David Atkins set to take on the role as John Richards announces his retirement

David Atkins has been appointed chief executive of Hammerson following the retirement of John Richards in the autumn.

Richards had been chief executive for the past 10 years, and had been with the property developer Hammerson for almost 30 years.

Atkins is at present managing director of Hammerson's UK business, and will succeed Richards as chief executive on 1 October.

Richards said: 鈥淚 have been discussing the future leadership of the company with the board for some time and I am delighted that David has been selected to succeed me. We have worked together for 11 years and I am confident he will continue to drive the business forward.鈥�

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