Mark England, chief executive of BNP Paribas Real Estate UK, is stepping down after a career spanning almost 40 years with the company. Gary Higgins, who is the managing director of subsidiary Strutt & Parker, has been appointed as interim chief executive. England will remain with the business as a senior adviser during the transition period.
The company stated that these leadership changes are intended to ensure an experienced management team is in place while a wider leadership restructuring is completed. Jean-Maxime Jouis, chief executive of BNP Paribas Real Estate, commented that this structure provides continuity, stability, and a clear client focus for the UK business.
In a separate development, Nicky Heathcote, the non-executive chair of the Conveyancing Association (CA), will step down at the end of her second term. She will remain in the role until a successor is appointed to ensure a smooth handover. David Hodgson, treasurer and a founding board member, is also stepping down, and recruitment for both board positions is underway.
Heathcote reflected on her time as chair, highlighting the strengthening of the Association's governance and the development of a member-focused strategy. She will continue her involvement in the sector as chair of the PCCB Compliance Committee and as a member of the Women in Conveyancing Committee.
Additionally, Knight Frank has appointed David Churchill as a partner in its planning team. Churchill brings over 25 years of experience advising on planning and development projects and will focus on strategic land opportunities across the UK.