Peter Huddle has been named Vicinity Centre’s new acting CEO, bringing forward the former chief’s retirement timeframe.

Earlier this month, Grant Kelley retired as the CEO and MD of Vicinity Centres after five years in the role. A global search for his replacement is currently underway by executive search firm Egon Zehnder.

Huddle joined Vicinity in 2019 and is responsible for the company’s property management, leasing, operations, development, and marketing functions while delivering an integrated and customer-focused team.

Before joining Vicinity, he held several leadership roles under Westfield in Australia, Brazil and the US and is responsible for some of the world’s renowned retail and mixed development projects.

Following the acquisition of Westfield by French commercial real-estate company Unibail Rodamco in 2018, Huddle was appointed COO of the extensive operations and development business in the United States.

Vicinity’s chairman, Trevor Gerber, said the board is confident Huddle will bring value to security holders as he has the industry knowledge, skills and experience required to lead the business.

Kelley had previously indicated a desire to retire prior to June next year.