Wykeland appoints finance director
Chris Crookham will succeed Ian Franks at the Yorkshire-based development group, following his retirement after 18 years at the company.
Crookham joins the company from F&B manufacturer Sofina Foods, where he spent four years, progressing to finance director, UK added value with responsibility for the processing facilities across the country.
He has also worked at UK safety industry leader Arco, rising to group financial controller.
Prior to that, he held positions at PwC and global hygiene business Reckitt.
Crookham is a Leeds University graduate and is now based in Hull.
Franks, meanwhile, has spent 18 years as Wykeland’s finance director, during which time the company has grown to become a leading commercial developer in the region.
He said: “A big part of the appeal of this role is joining a business with such a strong vision and social conscience, which aligns with my own values.
“Having grown up in East Yorkshire and living in the area, I’ve seen the really positive impact Wykeland has had, through developments like the Flemingate centre in Beverley and the Fruit Market regeneration in Hull.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to be part of a business very much embedded in the local community and to play my part in continuing Wykeland’s great work at the forefront of investment and regeneration across the region.”
Franks said: “Wykeland has been a very big part of my life and I’m very proud of the many projects we have delivered that have been commercially successful, while also bringing together physical, social and cultural regeneration.
“It’s now time for me to step back and for an injection of fresh ideas and energy. I wish Chris every success in his new role and know Wykeland will continue to go from strength to strength.”
Wykeland Managing Director Dominic Gibbons said: “We’re delighted to have appointed Chris to succeed Ian and build on his achievements.
“Chris brings to Wykeland a great deal of relevant, high-level experience with industry-leading organisations and has a very broad skillset.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks, and that of our Board and entire team, to Ian for his tremendous contribution.
“Ian has played a very significant part in the development of the business over almost two decades. His financial expertise and sound judgement have been invaluable in the successful delivery of many of our most significant developments.”
