Crown Estate chairman to step down

Sir Stuart Hampson, chairman of The Crown Estate, will retire this summer after six years in the role.

Hampson, a former chairman of John Lewis for 14 years, joined The Crown Estate in 2010. Under his watch the company, which owns properties in London’s West End and the UK and pays its profit to the treasury, has increased the firm's profits by 35 percent to 285.1 million pounds in 2015, totalling 1.5 billion pounds since 2010.

Commenting on his departure, Hampson said: “It’s been an enormous privilege to hold one of the best jobs in real estate over the last few years. I‘m more confident than ever that this model, and the quality of its talented people, will ensure The Crown Estate continues to be a UK success story and outperform its peers.”

The Exchequer Secretary, Damian Hinds added: “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.”

The Crown Estate is currently seeking his replacement, who will be appointed by HM The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Image: The Crown Estate - Sir Stuart Hampson