Hammerson is pleased to announce that it has appointed Simon Betty as Retail Director for Ireland, following the Company's acquisition of the Project Jewel loan portfolio from NAMA in September.

The Project Jewel portfolio comprises loans secured against leading retail assets including Dundrum Town Centre, the ILAC Centre and Swords Pavilions.

Betty, currently Hammerson's Director of Corporate Development, will permanently relocate to Dublin to head up Hammerson's Irish office, which is in the process of being established.

Betty joined Hammerson in 2006 and has worked across a variety of corporate finance and strategic positions, including playing a key role in the reorientation of the business to become a retail specialist. He has also led on major property projects, most recently establishing Hammerson's new headquarters in King's Cross, London, and worked on a number of Hammerson's key retail regeneration projects.

David Atkins, Hammerson CEO, said: 'Simon's appointment reflects the significant opportunity we see in Ireland and our commitment to having a senior Hammerson team on the ground. His broad range of skills and experience perfectly positions Simon to deliver strategic leadership and strengthen our presence in this new market.'

Simon Betty holds an MBA from Cass Business School and is a qualified Chartered Surveyor.
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