The Board of Revo, the organisation that represents the UK’s £360 billion retail property and placemaking sector, has commenced a search for a new CEO having agreed a succession plan with Ed Cooke, who has indicated his intention to step down from the organisation after 11 years.
He will remain at the helm until the spring, or until such time as a new CEO is appointed, to ensure an orderly handover, having successfully led the repositioning of the organisation and executed the current five year plan.
Mark Robinson, Revo President said: “On behalf of the Board and membership I would like to thank Ed for what amounts to over a decade’s service to our industry. Over the last four years as CEO, Ed has been instrumental in leading a profound change in the purpose and role of Revo, including its rebrand and repositioning, ensuring it now represents our broadening membership as our industry goes through major structural change.
“Revo is on a strong footing and has never had a higher profile, which is critical in representing and reflecting the views of our members across the market and to local and national government, where we are a key influencer through the MHCLG Future High Streets Forum, the HMT Business Rates Expert Advisory Group, and DWP Retail Forum.
“A thorough search process is underway for a new CEO who will lead the organisation, with the support of the board, through the next phase of its evolution, setting our strategic agenda and to continue to advocate on behalf of all our members.”
RPA Perspective Ed Cooke has been an active and likable CEO and he will take some replacing, especially given his experience in political lobbying, which has become increasingly important.
Ed Cooke, Revo CEO said: “A lot has been achieved by the Revo team over the last few years on behalf of members, including policy wins on business rates, planning and high street infrastructure funding, and I am pleased to leave the business with a stronger reputation, greater influence, and financially more secure. Now is the right time for new leadership to steer the organisation through the next stages of its journey.
“It has been a real privilege leading Revo. We have a great team of dedicated staff and member volunteers, a strong and dedicated Board of Non-Executives, and the future looks bright for the organisation. There is much work to be done, but I have absolute faith that the future of our urban centres will sustain, as they continue to adapt to changing consumer needs and lifestyles.”
Revo has over 2,300 members ranging from sole traders to FTSE 100 companies, and organisations in the private and public sectors. Through its proactive campaigns, forging of effective partnerships, lobbying, events, education programme and media profile, Revo aims to promote and facilitate the growth and development of the retail property industry, which is vital to the UK economy.
Over recent years the organisation has strategically evolved with the sector, in recognition of the new role that retail and leisure plays in creating and sustaining vibrant local communities where people can live, work and play. To that end, it has been a stand out voice on the reforms required to support the long term health of the UK’s high streets and town centres, including the current business rates system.
The annual Revo conference will take place in Liverpool this year from 17-19 September.
