H&H Group has made two significant appointments.
Mark Johnson has been named as chief operating officer, a newly created role within the company, effective from November 1.
Currently managing director of the group’s H&H Land & Estates business, Mark brings many years of senior leadership experience in significant businesses to his new appointment. In his new role, Mark will support the operational management of all business divisions within H&H Group plc.
H&H Land & Estates director, Tim Sedgewick, steps up to the role of managing director for the group’s land agency and property business.
Tim has been a pivotal member of the company’s leadership team and brings with him over a decade of expertise in property advice, development, and land agency, it said.
Mark, who was born and bred in Cumbria, has a wealth of experience in programme and project management, capital investment planning, and delivery.
Prior to joining H&H Land & Estates, Mark’s previous role saw him undertake the role of head of strategy and policy at Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership. Prior to that, Mark held the role of head of site for major projects at BAE Systems in Barrow.
In his new role, Mark will support day-to-day operations across H&H Group’s portfolio of businesses, collaborating with and reporting directly to H&H Group CEO Richard Rankin, and supporting the non-executive directors, and the managing directors to ensure the seamless execution of the company’s long-term strategy.
Mr Rankin said; “The creation of the COO role is an exciting and forward-thinking development for the group, and Mark is perfect for this position.
“His leadership experience and strong understanding of our business operations make him the ideal choice to make a positive difference. Not only will Mark be my eyes and ears on the ground but, together with our operational board, he will help drive and deliver our group-wide operational and strategic goals.”
Mr Johnson added: “I am thrilled to take on this new role at H&H Group and I am committed to supporting our teams as we continue to grow and evolve. While my focus will be on the operational management of the entire group, I remain dedicated to working closely with the H&H Land and Estates team through this important transition period. I look forward to collaborating with Richard, and the teams at each site to drive continued success.”
H&H Land & Estates has established itself as a noted property, lettings, and land agency, and is a prominent specialist in the rural sector, supporting the needs of farmers, agri-businesses, and all land and property owners. As managing director Mr Sedgewick, who has been involved in the agricultural sector his whole life, and is highly respected within the industry, will be responsible for the direct day-to-day running of the business, growing its portfolio and profile and maximising opportunities.
Mr Rankin added: “This is a crucial appointment for the business as it adapts and grows to meet the opportunities and challenges of change. Tim has consistently demonstrated an ability to navigate complex land transactions and provide strategic advice across a wide range of sectors, including property, renewable energy, and development land.
“Among his many strengths, his relationship-building skills ensure the best outcomes for both clients and colleagues, and his in-depth knowledge of the land and property sector, combined with his hands-on approach, has made him a trusted advisor and leader within H&H Land & Estates.”
Mr Sedgewick, who lives with his wife Jessica, and their two young sons on the family farm in County Durham said: “I am honoured to step into the role of managing director at H&H Land & Estates. This is a time of great opportunity, and the company has an outstanding team, so I am looking forward to continuing our efforts together as we build on our strong reputation and deliver outstanding results for our clients. I am committed to a people-centred approach whilst also exploring new prospects to grow and innovate in an ever-changing property landscape.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Johnson for his constant support, faith, friendship, and reassurance. I very much value his wisdom and look forward to working with him in his new role as H&H Group chief operations officer. I also look forward to working with our senior management team, and in particular alongside my colleague Mark Barrow who heads up the south lakes team, to enhance and increase the growth the business has seen in recent years.”
