Federation Centres has appointed Michael O’Brien as chief investment officer, following a recent review of the group’s operating model and business requirements in the area of Investments.

O’Brien will commence with the group on October 12 and will be located in Melbourne.

Previously he has held senior roles at GPT Group including group executive – corporate development, COO and CFO. Prior to this O’Brien was at Lend Lease Corporation where he held a variety of funds management and shopping centre management positions, including CEO of Lend Lease Retail.

Angus McNaughton, Federation Centres’ CEO, said: “After completing an extensive executive search, I am very pleased to be welcoming someone of Michael’s calibre to the team at Federation Centres. Michael’s significant retail property industry and investment experience will further strengthen the Group’s management team.

“I would also like to acknowledge Richard Jamieson for his work across the Investments function in recent months, in particular during our initial integration and in addition to his responsibility as chief financial officer.”

O’Brien will work closely with the CEO on group strategy and will be responsible for investment management, strategic partnerships, investor relations and capital transactions. He will also be a member of the group’s executive committee.