James Raynor, Chief Executive of Grosvenor Property UK, has been elected as Chair of the Westminster Property Association (“WPA”) at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today (6 May).
Raynor, who will be joined by newly appointed Vice Chair, Dan Nicholson, Executive Director at GPE, will serve a two-year-term guiding WPA’s policy work and engagement.
At the AGM Raynor also secured the Board’s support for his business plan during his tenure, which includes three pillars of activity centred on supporting economic growth, sustainability and inclusivity in Westminster.
James Raynor, Chair, Westminster Property Association, said: “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair. I look forward to working with WPA members, Westminster City Council and other stakeholders to help secure a successful West End which drives economic and social prosperity.
“This in an incredibly unique area with a blend of best-in-class office and retail space, alongside world leading cultural and leisure experiences which attract workers, visitors and residents alike. We want to build on its success and help spread the benefits of growth across Westminster and beyond.”
Raynor, who previously served as WPA Vice Chair, has over 30 years’ experience in the property industry. He joined Grosvenor in 2019 and spent nine years in Paris where he led international fund management activity before being appointed Chief Executive of Grosvenor’s UK property business in 2020.
He succeeds Marcus Geddes, Managing Director, Workplace at Landsec, following his successful two-year tenure as Chair during which time the WPA has played a central role in shaping emerging planning and development policy. Under Marcus’ leadership, WPA also galvanised support from Board member companies to fund a £255,000 Mastering My Future (MMF) programme, which provides work experience, skills and training for Westminster’s young people in the sector.
The AGM also saw the official appointment of Kelly Cleveland, British Land’s Head of Real Estate and Investment to the Board.
Marcus Geddes, former WPA Chair and Managing Director, Workplace, Landsec, added: “It has been a privilege to lead the organisation over the past two years. Westminster’s property industry plays a critical role in its economic success and is well placed to support the City’s long-term social prosperity.
“One of my proudest achievements as Chair has been WPA’s work in supporting young people and helping to open up the industry to new talent from a wider mix of backgrounds. I am confident the Association will continue to go from strength-to-strength under James’ leadership.”
Charles Begley, Chief Executive, Westminster Property Association added: “On behalf of WPA members I would like to congratulate James on becoming Chair of the WPA. His experience and insight will be invaluable as we work with Westminster City Council to unlock ‘Good Growth’ through development.
“I would also like to recognise the significant contribution of Marcus who has helped steer the Association through a challenging period for the property sector, freely giving up his time and expertise to help drive our programme and political engagement.”
