Martin’s Properties has promoted Polly Troughton to the role of chief executive following Richard Bourne’s decision to step down from the role after nearly a decade with the business.
Troughton joined Martin’s Properties in January 2025 as main board director and CEO of Obsidian Strategic, the company’s strategic land business. Prior to this, she was managing director of housing and commercial strategic land, developer and regeneration business St Modwen Properties.
Troughton said: “I am looking forward to this expanded role, working with the incredible team here comprising talented senior experts across investment, asset management, development, operations and finance building on what we have today as we look towards the future.”
Tom Martin, chairman of Martin’s Properties, added: “The board, shareholders and I would like to sincerely thank Richard for his leadership and contribution over nearly a decade. He leaves the business in a materially stronger position with a robust platform for its next phase of growth. We wish Richard every success in the next chapter of his career.
“In terms of the future, we are very pleased to welcome Polly into the CEO position, having spent the last 18 months+ successfully leading our strategic land business. With her 20 years’ investment and development experience across all real estate sectors, she is ideally placed to see us through this next phase of growth and further diversification.”
Bourne said “I’m proud of what the business and team have achieved over the last decade and I’m leaving behind a strong platform and clear mandate for further growth. After 10 years and a record performance last year, I feel now is the right time to hand over the reins and explore new opportunities. I wish the team every continued success and look forward to watching it continue to flourish under new leadership.”
