British Land names Joanne McNamara as CEO

June 2 (Reuters) - Real estate group British Land Company on Tuesday announced the appointment of Joanne McNamara as chief executive officer, following former chief Simon Carter's surprise departure in January.

McNamara is currently executive vice president of the European business of real estate investor and developer Oxford Properties. The real estate manager is a joint venture partner with British Land on the Leadenhall Building development in London.

"With her deep expertise of real estate, valuable experience in the world of private capital and a strong reputation for decisive leadership, she is exceptionally well placed to drive the business forward", said Chairman William Rucker.

British Land Company, which leases and manages commercial property, reported annual underlying profit above market view, supported by robust demand for office spaces from AI and technology firms.

(Reporting by Simone Lobo in Bengaluru; Editing by Mrigank Dhaniwala)