Member Article

Countryside Properties appoints new Executive Chairman

Countryside Properties Plc is pleased to announce that Ian Sutcliffe has been appointed Executive Chairman to lead the Company in implementing its long-term growth plans.

Following a number of senior roles at Shell, Ian was appointed UK Managing Director of George Wimpey and subsequently UK Chief Executive and board member at Taylor Wimpey. He followed this with a similar role at SEGRO, before becoming Chief Executive of Keepmoat Ltd. He is also a Non-Executive Director of Ashtead Group plc. Ian therefore brings substantial development and property expertise together with a broader business perspective, to Countryside Properties.

Ian will succeed Andrew Carr-Locke from October. Andrew will remain as a Non-Executive Director of the business, while all other main board Directors including Richard and Graham Cherry and Wendy Colgrave will continue in their existing roles.

Ian Sutcliffe’s appointment follows the acquisition in early 2013 of the Countryside Group by funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P, together with the Cherry family and management. The transaction resulted in a significant capital injection which is being used to strengthen Countryside Properties’ balance sheet and finance the execution of the Company’s growth strategy.

Ian Sutcliffe commented: “I am delighted to be joining Countryside Properties at such an exciting time in its history. It is a company with strong assets and great people. With the recent investment I look forward to growing the existing business and enhancing its already strong reputation further. “

Andrew Carr-Locke, Chairman, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Ian to the Company. Ian will be able to apply his substantial experience to help us grow the business as the housing market recovery continues. All existing board members and I look forward to working with Ian.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Shimwell .