UK Homes Network Announces New Chief Technology Officer
At UK Homes Network, we’re always looking at how to build the best platform for property professionals across the UK. That means more than just creating a space to connect – it means investing in the right people, technology, and vision to take the platform forward.
That’s why we’re proud to announce Rich Devenport as our new Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
Rich’s story isn’t the typical “corporate tech executive” tale. In fact, it’s far more interesting – and it perfectly matches the energy and creativity we want to keep bringing into UK Homes Network. From photography and design, to property branding and web development, Rich’s background has always been about blending creativity with technology and using it to build real communities.
This announcement marks an important step in our journey. As UK Homes Network continues to grow, adding new features and serving thousands of property professionals, we need a leader who understands both the property industry and the digital world inside out.
And that’s exactly what Rich brings to the table.
Who is Rich Devenport?
Rich’s career started in an unexpected place – photography. After beginning a degree at university, he realised the academic route wasn’t for him, but his creative eye and curiosity about design set him on a different path.
Partnering with a friend who was a web designer, Rich co-founded a small agency. What began with shooting product photos for a carpet company quickly expanded into building websites, creating branding, and hosting digital services.
Rich taught himself Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, developing the skills to deliver complete creative solutions for clients. Over six years, that business grew steadily, taking on more clients and offering everything from photography to full digital builds.
When his co-founder stepped away for health reasons, Rich took the reins. Not only did he continue managing the hosting clients, he doubled the client base – all while juggling extra jobs to fund his first home. He worked nights as a support worker and mornings as a photographer for a national estate agency, then dedicated his afternoons to building his own business.
That hard-working, multi-hat approach became a trademark of Rich’s career.
How Rich Entered the Property Industry
Rich’s first real connection to property came through his work as a photographer for an estate agency. But the turning point came while working in social care for a close friend who happened to be a property investor.
It was here that Rich spotted something crucial: property investors and developers were struggling with branding and social media. Their businesses might have been strong on the bricks-and-mortar side, but online they were missing opportunities to connect, build trust, and attract deals.
So, in 2018 – well before Covid made digital networking a necessity – Rich began focusing on property branding and social media strategy. He built logos, designed websites, and created content specifically for property professionals, helping them stand out in an increasingly noisy space.
More importantly, he began attending property networking events and immersing himself in the community side of the property world.
This wasn’t just about creating visuals – it was about understanding how property professionals connect, collaborate, and grow together. That experience is what ties Rich so closely to the mission of UK Homes Network today.
Why UK Homes Network Needs a CTO
Technology is at the heart of everything we do. From events and webinars, to Land Match, House Match, and Commercial groups, to premium membership tools, our platform depends on solid, scalable tech to bring property professionals together.
As we continue to grow, we need to make sure our platform evolves with our members. That means improving the app, making networking easier, adding new features, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Bringing Rich in as CTO means we now have someone who:
- Understands the property industry from the inside
- Has hands-on experience in design, branding, and digital technology
- Knows how to build and maintain websites, apps, and online platforms
- Believes in the power of networking and community
This combination makes him the perfect fit for UK Homes Network’s next stage.
Rich’s Vision for Technology and Property Networking
When we spoke with Rich about joining UK Homes Network, what stood out most was his vision for the future.
For Rich, technology isn’t just about software or code – it’s about creating better experiences for people. In the property world, that means making it easier for developers, landlords, investors, and service providers to find each other, share opportunities, and grow their businesses.
Here are some of the things he’s most excited to bring to UK Homes Network:
A Better User Experience
Making the app and website more intuitive, faster, and engaging so members can focus on what matters: building relationships and doing deals.
New Features for Premium Members
Developing tools that go beyond the basics, offering exclusive features for those who want to maximise their property networking and deal flow.
Stronger Integration with Events
Bringing in ways to connect what happens at in-person events with the digital platform, so the value continues long after the event is over.
A Community-First Approach
Ensuring every feature we build helps foster real connections and supports the property community as a whole.
What This Means for UK Homes Network Members
For our members, the appointment of a Chief Technology Officer means one thing: a better platform.
You’ll start to see improvements across the app and website in the months ahead, from smoother performance to exciting new features.
It also means we can move faster. With Rich leading the technology side, UK Homes Network can dedicate more focus to growth, events, partnerships, and opportunities for our members.
And because Rich has been part of the property scene for years – attending networking events, working with investors, and helping property businesses with branding – he understands what members actually need.
Property in 2026: The Role of Technology
A lot of property professionals are already asking: what will the property industry look like in 2026?
While no one has a crystal ball, one thing is certain – technology and networking will be at the centre of it.
Here’s what we expect to see:
- More online deal sharing – as property gets more competitive, platforms like UK Homes Network will become essential for finding and securing opportunities.
- Hybrid networking – in-person events will always matter, but digital platforms will keep conversations going all year round.
- Greater focus on branding – investors, developers, and landlords who stand out online will win more deals and build stronger reputations.
- Data-driven decisions – property professionals will increasingly use tools and platforms to guide investment choices, track opportunities, and manage projects.
With Rich onboard, we’re positioning UK Homes Network to lead in this space – giving our members the tools to thrive in 2026 and beyond.
Welcome Rich!
Bringing in Rich Devonport as Chief Technology Officer is more than just an appointment. It’s a signal of where UK Homes Network is heading.
We’re building something that lasts – a platform that becomes the go-to place for property professionals to connect, share, and grow. And to do that, we need the right mix of vision, experience, and energy.
Rich’s journey from photography and design, through property branding and social media, to technology leadership, makes him uniquely qualified to take UK Homes Network into its next chapter.
We’re excited about what comes next – and we know our members will feel the benefits very soon.
