In this new position, Simon will take on responsibility for Hammerson’s premium outlets division in addition to his existing Investment responsibilities. Simon will assume his new role once CFO and current Premium Outlets MD, Timon Drakesmith, has left the business, and will report directly to CEO David Atkins.
Simon joined Hammerson in 1998, and has held a number of roles including Investment Manager and Business Development Director. He joined the Group Executive Committee as Group Investment Director in 2018. Simon led the early phases of Hammerson’s expansion in premium outlets and was instrumental in the establishment of VIA outlets in 2014.
Premium outlets now accounts for 27% of Hammerson’s property portfolio, and the business continued to outperform in the first half of 2019. Both Value Retail and VIA Outlets saw a double digit uplift in brand sales in the six months to 30 June 2019, as well as 7% and 8% increases in footfall respectively. Hammerson currently has interests in 20 outlets in 14 European countries, offering 450,000 sq m of retail space for international luxury and fashion brands.
Given the business’ strategic focus on debt reduction, Hammerson has also appointed Bruce Nutman to the role of Senior Investment Manager, reporting to Simon Travis. Bruce has specialised in retail investment for over 20 years, most recently at leading industry adviser Time Retail Partners.
David Atkins, Hammerson Chief Executive, said: “Simon’s appointment will strengthen our already talented premium outlets team, and his experience and leadership will be invaluable as the business seeks to create further value for its guests, brand partners, employees and investors. Premium outlets continues to deliver exceptional results, and is well placed to take advantage of the broader trends we are seeing in the market, such as the growth in shopping-tourism, and the popularity of off-price luxury.”
