John Lewis appoints property director
Martin Gafsen has been appointed as director of property at the John Lewis Partnership, charged with the strategy and management of the group’s property portfolio.
He joins from the Royal Mail Group, where he is currently interim corporate finance director. He had previously held the role of property and facilities director for 16 years, leading the company’s strategy for its nationwide estate, including facilities management, construction, and development.
Gafsen had also spent six years at investment bank Paribas’ corporate finance team.
His appointment comes as the partnership undergoes a £500m joint venture with Abrdn to diversify into residential real estate. The group is aiming to deliver 10,000 new homes over the next decade.
He succeeds Chris Harris, who announced his departure earlier this year after five years at the group.
Martin Gafsen said: “It’s a great privilege to join the partnership, home to two of the UK’s most loved brands. With an extensive and valuable property portfolio, we have an important role to play in ensuring it continues delivering value for the long term benefit of customers and partners for generations to come.”