Derwent London braces for leadership change as veteran CEO Paul Williams retires

Derwent London is preparing for a major leadership transition, with Chief Executive Paul Williams confirming plans to step down after almost four decades with the business. He will stay in post until a successor is appointed, ensuring continuity as the company positions itself to benefit from a strengthening London office market.

Paul Williams’ retirement brings to a close a defining chapter in Derwent London’s history. Over the course of his career, he has played a central role in shaping the group’s direction and development, leaving a lasting mark on both the company’s portfolio and London’s commercial landscape.

Having joined the company in the late 1980s, Williams rose through the organisation with responsibility across leasing, asset management and development before being appointed Chief Executive in 2019. His leadership has overseen a period of strategic focus, disciplined capital recycling and the build-out of a high-quality portfolio in prime London locations.

The announcement comes at a constructive point in the cycle for London offices. Working closely with the board, Williams has helped position the balance sheet and development pipeline to capture renewed occupational demand as market momentum gathers pace.

Derwent London will maintain steady leadership as it initiates the process to name its next Chief Executive, with the search set to begin immediately under the leadership of Chair Mark Breuer.

Paying tribute, Breuer highlighted Williams’ long-standing contribution: “I would like to thank Paul for his dedication and commitment over the last 38 years. During his distinguished career, including his tenure as Chief Executive, he has made an outstanding contribution to Derwent London.”

Williams added: “It has been a huge privilege to have been part of the Derwent story and to have had the opportunity to lead the business over the last six years. I am very proud of what we have achieved, positioning the business with world class assets in prime locations across London, attracting sustained and strong occupational demand.”

Williams remains fully focused on driving performance until the handover is complete. Whilst his retirement marks the end of an era, it also sets the stage for fresh leadership to guide the business through the evolving London office market, carrying forward the vision and momentum he has cultivated over nearly four decades.

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