Robert E. Fenza is retiring as chief operating officer of Liberty Property Trust in Malvern.
“For thirty years, Rob has been uniquely dedicated to making Liberty a better developer, a better operator, a better corporate citizen, a better company,” said Bill Hankowsky, chairman and chief executive officer.
“He has instilled in the organization a unique sense of enthusiasm for the real estate business and has groomed the next generation of developers, managers and leasing professionals to drive the company’s future success. Rob will be missed, but his influence will remain through those who will be picking up his reins.”
Fenza joined Liberty’s predecessor company, Rouse & Associates, in 1984. He was responsible for establishing Liberty’s position as the leading industrial developer in the Lehigh Valley. Fenza was promoted to executive vice president for operations, and in 2000 he was named chief operating officer.
Liberty said Fenza is active in numerous charitable, educational and community development efforts, and is retiring to devote more time to public service.
Fenza will step down from his COO role on Dec. 31. He will continue in a transitional advisory capacity until March 31, 2015.
The five department and regional managers that have reported to Fenza, along with Mike Hagan, chief investment officer, have formed a new company oversight committee known as the Real Estate Operating Committee. Committee members will report directly to Hankowsky, but will have significant decision-making authority and will participate in the investment process.
Liberty Property Trust is a leader in commercial real estate with customers in the U.S. and U.K. The company’s portfolio includes more than 750 properties which provide office, distribution and light manufacturing facilities to 1,800 tenants.
