Oxfordshire-based Edgars has announced the change as it approaches its 20th anniversary, with Jon Westerman taking over as managing director in a deal that marks a ‘natural next chapter’ for the business.
Mr Westerman succeeds joint founder Jayne Norris, who established the planning consultancy arm of Edgars in 2007 with a vision to deliver a client-focused, sustainable approach to development.
Ms Norris said: “I am incredibly proud of what we have built at Edgars and, in particular, the team and client relationships that sit at the heart of the business.
“Finding the right way to take forward Edgars was hugely important to me.
“Jon has been part of Edgars for ten years; he understands our people, clients and culture and has played an important role in the business we have become.
“This feels like a very natural next chapter and I am enormously excited to see where Jon and the team take Edgars from here.”
Mr Westerman joined Edgars as a director in 2016, having previously worked for Carter Jonas and at Cherwell and West Oxfordshire district councils.
He has played a central role in the company’s growth, leading major planning projects and helping to expand its client base across the region.
Mr Westerman said: “It is a huge privilege to be taking Edgars forward.
“The strength of this business is our people, our expertise and the relationships we have built with clients over many years and living by our values of collaboration, communication and commitment to excellence.
“Those foundations don’t change. What we do have is renewed ambition for the future.
“We want to strengthen our position in planning and heritage, build on our Oxfordshire roots and expertise, deepen our existing client relationships and work with more of the ambitious projects and organisations we know Edgars can add real value to.
“As we approach our 20th anniversary, it feels like a particularly exciting moment to look at everything Edgars has achieved – and what we can achieve together next.”
The management buyout will not affect the company’s existing team, client relationships, or project portfolio.
Edgars has developed a strong reputation advising landowners, developers, and architects on planning policy, heritage matters, and development strategy.
The consultancy has worked on high-profile projects including Radley College, Bloxham School, Bicester Motion, Daylesford, Enstone Business Park, and several Oxford colleges.
It has also supported clients such as the University of Oxford, Great Tew Estate, and Madresfield Estate.
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