GEORGE DOWNING

CHAIRMAN

The driving force behind Downing’s growth, George is also widely credited for playing a significant role in Liverpool’s regeneration. An early pioneer of city centre student villages, he moved the business into the office and mixed-use development markets in the late 90s, where his passion and vision continues to breathe new life into city centres.

ANN LODGE

JOINT CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Ann plays a leading role in deciding the strategic direction of the business alongside George and Sally. With responsibility for marketing and business development she has been instrumental in establishing the Downing brand and developing the company’s reputation across the north of England.

SALLY O'BRIEN

JOINT CHIEF EXECUTIVE

In addition to being strongly involved in the growth and development of Downing, Sally is responsible for building many of the company’s key commercial and financial relationships. Internally she plays a leading role in recruitment.

PAUL HOUGHTON

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

Leading the group’s urban projects division, Paul is responsible for co-ordinating Downing’s growing portfolio of mixed-use development activity across the UK. He has a track record for overcoming complex planning issues, working in partnership with public authorities and development partners and known for achieving maximum potential from challenging inner city sites.

IAN ORTON

CONSTRUCTION DIRECTOR

Drawing on a 30-year career in the construction industry, Ian leads the company’s in-house contracting division George Downing Construction (GDC). He oversees a team of 45 to manage and deliver major refurbishment and new-build schemes. Under Ian’s tenure GDC has enjoyed three consecutive years of significant growth and is currently active on projects worth in the region of £80 million.

SIMON GARNETT

FINANCE DIRECTOR

With a career history that includes senior financial positions with national developers and house builders, Simon has an excellent working knowledge of funding large scale residential, commercial and regeneration projects. At Downing he oversees the financing of the company ensuring it has a strong platform for growth.

JOHN CLEGG

HEAD OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

John leads Downing’s in-house property management team, with direct responsibility for over 1 million sq ft of commercial office space in Liverpool city centre. His role includes caring for some of the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks and ensuring Downing enjoys a strong relationship with all of its tenants by delivering the highest standards of customer service.

ROBIN ELLIS

SENIOR AGENCY SURVEYOR

A former surveyor with property agency GVA Grimley, Robin is responsible for marketing Downing’s impressive roster of commercial properties. In addition to managing the company’s agents and leading negotiations with prospective tenants, he seeks out new opportunities to add value to the Downing portfolio.