Countrywide's finance chief to step down

The UK's largest estate agency has announced that its finance chief will step down from its board next month and retire at the end of the year.

Jim Clarke, group chief financial officer at Countrywide, is stepping down from the firm's board on July 31, before retiring later this year on December 31.

Clarke, who has been with Countrywide for over a decade, will be replaced by Himanshu Raja.

Raja is joining the Countrywide board next week on June 12 and will take up the role as group chief financial officer on August 1, following the publishing of the agency's half-year results.

Countrywide says that Clarke's replacement has 'wide experience' of being a chief financial officer, most recently undertaking the role for security firm G4S.

"Jim has been a stalwart in the Countrywide group for over 10 years and leaves the business in a strong position to build for its future in the coming years," said Alison Platt, Countrywide chief executive, in a statement released yesterday. 

"I have really enjoyed working closely with Jim, and will continue to do so as he hands over to his successor."

The group's chairman, Peter Long, added: "On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Jim for his dedication to the Group over many years." 

"His knowledge and experience has served Countrywide very well and we wish him all the best in his retirement."

Commenting on Raja's appointment, Platt said: "I am delighted to welcome Himanshu to Countrywide." 

"His skills, knowledge and experience are a perfect fit for the Group and will be invaluable as we continue to build our future."

Peter Long added: "We are delighted to welcome Himanshu onto the Board of Countrywide and look forward to working closely with him."

Himanshu Raja's appointment is subject to approval by the Financial Conduct Authority.