Hammerson Taps Real Estate Veteran Rob Wilkinson as New CEO

Hammerson, a prominent player in the real estate sector, announced a significant leadership transition this Tuesday with the appointment of Rob Wilkinson as its incoming Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Wilkinson is slated to commence his integration into the company by joining the board on 15 December, taking on the crucial role of CEO designate. His full responsibilities as the permanent CEO will officially begin on 1 January 2026, marking a new chapter for the firm.

This appointment comes as Mr. Wilkinson prepares to succeed Rita-Rose Gagné, who earlier in June disclosed her intention to retire from Hammerson in 2026. Ms. Gagné has successfully led the company for five years, a period characterised by substantial strategic initiatives. Her tenure has notably overseen a major turnaround of Hammerson's portfolio and a comprehensive restructuring of the firm, leaving a strong foundation for her successor.

To ensure a seamless and effective transition, Ms. Gagné will continue to lead the business throughout the remainder of 2025. This extended period will allow for an orderly transfer of her extensive responsibilities and insights to Mr. Wilkinson. Following this handover, she will step down from her role as CEO and from the board of directors on 31 December 2025, concluding a impactful five-year period at the helm.

Mr. Wilkinson brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in the property sector. He joins Hammerson from real estate investment management specialist AEW Europe, where he served as Chief Executive for over 11 years. His journey at AEW began in 2009, initially as Chief Investment Officer in Europe, a role he held until his promotion to CEO in 2014, demonstrating a consistent track record of leadership and strategic acumen.

His impressive career spans three decades in real estate investment markets, encompassing previous significant roles at Goodman Group, Eurohypo, and UBS. Furthermore, his expertise extends to non-executive board positions, having served as a non-executive director at residential landlord Grainger from 2015 to 2023, and currently as a non-executive director of commercial landlord Derwent London since 2024. Academically, Mr. Wilkinson is a qualified chartered accountant and holds a law degree from the prestigious University of Cambridge, underscoring his robust financial and legal understanding.

In terms of remuneration, Mr. Wilkinson will receive a gross annual salary of £620,000. Additionally, his compensation package includes a pension allowance and other awards specifically designed to account for bonuses he will forfeit upon departing his previous employer. This comprehensive package reflects the significance of his role and his extensive experience in the industry.

Robert Noel, Hammerson chair, expressed considerable enthusiasm regarding the new appointment. He lauded Mr. Wilkinson as “an established and proven real estate leader who brings a wealth of experience and a track record of delivering shareholder value.” Mr. Noel further highlighted the thoroughness of the selection process, stating, “Through a rigorous recruitment process, Rob stood out from a strong field of candidates as someone who was able to translate strategic insight into shareholder value creation through exceptional leadership,” signalling confidence in his ability to drive Hammerson’s future growth and success.