Ian Playford, former Group Property Director at Kingfisher and Chief Executive of the Government Property Agency, has been appointed as Non Executive Chairman of Ashfield Land.

Established in 1990 by Andrew Fisher and Robin Faber, Ashfield Land has grown successfully through three decades and works nationally from offices in London, Bristol, Birmingham and Glasgow.

Ian Playford will focus on working with Andrew Fisher and Robin Faber, the company’s current management team, to strengthen the business and its operating structure.

Andrew Fisher, Managing Director at Ashfield Land, said: “Ian will play an important role in bringing fresh thinking and a fresh perspective as our first Non Executive Chairman. He has a wealth of experience and his insight will ensure we continue to grow the business and operate at the forefront of the market.”

Ian Playford, Non Executive Chairman at Ashfield Land, said: “I’ve admired Ashfield Land’s effectiveness for many years and it’s great to be joining a team of quality professionals who are positioned well and eager to grow in the face of a challenging market. Where I’m hoping to make a difference is in bringing in some new ideas around how we structure and operate the business. This is an exciting opportunity and I’m looking forward to it.”

Ashfield Land works across the commercial and residential sectors focusing on strategic land, development and investment.

Current projects include Two 74, a major commercial and mixed-use development off Junction 2 of the M74 near Glasgow, Rail Central, a proposed Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) off Junction 15A of the M1 near Northampton, Sinclair Retail Park, a new retail development in Evesham and The Approach, a consented corporate HQ office development opportunity at Bristol Parkway.

Ian Playford’s CV includes, in addition to his roles with Kingfisher and Government Property Agency, experience as a Partner at King Sturge and a Fund Manager at Aviva. In addition to his Non Executive Chairman role with Ashfield Land, Ian has a broader portfolio of Non Executive and advisory positions including as a Non Executive Director with HM Courts and Tribunal Service, Chair at Kingsbridge Estates Ltd and Chair at Innovation Gateway Ltd.