Succession with Strategy: Nicolas Beaussillon Strengthens Retail Estates
Brussel, maandag, 30 juni 2025.
Retail Estates announces a crucial management transition with the appointment of Nicolas Beaussillon as co-CEO alongside founder Jan De Nys. With an impressive background as former CEO of Wereldhave Belgium, Beaussillon brings profound expertise in the retail real estate sector. The strategic appointment aims to ensure a smooth transition and continuity, with the goal of safeguarding the company’s further growth. Beaussillon will work closely with De Nys until 1 January 2026 to thoroughly understand the company culture and customer relationships, guaranteeing a controlled and well-considered management change for this leading Benelux retail real estate investor.
Strategic Succession at Retail Estates
Retail Estates has appointed Nicolas Beaussillon as co-CEO alongside current founder Jan De Nys, a crucial step in the company’s management continuity [1][2]. Beaussillon possesses extensive experience in the retail real estate sector, particularly as the former CEO of Wereldhave Belgium [2].
Profile of Nicolas Beaussillon
The new co-CEO began his career in 2005 at Cushman & Wakefield Belux, where he progressed from account manager to co-head of retail leasing [2]. In 2016, he moved to Wereldhave Belgium, where he became commercial director and subsequently CEO [2]. Currently, he is CEO of Tans Urban Landmarks, a Belgian family real estate investor [2].
Transition Plan
By 1 January 2026 at the latest, Beaussillon will thoroughly learn the customers and company culture by working closely with Jan De Nys [1][2]. The board of directors is thereby preparing a smooth transition when De Nys will leave the company [2]. Beaussillon currently has a clear vision: he is convinced that the business model, based on local expertise and operational excellence, will continue to create value for all stakeholders [2].
Company Background
Retail Estates is currently the largest retail real estate investor in the Benelux, with a market capitalisation of €900 million and a property portfolio of over €2 billion in Belgium and the Netherlands [3]. The portfolio comprises more than 1,000 retail properties with a total area of 1,231,205 m² and an occupancy rate of 97.26% [5].