​The Crown Estate Chairman Sir Stuart Hampson to retire

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Feb 1, 2016

The Crown Estate announced on Monday that its Chairman, Sir Stuart Hampson, is to retire this summer after six years in the role.

Sir Stuart Hamspon joined The Crown Estate in 2010, after a 14-year long post as Chair of the John Lewis Partnership. At the Crown Estate, Hampson oversaw a £1.5 billion regeneration scheme of Regent Street and St James’s, and the appointment of Chief Executive Alison Nimmo in 2012. 

Sir Stuart Hampson said: “It’s been an enormous privilege to hold one of the best jobs in real estate over the last few years.”

During his tenure, The Crown Estate increased its return to the nation’s finances by 35% to £285.1 million in 2015, and totalling £1.5 billion since 2010. The company’s central London redevelopment schemes, the growth of the offshore wind industry, and the establishment of a major new retail park portfolio, have been key drivers during this period of a 73% increase in the capital value of the business to £11.5 billion. 

The Exchequer Secretary, Damian Hinds said: “Sir Stuart’s insight and experience has been invaluable.  During his six years, he and his team have visibly transformed The Crown Estate from a traditional landed estate to a modern progressive commercial business. Sir Stuart has given outstanding public service securing £1.5 billion for the nation’s finances during his Chairmanship.”

The Crown Estate is a diverse portfolio of lands and holdings in the UK, created by Act of Parliament, and with assets under management worth £12.5 billion. It is independently managed and pays its profit entirely to Treasury.

According to a statement, The Crown Estate is currently advertising for a new Chairman, who will be appointed by HM The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister.