The Board of directors of Countrywide plc announced that Alison Platt has resigned as Chief Executive Officer of the Group and will stand down from the Board. The Board has asked Peter Long to become Executive Chairman to which he has agreed until such time as a successor is appointed. Paul Creffield, previously Managing Director, Commercial Development has been appointed Group Operations Director with immediate effect.

Respected in the industry with extensive experience in both Countrywide and the estate agency market he will work closely with Peter. Paul's remit will now also include responsibility for the Sales and Lettings Division.