The listed firm says Stoop brings “significant experience in estate agency and franchising” after holding senior roles at Legal & General, Belvoir Group and Winkworth, where he worked for six years leaving as managing director in 1992.

The qualified chartered surveyor is also an industry board member at the Property Ombudsman.

LSL Property Services owns a range of firms, including the Primis and TMA mortgage networks as well as e.surv.

LSL chairman Adrian Collins, in a stock market statement, says: “Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in the estate agency franchise market.

“His deep understanding of the latest market trends, and keen eye for identifying lucrative opportunities, will prove invaluable as we implement our exciting plans for growth in this sector.”