Cushman & Wakefield Announces Leadership Changes: Brett White Retires, Steve Plavin Takes Over as Chairman and Independent Director

Strategic Insights -

Michelle MacKay, Chief Executive Officer, acknowledged Brett White's instrumental role in shaping the company's current state, citing his decade-long service and significant contributions, such as navigating the company through its initial public offering and spearheading strategic investments during the COVID pandemic. White will continue to serve as a strategic consultant until February 28, 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • Brett White, former Executive Chairman, Non-Executive Chairman, and CEO, will retire from the Board of Directors after over a decade of service.
  • Steve Plavin, retiring Head of Europe for Blackstone Real Estate Debt Strategies, will become the Non-Executive Chairman, effective October 1, 2025.
  • Susan Daimler, former President of Zillow, will join as an Independent Director, bringing over 20 years of digital and real estate expertise, effective August 1, 2025.
  • Timothy Wennes, former CEO and Country Head of Santander US, will also join as an Independent Director, bringing 35 years of banking expertise, effective August 1, 2025.
  • The Board will be fully independent, except for MacKay herself.
  • The appointments reflect the company's strategic pivot towards growth and innovation.

Statistics:

  • Cushman & Wakefield reported revenue of $9.4 billion in 2024 across its core service lines of Services, Leasing, Capital markets, and Valuation and other.
  • The company has approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries.
  • Brett White will continue to serve as a strategic consultant until February 28, 2026.
  • Steve Plavin has a 40-year career in commercial real estate, with roles at Blackstone, Chase Bank, and Capital Trust.

Sources:

  • Businesswired.com
  • https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250622386220/en/
  • Cushman & Wakefield official press release