John Lewis has named Royal Mail executive Martin Gafsen as its next director of property, effective 15 November.
Gafsen succeeds Chris Harris, who announced back in June that he would be stepping down from his role after more than five years with the business.
He will be responsible for leading the strategy and management of the Partnership’s property portfolio.
Gafsen joins from Royal Mail Group where he was the property and facilities director for the last 16 years.
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He was responsible for leading the strategy of its nationwide freehold and leasehold estate, including facilities management, construction and development.
Prior to that, he spent six years in the corporate finance team at Paribas Investment bank and held several finance roles at other companies.
John Lewis finance director Bérangère Michel said Gafsen’s “wealth of experience will be instrumental in helping to deliver our future growth”.
Gafsen said: “It’s a great privilege to join the Partnership, home to two of the UK’s most loved brands.
“With an extensive and valuable property portfolio, we have an important role to play in ensuring it continues delivering value for the long term benefit of customers and Partners for generations to come.”
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