Ex-John Lewis property boss’ fledgling firm appoints asset manager

Vedra Group, the retail-focused real estate advisory firm set up by former John Lewis head of property Chris Harris, has appointed Kerry Northfold as asset manager.

Northfold joins from fashion retailer M&Co where, as head of property, she was responsible for overseeing the trading and freeholding portfolio.

Prior to her time at M&Co, Northfold was head of property at Marks & Spencer, delivering key transactions and occupational cost savings for the business.

This came after a 17-year stint as group property manager at Arcadia Group, where Northfold was pivotal in the company’s CVA process and developed initiatives to guide Arcadia and the wider retail sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She was appointed as president of the Property Managers Association in February.

The appointment comes as Vedra Group – which was established in late 2023 – states its ambition to become established in the retail asset management sector. The group said Northfold’s significant retail real estate experience will be crucial to expanding its retail occupational services and asset management capabilities.

Chris Harris, managing director of Vedra Group, said: “I am delighted to welcome Kerry to Vedra Group. She brings the ideal blend of retail knowledge, real estate experience and delivery as we continue to expand into the retail asset management sector with a heavy focus on service and value.”

Kerry Northfold added: “I am excited to be joining Vedra at such an exciting time for the business, as it continues its ambitious plans to expand whilst providing first class service, driven by a retail mindset.”

Read more: Chris Harris on his ambitions for Vedra in November 2023.