Wednesday, 13 October 2010

High stakes at Highcross

As reported in today's Leicester Mercury, Mark Murphy (pictured) has resigned as general manager of Highcross Leicester shopping centre less than five months after taking the job.

Deputy general manager Jo Tallack, who has taken temporary charge, becomes the fifth person to run the centre in the past five years.

This high frequency of managerial comings and goings almost puts the centre on a par with Leicester City.

So why the high turnover of people running the city's premier shopping venue? The reason is probably not too dissimilar to what lies behind the constant chopping and changing at Walkers Stadium - pressure for results.

Like a football club owner, when a major retailer centre developer such as Hammerson pumps many millions of pounds into a venture they are going to demand results.

Retail, like football, is very much a people business. It's about charisma, good relationships and having the confidence of others - staff, customers (supporters) and owners.

Add to this the pressure to be constantly improving, attracting bigger and better tenants (players) and dealing with the demands of current tenants, managing a major shopping centre is hugely demanding.

It seems Mr Murphy felt his talents would be better used elsewhere. It is not known whether he has another job lined up.

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