Steven Connolly takes over as estates director of Liverpool One, which is operated by Grosvenor Europe, following the departure of long-time boss, Chris Bliss. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool One’s has unveiled its new boss Steven Connolly as the £1bn retail and leisure development reports 2017 above the national high street average.

Mr Connolly takes over as estates director of Liverpool One, which is operated by Grosvenor Europe, following the departure of long-time boss, Chris Bliss.

He brings more than 20 years’ experience in leading retail and leisure destinations, joining from Festival Place in Basingstoke, where he has been centre director for the past 12 years.

In addition to Festival Place, which was previously owned by Grosvenor, Mr Connolly has held a number of senior positions in key centres around the UK. 

The announcement comes as Liverpool One reveals sales grew by 3.5% in 2017, 2% ahead of the UK average. In addition, more than 20 brands opened in Liverpool One last 12 months, including the largest JD Sports in the UK outside London. 

Mr Connolly said: “Liverpool One is one of the most exciting and relevant retail and leisure destinations in the UK.  The varied nature of its offer, its integration in the city centre, and the role it continues to play in making Liverpool one of the greatest cities in Europe, make this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“I join a very strong, committed team of ambassadors for the Liverpool One brand and am looking forward to working with them and other stakeholders on the next stage of Liverpool One’s success.”

Steven, Miles Dunnett from Grosvenor Europe, added: “Throughout the selection process, Steven’s understanding of Liverpool One’s complexity and the role it plays in the city stood out.

“He has a great track record in not only delivering exceptional commercial results, but of building high performing, multi-disciplinary teams.”