Smither leaves Cheetham & Mortimer after 20 years 

Warwick Smither, long-time partner at the Manchester-based retail consultancy, is joining Genr8 Developments as development director. 

During his 20-year stint at Cheetham & Mortimer, Smither worked on schemes including MediaCityUK, and Capital & Centric and HBD’s Kampus, and provided strategic advice to clients including Tesco, M&S, Morrisons, and Boots. 

Recently, Smither has worked alongside his new employer at Rochdale Riverside, a 200,000 sq ft retail and leisure scheme in the town centre that Genr8 is delivering in joint venture with Japanese investor Kajima. 

“I have worked with the team at Genr8 for a number of years and know how talented they all are. It is fantastic to now be joining them at what is a pivotal time for the business, with projects completing and an exciting pipeline of development on the horizon,” Smither said. 

“I am looking forward to getting started and leading what is a brilliant development team.” 

At Genr8, Smither will be responsible for identifying sites for regeneration across the country. 

His appointment follows the extension of Genr8’s partnership with Kajima that will see the joint venture deliver the next phase of Rochdale Riverside, which includes 240 build-to-rent apartments and a 146-bedroom Hilton hotel, and seek out further town centre regeneration projects.

Mike Smith, partner at Genr8, said: “We have known and worked with Warwick over a number of years, so he is no stranger to our business. He is one of the most respected and talented figures in the regional market and will be a huge asset as we drive the business forward.” 

At Cheetham & Mortimer, Smither was one of a four-person leadership team that also includes Stephen Perret, Andy Guest, and Robert Millington. 

Perrett said: “Having worked with Warwick for more than 20 years, it will be sad to see a good friend and colleague leave the business, but we understand the appeal of joining the Genr8 team and we look forward to continuing to work with them all.”