge where he moved from a purchase ledger assistant to purchase ledger supervisor before taking up a role as a management accountant in 2002. Kieron became an Associate in 2008. When JLL merged with King Sturge in 2011, Kieron became an associate director at JLL before moving to John D Wood in 2013. Kieron is also a member of the John D Wood board.

Chartered Surveyor

George Cracknell MRICS

Surveyor

Jacob Haftel

Jacob joined John D Wood in September 2016 after studying for a Real Estate Degree at Sheffield Hallam University. Jacob’s first two years at the firm involved working in the Valuations team carrying out Red Book Valuations across London and the South-East.

Since 2018 Jacob has led the Landlord portfolio asset management work at John D Wood with a focus on rent reviews, lease renewals, lease restructuring, and asset management across London and the UK. Additionally, he has developed a strong background in project management, helping clients identify value add opportunities within their portfolios and advising across all commercial property sectors, including offices, retail, leisure, and warehouse/industrial.

Jacob grew up and continues to reside in North London. In his free time, he enjoys staying active and participating in sports, including golf, football, and CrossFit. He spends most weekends socialising with family & friends, playing golf at his local course, or supporting the mighty Tottenham Hotspur home & away.

Facilities Management Consultant

Charlie Driscoll

Building Supervisor

Christine Hermann

Senior Property Manager

Edward Appiah

Edward joined John D Wood in July 2024 after accumulating over 10 years’ experience in residential and commercial property. Edward brings a wealth of experience and is NFOPP accredited in residential property, where he was a Branch Manager in Estate Agency.

He brings a wealth of experience and high-level skill in property management, with a cluster of sites overseeing the smooth operation.

Excellent negotiation skills and regulatory requirements who is confident dealing with Stakeholders from various levels.

Edward grew up in East London and currently resides in Kent and outside of a professional setting is a family man who follows his beloved Arsenal FC home and away.

Senior Property Manager

Simon Sandhu

A member of the Institute of Residential Property Management (IRPM) and Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), Simon brings a wealth of experience to the table, particularly in the management of large and complex mixed-use schemes. Over the years, he has developed a robust skill set that encompasses the day-to-day operations of retail, commercial, and residential properties.

Simon is a specialist in long-term planning, compliance management, and fostering strong tenant and client relations. He successfully oversees the operations of diverse properties, including retail, commercial, and residential spaces. His experience extends to navigating the unique challenges posed by mixed-use schemes, allowing him to adeptly balance the intricate needs of each property type.

Outside of his professional work, he is a thrill-seeking mountain biker and a devoted season ticket holder at West Ham United.

Assistant Building Manager

Bilal Nadeem

Bilal became the Assistant Building Manager in 2023. His background in security management provided him with a solid foundation in maintaining safety and compliance, which are crucial aspects of property management. His role as Assistant Building Manager requires a keen eye for detail and exceptional organizational skills. By closely collaborating with Senior Property Managers, he ensures that the properties under his purview are well-maintained and adhere to regulatory standards.

For more info, contact Bilal on 07425 788547

Assistant Surveyor

Michael Koscien

Michael is currently undertaking a placement year with John D Wood while he completes his Economics and Management degree. He has already gained experience working in Property Management within the serviced residential property sector.

In addition to his studies and professional work, he plays semi-professional football with Brook House FC and is an avid podcast fan. His favourite podcast currently is “23 controversial truths about life” – Chris Williamson and Alex Hormozi.

Property Accountant

Georgia Thompson

Georgia joined John D Wood in May 2024 as a property accountant. Since graduating from the University of Sheffield in 2021, Georgia has worked in property accounts for residential and build to rent schemes and has now transitioned to commercial property.

Outside of work, she enjoys running, tennis and playing in her local netball team.