Brightstar Group has strengthened its buy-to-let division with the arrival of James Oakley.

It has also added to its commercial team with the recruitment of Jordan Constanti.

Brightstar is currently recruiting for a new national account manager.

The group has announced a record first half of the year, with written business increasing by 21% on the first six months of 2018, turnover increasing by 17% and profit increasing by 15%.

Sirius Property Finance has also continued to grow, with turnover up in the first half of 2019 by 46% compared to the same period last year, and larger offices planned for both London and Manchester, with details to be announced in the future.

This follows the recent appointment of Kimberley Gates as head of partnerships who will lead the development and marketing programme for the business.

Rob Jupp, CEO at The Brightstar Group, said: “It’s been a really incredible first six months to the year for Brightstar. We have continued to smash records in growing our business, relaunched our Private Label proposition and set new standards for an employer in our sector in The Sunday Times Best Company to Work For awards.

“And all this has been set against a market that has been dampened by the looming threat of Brexit. It’s a really great achievement and testament to the hard work and commitment of our team.

“We are in a strong position and looking forward to the future. We also haven’t ruled out any competitor acquisitions and are well placed to make the move if we feel it is right because of our prudent management.”