Hammerson: Resignation of Lawrence Hutchings

"Hammerson plc announces that Lawrence Hutchings, Managing Director of UK retail and member of the Group Executive Committee, has decided to step down from the business, as he will be taking a sabbatical, during which he will spend time in Australia for family reasons. He will leave the business at the end of September.

"Hammerson has significantly strengthened its UK retail team over the last twelve months, creating new roles at a senior level to enhance our international experience, further increase our focus on tenants' requirements and improve the commercial focus of the business.

"The three operational divisions of the UK retail business will report directly to David Atkins, Chief Executive:

• Martin Plocica will become Director, UK Shopping Centres; 
• Andrew Berger-North remains Director, Retail Parks, and 
• Simon Travis will continue to be responsible for managing Hammerson's investment in Value Retail.

"David Atkins, Chief Executive, said:

Link to Retail Gazette

"In his four years at Hammerson, Lawrence has made a major contribution to the way we manage our retail assets and developments.
[For instance, he recently fronted Hammerson's presentation to Croydon's Strategic Planning Committee, a week after Westfield had done so.]

I understand his reasons for leaving, and naturally I'm sorry to see him go. I thank him for all he has done for us, and I wish him well for the future."