Getting to know... Keith Stewart

We know you as the managing partner of Naylors Gavin Black, but who is the person behind the title? Tell us a little about what makes you tick…

I’m very driven by servicing clients and providing specialist property advice, making sure I do the best I can with the tasks in front of me.

I like to plan ahead and consider the potential unknowns, to minimise risks. 

My philosophy is, if you try your best that’s all anyone can ask, regardless of the circumstance. 

I’m focused on driving the business forward for the next few years, with a talented, solid team behind me.

Did you always want to work in commercial property sector?

It didn’t interest me until my late teens.

I wanted to be in the RAF since a careers fair I attended at school, but that dream didn’t come to fruition. 

It was only after I passed my GCSEs that I thought about a career in architecture.

I then studied land administration at college, where I diversified into the commercial side of property.

What’s the best bit about your job? And the worst?

I meet so many people through property and business, and hear from so many different sectors within the industry, which I find really interesting. 

It’s a cliché, but no two days are the same in the job, and that keeps me motivated.

The worst part has to be mundane administration tasks and also working very hard on a transaction that sometimes takes months, or even years, which then falls through at the last minute. 

While so frustrating for you and the client, it’s something you get used to and is part of the job. 

You have to dust yourself down, chin up and move on to the next one.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

Stepping into the position as managing partner of Naylors Gavin Black. 

I came into the business more than 20 years ago as a young surveyor, wet behind the ears with limited knowledge of the industry and people.  

When I look back at how far I’ve come in my career and also in the business, I am very proud of that.

How do you relax outside of work?

I play golf, watch Newcastle United, spend quality time with my family and enjoy good food and a few beers.

What makes the North East such a great place to live and work?

There’s a buzz about the North East; everyone is so friendly and tries to get along to get things done.

Tell us something about you we didn’t know….

I’m keen on DIY – it’s both therapeutic and frustrating in equal measures.

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