John Clare was previously group chief executive of Dixons Group between 1993 and 2007 and a non-executive director of Hammerson between 1988 and 2009. His other current directorships include Dreams plc the specialist bed retailer, and Dyson Ltd.

The company's focus shifts once again to growing the business.

Chairman
John Clare

Paul Stobart, Capital & Regional's senior independent director, said: "We are delighted to have been able to attract such an experienced and distinguished business leader to succeed Tom Chandos. The board very much looks forward to working with John as the company's focus shifts once again to growing the business."

And John Clare commented: "I am delighted to be joining the Capital & Regional board as its chairman. This remains a challenging time for the property sector but I am very confident that the company has the necessary skills and experience to deliver good returns for its shareholders over the next few years and I look forward to being a part of that future."