Hammerson finance director Simon Melliss will retire in June and be replaced by Timon Drakesmith

Hammerson announced Melliss’ departure this morning and chairman John Nelson said: “I would like to thank Simon for his enormous contribution to Hammerson over the last 20 years.

“He has played a central role as a board member and as part of the senior management team.

“Simon is one of the longest serving finance directors in the FTSE; a reflection of his dedication and ability. We wish him all the best for the future.”

Melliss joined Hammerson in 1991 and was appointed chief financial officer in 1995, a position he has held since then.

Timon Drakesmith, currently finance director of Great Portland Estates, has been appointed as chief financial officer of Hammerson with effect from the end of May 2011.

Commenting on his appointment, Hammerson chief executive David Atkins said: “I am delighted that Timon Drakesmith is to become our new chief financial officer.

“He is a successor with proven capability and sector expertise, as well as significant wider industry and corporate finance experience.”