Hickman Shearer Announces Leadership Transition

21st May 2025
Reading, UK

Hickman Shearer Enters a New Chapter of Leadership and Growth

Here at Hickman Shearer we are pleased to announce a significant leadership transition following the retirement of Tim Chapman from his role as joint Managing Director.

While stepping back from day-to-day operations, Tim Chapman will continue to work with the Hickman Shearer team in a consultancy capacity.

Tim Howard Continues at the Helm

Tim Howard will continue to lead the business as Managing Director. Tim has been instrumental in driving the business’s transformation and over the last eight years, his leadership has seen accelerated growth, establishing Hickman Shearer as the authority in capital asset advisory.

Today, Hickman Shearer is not only a trusted partner for clients across asset-intensive sectors but also a recognised specialist supporting other professional advisors.

As part of this expansion, the Hickman Shearer team has led the development and successful launch of ValoxPro, the capital asset valuation SaaS, and LAMA, the UK’s first specialist event series for professionals in the asset valuation space, both of which reflect the company’s vision for innovation, knowledge-sharing, and client empowerment.

To support this next phase, the company is proud to announce the following senior promotions:

• James Fox has been promoted to Senior Director. With strong technical expertise, particularly in transport and machinery asset valuations, James plays a central role in delivering complex, tailored solutions for clients.
• Françoise Rodrigues has been appointed Director, bringing a rigorous, financial and analytical approach to capital asset advisory and portfolio insight.
• Luke Umansky has been promoted to Senior Manager, recognising his consistent performance, technical capability, and commitment to project delivery across multiple sectors.

Tim Howard, Managing Director, commented:

“We are incredibly grateful to Tim Chapman for his years of commitment and leadership, and we’re pleased he will continue to work with us on a consultancy basis. I’m also proud to recognise James, Françoise, and Luke in their well-earned promotions. They each bring unique strengths to the business and will play a key role in supporting our continued momentum. As we evolve, our focus remains on delivering strategic value, building trusted partnerships, and setting the benchmark for excellence in capital asset advisory.”

James Fox, Senior Director added:

“It has been absolutely incredible to watch how much the business has grown and changed since I joined four years ago. As a team, we’re genuinely excited to see where this next chapter takes us. At Hickman Shearer, we believe we’re more than a traditional valuation company; we’re a trusted business partner to our clients. We’re excited to continue helping them unlock their full potential in the future.”

Brand Refresh: Unlocking Potential

Aligned with this new chapter, Hickman Shearer is also undertaking a brand refresh, rolling out in the next few months ahead. Under the banner of “Unlocking Potential,” the refreshed brand captures the company’s core mission, helping clients realise the full value of their assets through insight, clarity, and experience. The update includes a refined visual identity, enhanced messaging, and a more dynamic, client-focused digital experience, all reflecting Hickman Shearer’s blend of technical excellence and strategic foresight.

This leadership transition and brand evolution reflect Hickman Shearer’s ongoing commitment to continuity, innovation, and trusted advisory across the asset valuation landscape.

About Hickman Shearer

At Hickman Shearer, we specialise in delivering exceptional RICS and ASA certified capital asset valuation, management, and sales services. Our expertise span a wide range of global industries, ensuring that we provide tailored and insightful commercial valuations and equipment valuation services to meet your unique needs. With a strong track record of delivering robust and independent advice, Hickman Shearer is committed to supporting businesses in achieving their strategic objectives. Find out more here >> About Us

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