The Crown Estate has appointed Ric Lewis as the next chair of its board, with effect from 9 July 2025.
Lewis will succeed Sir Robin Budenberg CBE, who has been chair of The Crown Estate since August 2016.
The announcement follows Lewis’s confirmation as the preferred candidate in December 2024, and the subsequent period of pre-appointment scrutiny by the Treasury Select Committee.
Lewis has more than 35 years of experience in the real estate investment sector and is currently the executive chair and co-chief investment officer of Tristan Capital Partners, which he founded in 2009.
Budenberg said: “Ric is an outstanding leader whose experience and values align strongly with The Crown Estate. Under Ric’s leadership, I am confident the board will continue to ensure The Crown Estate delivers the best outcomes for the nation.”
Lewis added: “It is an honour to take on the role of chair for an organisation that is both growing its impact for the UK today and striving to make a difference for future generations. I am excited by the opportunities ahead and look forward to working closely with my fellow board members and the leadership team to build on what has already been achieved and to further realise the potential of this special organisation.”
Dan Labbad, chief executive of The Crown Estate, said: “Ric brings with him a wealth of experience, tenacity and strategic thinking. This will be critical as we continue to step up our ambition, ensuring every part of the business is realising its potential for benefit of the country’s finances and its future. I want to express my deepest gratitude to Robin who has been integral to our transformation to date, and I look forward to working with Ric as we welcome him to The Crown Estate.”
