NEPI Rockcastle has appointed its current Chief Operating Officer, Marek Noetzel, as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 April 2026. He will succeed Rüdiger Dany, who has led the Group since 2021.
Mr. Noetzel, who became COO in 2022, oversees operations across 60 shopping centres in eight Central and Eastern European countries. NEPI Rockcastle, with a portfolio exceeding €8 billion, is the region’s largest retail property owner, operator and developer.
During Mr. Dany’s four-year tenure, the company expanded through major acquisitions, strengthened its financial position, and achieved steady earnings growth. Distributable earnings per share rose from 34.42 euro cents in 2021 to 60.17 euro cents in 2024, marking a 75% increase.
Mr. Noetzel joined Rockcastle Global Real Estate in 2016, where he helped establish its Polish operations and expand into new markets. Following the 2017 merger of Rockcastle’s Central European assets with NEPI, he became Director of Retail in Poland and later served as a Board Member before being appointed COO. Earlier in his career, he led the Polish retail team at Cushman & Wakefield.
As COO, he has been responsible for the company’s leasing strategy, occupancy management, and tenant relations, as well as contributing to acquisitions and portfolio optimisation. Under his leadership, NEPI Rockcastle has executed over €1 billion in acquisitions, developments, and asset management projects, supporting sustained income growth and record 2024 financial results.
George Aase, Chairman of NEPI Rockcastle, said:
“After a rigorous international search and assessment process, the Board concluded that Marek is the best candidate to lead the company into its next phase. He brings extensive operational knowledge and has been instrumental in the Group’s success through portfolio optimisation and development. The Board also thanks Rüdiger for his leadership, which has strengthened the company’s position and delivered consistent results.”
Rüdiger Dany, current CEO, commented:
“I’m proud that the Board has chosen an internal candidate. Marek has played a key role in the management team that delivered NEPI Rockcastle’s strong performance in recent years. His appointment reflects the company’s commitment to developing its own talent and recognising innovation and leadership.”
Mr. Noetzel’s promotion marks a continuation of NEPI Rockcastle’s strategy of operational stability and steady growth across its Central and Eastern European markets.