The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced Ric Lewis as
the Government's preferred candidate for the position of Chair of
The Crown Estate.
Mr Lewis is the founding partner of Tristan Capital Partners, a
UK based real estate investment company, as well as founder and
Chair of The Black Heart Foundation. His most recent roles
include non-executive functions at Legal & General, Imperial
College London, The Earthshot Prize, and executive roles at
Tristan Capital Partners.
The Crown Estate, an independent commercial business set up by a
1961 act of parliament to act in the long-term national interest,
manages a diverse £16 billion marine, urban and rural portfolio
across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Its focus is on
supporting the UK's transition to a decarbonised, energy secure
future; enhancing nature recovery; creating inclusive communities
and economic growth; and generating a strong financial return for
the benefit of public spending. This has totalled £4 billion over
the last ten years.
The Chair leads The Crown Estate's board, which is responsible
for ensuring The Crown Estate meets its statutory objectives and
duties, and provides strategic oversight of the business.
Mr Lewis was chosen as the preferred candidate after an open
recruitment competition and assessment process, conducted by a
panel in line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.
Mr Lewis will go on to attend a pre-appointment hearing before
the Treasury Select Committee in the new year. Following Mr
Lewis's pre-appointment hearing, the Treasury Select Committee
will release its recommendations. The Chancellor of the Exchequer
will review these recommendations before making the final
decision. The role of the chair is on a fixed-term with an option
to renew after four years.
