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Hammerson CEO Rita-Rose Gagné to Hand Over Top Job in 2026

Her departure paves the way for a successor to guide Hammerson’s push into residential development after slashing net debt below £800 million.

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Rita-Rose Gagné’s appoitment as Hammerson chief was initially treated with scepticism

Overview

  • Gagné, who took the helm in November 2020, announced on June 4 that she will step down in 2026 and remain in post for a 12-month transition period.
  • Under her leadership, Hammerson cut net debt from £2.2 billion to below £800 million and reduced its loan-to-value ratio from nearly 50% to 30%.
  • The board has launched a search for her successor as the company positions itself for its next phase of growth.
  • Her disposals programme cut the mall portfolio from 21 flagship destinations and about 20 outlet centres to ten core urban sites.
  • The group estimates it could build around 7,000 homes on land around retained malls and already has a flats project underway at Dublin’s Dundrum Town Centre.