Introduction to McCarthy Stone

McCarthy Stone is Britain's largest and most respected developer and manager of retirement communities, with a legacy spanning over 45 years. Headquartered in Bournemouth, England, the company has built more than 55,000 homes across the United Kingdom, offering a unique combination of independent living, communal facilities, and round-the-clock care. As a cornerstone of the real estate and later-living industry, McCarthy Stone has earned an outstanding reputation for quality design, customer service, and innovative housing solutions tailored to the needs of older adults. The company's portfolio includes retirement apartments, assisted living suites, and luxury care homes, all designed to promote active, social, and secure lifestyles.

With a workforce of over 2,000 employees and annual revenues exceeding £700 million, McCarthy Stone is not only a market leader but also a trusted partner for homeowners, investors, and local authorities. The company's commitment to excellence is reflected in numerous industry awards, including the Housebuilder of the Year (Later Living) accolade and a five-star customer satisfaction rating from the Home Builders Federation. By placing residents at the heart of everything they do, McCarthy Stone has become a symbol of quality, safety, and community in the retirement living sector.

This job listing provides a comprehensive overview of the company's profile, history, values, and current opportunities. It is designed to attract top talent who share a passion for delivering exceptional living experiences and driving business growth in a meaningful industry.

Company History and Business Evolution

McCarthy Stone was founded in 1977 by John McCarthy and David Stone, two visionaries who recognised the growing demand for purpose-built retirement housing in the UK. The first development opened in Bournemouth, and from that humble beginning, the company steadily expanded its footprint across the South East. In the 1980s, McCarthy Stone pioneered the concept of 'retirement apartments for sale and rent,' offering older adults a way to downsize without sacrificing quality or independence.

The 1990s marked a period of rapid growth, with the company going public on the London Stock Exchange in 1992. Acquisitions of regional developers like Wates Retirement and Richmond Retirement accelerated expansion into the Midlands and North West. By the turn of the millennium, McCarthy Stone had become the UK's largest retirement housing specialist, with over 20,000 homes built.

In 2006, the company was acquired by the private equity firm Permira, which helped streamline operations and invest in new technologies. Following the 2008 financial crisis, McCarthy Stone adapted its business model to include rental and part-purchase schemes, making its homes more accessible. In 2015, it was acquired by the international investment group Elliott Advisors, and in 2018, it merged with Retirement Living Group, further consolidating its market position.

Today, McCarthy Stone operates over 500 retirement developments and continues to innovate with smart home features, integrated healthcare services, and sustainable building practices. The company's recent focus on 'Integrated Retirement Communities' – combining sale, rental, and care options on a single site – has set a new standard for the industry. This evolution demonstrates a deep understanding of the changing needs of an ageing population and a commitment to staying ahead of market trends.

McCarthy Stone at a Glance

• Headquarters: Bournemouth, United Kingdom
• Founded: 1977 by John McCarthy and David Stone
• CEO: John Tonkiss (as of 2023)
• Annual Revenue: Approximately £700 million (2023/24)
• Employees: Over 2,000
• Number of Developments: 500+ across England, Scotland, and Wales
• Homes Built: Over 55,000
• Market Position: Largest retirement living provider in the UK
• Industry Awards: Housebuilder of the Year (Later Living) 2022, 2023, 2024; 5-Star HBF Rating
• Services: Retirement apartments for sale and rent, assisted living, luxury care homes
• Parent Company: Private (backed by Elliott Advisors)
• Customer Base: Homeowners aged 55+
• Key Competitors: Churchill Retirement Living, Pegasus Life, Anchor Hanover
• Website: www.mccarthystone.co.uk
• Social Media: Active on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube
• Charity Partnerships: Independent Age, Alzheimer's Society
• Sustainability Goal: Net Zero carbon by 2040
• Innovation: Smart home technology, communal wellness facilities
• Employee Recognition: Part of 'Best Companies to Work For' lists
• Customer Satisfaction: 97% would recommend McCarthy Stone to a friend

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Mission: To provide exceptional later-living homes that enable older people to live independently, safely, and socially, with access to care when needed.

Vision: To be the first choice for retirement living in the UK, setting the benchmark for quality, innovation, and customer care.

Core Values:Customer First – Every decision starts with the resident's wellbeing. Integrity – Honest communication and ethical practices. Innovation – Continuous improvement of homes and services. Collaboration – Working with local communities, healthcare providers, and partners. Respect – Valuing employees, residents, and the environment.

These values are embedded in daily operations, from the design of communal gardens to the training of sales staff. McCarthy Stone regularly surveys residents and employees to ensure alignment with its mission. The company also publishes an annual ESG report, transparently tracking progress on diversity, carbon reduction, and community investment.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

McCarthy Stone's strategy focuses on three pillars: portfolio expansion, operational excellence, and brand differentiation. The company plans to develop 3,000 new retirement homes annually over the next five years, targeting prime locations near shops, transport links, and healthcare. This expansion includes a mix of sale and rental properties to cater to different financial capacities.

Operationally, McCarthy Stone is investing in digital platforms to streamline customer journeys from enquiry to move-in. A new CRM system and virtual tour tools have already reduced sales cycles by 20%. The company is also piloting 'care at home' services, allowing residents to access professional healthcare without leaving their apartments.

Brand differentiation comes through community building – each development hosts a dedicated events manager who organises activities, clubs, and outings. This social focus is a key selling point. Looking ahead, McCarthy Stone aims to achieve net-zero carbon by 2040 through energy-efficient designs, renewable energy sources, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure at all new developments.

The company is also exploring partnerships with local councils to develop intergenerational communities, where retirement living sits alongside family housing, promoting inclusivity. This forward-thinking roadmap ensures McCarthy Stone remains resilient in a competitive market.

Products, Technologies, and Services

McCarthy Stone offers three main product lines: Retirement Apartments for Sale (leasehold with deferred management fees), Retirement Rentals (affordable assured shorthold tenancies), and Luxury Care Homes (with 24-hour nursing). Each product is tailored to different life stages within the 55+ demographic.

Technology plays a vital role: homes feature emergency call systems, smart lighting, keyless entry, and integrated touchscreens for booking communal facilities. The company's proprietary 'McCarthy Stone Living' app allows residents and families to view activity timetables, meal menus, and maintenance requests.

Services include a dedicated 'Lifestyle Team' that plans social events, fitness classes, and educational workshops. On-site facilities typically include a restaurant, bar, lounge, library, hair salon, and landscaped gardens. For rental and care residents, the 'Love to Move' programme offers gentle exercise classes proven to improve mobility and wellbeing.

In 2023, McCarthy Stone launched a 'Home Adaptations' service, offering personalised modifications such as grab rails, walk-in showers, and stairlifts for existing homes – even those not owned by McCarthy Stone – generating additional revenue while fulfilling its mission.

Industries and Markets Served

McCarthy Stone operates primarily in the UK residential real estate sector, with a niche focus on the later-living market. The company serves homeowners aged 55 and over, including those who are active and independent, those requiring minimal support, and those needing full-time nursing care.

Geographically, McCarthy Stone has a strong presence in southern England, but has expanded into the Midlands, North West, Scotland, and Wales. Key markets include coastal towns (e.g., Bournemouth, Eastbourne), commuter belts (e.g., Surrey, Berkshire), and rural retirement hotspots.

Beyond individual homeowners, McCarthy Stone works with local government authorities to provide affordable retirement housing, and with private investors who purchase rental units as a buy-to-let opportunity. The company also collaborates with healthcare providers such as the NHS and private care agencies to integrate health services within its communities.

Industry analysts predict steady growth in the retirement housing sector due to the ageing UK population – by 2030, one in five residents will be over 65. McCarthy Stone is well-positioned to capture this demand, having already established a multi-channel sales model including direct sales, estate agents, and online platforms.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

McCarthy Stone's leadership team is headed by CEO John Tonkiss, who joined in 2021 after leading the Retirement Living division. The executive board includes experienced professionals in finance, operations, sales, and care services. Management philosophy centres on servant leadership – leaders are expected to support frontline staff and residents.

The company encourages open-door policies and 'town hall' meetings where ideas from all levels are heard. A 'Resident Advisory Panel' meets quarterly to provide direct feedback to senior management. This bottom-up approach has resulted in innovations such as pet-friendly policies and extended visiting hours.

McCarthy Stone invests heavily in leadership development, offering internal courses, mentoring, and sponsorship for professional qualifications. The company's aim is to cultivate a pipeline of future leaders who understand both the business and the emotional needs of the elderly. This philosophy contributes to low turnover rates among managers and high employee engagement scores.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

McCarthy Stone actively participates in industry events such as Later Living Expo, UKREiiF, and the Housing LIN Conference. The company also hosts its own annual 'Celebration of Later Living' event, showcasing new designs and resident stories.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the brand. Each development runs an 'Open Day' twice a year, inviting neighbours to tour the facilities and enjoy refreshments. Many homes partner with local schools for intergenerational choir sessions and gardening projects. The 'McCarthy Stone Foundation' supports charities such as Independent Age and Alzheimer's Society, raising over £500,000 in 2023.

Employees are encouraged to volunteer for 'Community Service Days,' which have included litter picks, decorating community centres, and tech support for older adults. These activities strengthen local ties and enhance the company's reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With over 2,000 employees, McCarthy Stone fosters a culture of inclusivity, wellbeing, and continuous learning. The workforce is diverse, with a significant proportion of female leaders (40% of senior roles). Flexible working arrangements are available for office and site-based roles.

The company provides comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance, pension contributions, employee assistance programme, and discounts on McCarthy Stone homes for staff and their parents. An annual 'Employee Hero' award recognises those who go above and beyond.

Training is robust: new starters undergo a two-week induction covering company history, safeguarding, and customer service. Monthly 'Lunch and Learn' sessions cover topics from dementia awareness to financial planning. The company also offers career progression pathways: over 30% of vacancies are filled internally.

Employee feedback is gathered through the 'Your Voice' survey, which consistently scores above 85% satisfaction. Common praise includes supportive management, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging. The culture is often described as 'family-like' but professional.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Role: Sales and Marketing Executive

Location: Bournemouth, with travel to developments across the South Coast

Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 per annum plus bonus (10-20% of base)

Job Type: Full-time, permanent

Reporting to: Regional Sales Manager

Responsibilities

• Manage the sales process from initial enquiry to reservation for a portfolio of retirement apartments.
• Conduct sales presentations both on-site and via virtual tours, highlighting the benefits of McCarthy Stone living.
• Implement local marketing campaigns – including social media advertising, leaflet drops, and events – to generate leads.
• Build relationships with local estate agents, legal firms, and financial advisors to create referral networks.
• Maintain accurate CRM records and provide weekly sales forecasts to management.
• Coordinate 'open days' and 'coffee mornings' at the development to engage potential buyers.
• Support customers through the reservation and exchange process, liaising with solicitors and mortgage brokers.
• Monitor competitor activity and suggest pricing or promotional adjustments.

Qualifications

• Proven sales experience (2+ years) in property, retirement living, or luxury goods.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Comfortable with digital tools (CRM, Microsoft Office, social media).
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.
• Empathy and patience – ability to understand the needs of older customers.
• Self-motivated and target-driven.

Why Join McCarthy Stone?

• Be part of a market leader that genuinely improves people's lives.
• Generous bonus scheme and performance incentives.
• 24 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing with service.
• Pension scheme with 6% employer contribution.
• Healthcare cash plan and employee discounts.
• Career progression opportunities into regional or national roles.
• Company car or car allowance for frequent travellers.

McCarthy Stone is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

McCarthy Stone's reputation is built on decades of delivering quality homes and resident satisfaction. Below we analyse feedback from major review platforms.

GLASSDOOR

On Glassdoor, McCarthy Stone holds a rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews. Employees praise the company's mission, supportive colleagues, and training opportunities. Common pros include 'meaningful work' and 'good work-life balance.' Cons mention 'bureaucracy' and 'occasional understaffing' in care homes. The CEO approval rating stands at 80%.

INDEED

Indeed reviews give McCarthy Stone an average of 3.6 stars. Positive comments highlight the friendly atmosphere, manageable workload, and strong brand reputation. Negative feedback often centres on pay levels for support roles and limited progression in some departments. The company responds to reviews, demonstrating a commitment to improvement.

GARTNER PEER INSIGHTS

As a user of various technology platforms, McCarthy Stone receives mixed reviews on Gartner Peer Insights for CRM solutions, but overall satisfaction is 4.1 out of 5. Users appreciate the ease of integration and vendor support.

TRUSTPILOT

Trustpilot is a key source for customer reviews: McCarthy Stone holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating from over 2,000 reviews. Residents highlight the quality of communal areas, friendly staff, and sense of community. Negative reviews occasionally mention service charge increases or delays in defect repairs. The company actively responds to all feedback.

G2

G2 reviews are less common for a property company, but the few related to their sales enablement tools rate 4.0 out of 5 for usability and functionality.

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Individual development sites have their own Google reviews, averaging 4.5 stars. Popular locations like Bournemouth and Solihull receive high praise for location, design, and resident activities. Negative reviews typically relate to parking issues or noise.

LINKEDIN REPUTATION

McCarthy Stone's LinkedIn page has over 120,000 followers and posts daily content highlighting awards, employee stories, and development showcases. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with comments praising the company's leadership and sector innovation.

Why Organizations Choose McCarthy Stone

Local authorities, healthcare commissioners, and investors choose McCarthy Stone for its unrivalled experience and scale. The company's track record of delivering complex retirement developments on time and within budget makes it a reliable partner. Its 'Housing with Care' models reduce burden on the NHS by enabling older people to live independently longer.

Investors appreciate the dual revenue stream from sales and rentals, plus the growing demographic tailwind. McCarthy Stone's strong balance sheet and private ownership provide stability even during economic downturns. Additionally, the company's commitment to ESG aligns with institutional investors' criteria for responsible investment.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to McCarthy Stone using the following contact details:

Address: McCarthy Stone, The Boulevard, Westpoint, Bournemouth BH5 2DF, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0)1202 292400
Support Number: +44 (0)800 634 2222
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0)345 272 7000
Website: www.mccarthystone.co.uk

Official Social Media Presence

• LinkedIn:McCarthy Stone
• Facebook:@McCarthyStone
• Twitter:@McCarthyStone
• Instagram:@McCarthyStone
• YouTube:McCarthy Stone

SEO FAQ Section

McCarthy Stone is known as the UK’s leading retirement living developer, providing high-quality homes and communities for people aged 55 and over.

McCarthy Stone is headquartered in Bournemouth, England.

McCarthy Stone was founded by John McCarthy and David Stone in 1977.

McCarthy Stone has built over 55,000 retirement homes across the UK.

Yes, McCarthy Stone offers both retirement apartments for sale and affordable rental properties.

The salary range for a Sales Executive at McCarthy Stone is typically £25,000 to £35,000 plus bonus.

You can apply via their official website’s careers page or through job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn.

McCarthy Stone’s core values are Customer First, Integrity, Innovation, Collaboration, and Respect.

Yes, McCarthy Stone aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

McCarthy Stone has won multiple Housebuilder of the Year (Later Living) awards and holds a 5-star HBF rating.

McCarthy Stone employs over 2,000 people.

McCarthy Stone reports a 97% recommendation rate from residents.

Yes, some communities offer assisted living and full nursing care.

Homes include emergency call systems, smart locks, and a resident app.

You can call 0800 634 2222 or email enquiries@mccarthystone.co.uk.

Yes, employees can participate in community service days and charity events.

Yes, employees are offered a workplace pension with employer contributions.

McCarthy Stone is active on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Yes, rental units can be purchased as buy-to-let investments.

McCarthy Stone has a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot.

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