URC appoints new chief executive

West Bromwich based urban regeneration company RegenCo appointed Karen Walker as its new chief executive.

Karen Walker joins RegenCo on 13 November as chief executive from regeneration consultancy Ripplegate.

The urban regeneration company (URC) for West Bromwich and Smethwick has moved swiftly to appoint an experienced development expert with a heavyweight track record in delivery.

"It's all about delivery now," said Tom Fanning, RegenCo's chair, "and we're sure Karen has all the expertise and experience to hold her own in the property world to make each development knit into the wider RegenCo vision.

"I'm delighted we've secured her services as I believe she will force the pace of change," continued Fanning. "She's a well-known player with a deep knowledge of the industry, occupiers, investors and developers and as such has all the skills to drive home our vision."

"I'm relishing the challenge," says Karen Walker who has previously worked for RegenCo as a consultant. "I'm also looking forward to working more closely with Tom and such an experienced board as well as building closer relationships with all our founding partners - Sandwell Council, Advantage West Midlands and English Partnerships - to spearhead change. In property, performance is the name of the game and I say that without underestimating the challenges ahead. There are real opportunities here and I am keen to ensure that we provide the deliverable development packages that will excite the private sector to join with us."

Source: Estates Gazette