A day in the life of ESPC’s CEO
I’m Paul Hilton, CEO of ESPC, a role I’ve held since 2014. I first joined ESPC back in 2000, and what drew me in then - and still does - is the company’s spirit of innovation.
Even in 1997, ESPC was ahead of the curve, launching its website long before many others in the property sector. Over the years, I’ve seen ESPC grow into a brand that’s not only trusted but genuinely valued by the public, and I feel privileged to be part of that journey.
A typical working day as ESPC CEO
It’s a cliché, I know, but no two days are ever the same.
As CEO, my role is broad. Externally, I try to be visible as a leader… providing market commentary on social media, our ESPC podcast, in the press, and on radio and TV. I share ideas, challenge thinking, encourage change in the sector, and champion the solicitor estate agency proposition, which is at the heart of what we do.
Internally, my focus is on working with our team to achieve our goals for the year and further our mission to be the number one property portal for buyers and sellers in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, the Borders, and Dumfries & Galloway.
ESPC has been around since 1971, and our brand is not just trusted but also held with real affection by the public. That heritage matters to me. While we continue to innovate, I’m always mindful that we need to remain relevant across all sectors and demographics of the property market.
This year, we’re launching a new app, rolling out campaigns aimed at first-time buyers and the premium market, expanding our advice services via the Property Lounge, and making enhancements to our website. Every initiative reflects our drive to stay ahead while serving our customers better. Whilst most of these developments are digital, we continue to commit to the high street with our Property Lounge and print via our monthly Property & Interiors magazine.
The most rewarding (and most challenging parts) of the job
Honestly, there isn’t anything I dislike about my role. I often think of the saying, choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life… and that really resonates with me. Every day brings a new challenge or opportunity, and that variety is something I thrive on.
What I enjoy most about my job is the chance to push boundaries and make a difference. Innovation is a big part of what we do, and right now we’re exploring some really exciting AI research and development projects that could transform how people buy and sell property. I’m also passionate about driving change where it’s needed. For example, lobbying for reforms to Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) so it’s fairer for first-time buyers. Seeing ESPC at the forefront of both technological and policy progress is incredibly rewarding.
Growth and excellence are also at the heart of my work. I love that our new campaigns are helping us engage with more people, from first-time buyers to those in the premium property market. At the same time, we’re working closely with our solicitor estate agents to raise standards through the ESPC Charter and ongoing training.
And finally, I really value the chance to represent ESPC in podcasts, media, and PR. It’s not just about profile, it’s about being able to share authoritative insights, backed by the very best data, to help people understand and navigate the market with confidence.
The road ahead
Being CEO of ESPC is more than a leadership role… it’s a chance to help shape the property market in Scotland. Every day brings something different, and I love the variety, the challenges, and the opportunities to innovate. With a strong heritage, a trusted brand, and a passionate team, I’m proud to guide ESPC as we continue to evolve and serve buyers, sellers, and our member agents across the country.