Westwood Financial, one of the largest privately held retail real estate investment firms in the nation, announced today the appointment of KC Bills as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer. The appointment comes as the firm celebrates its 55th anniversary of owning and operating best-in-class retail centers across the country.

Based in Los Angeles and founded in 1970, Westwood Financial's portfolio includes more than 125 top-performing grocery-anchored and service-oriented shopping centers, with a large concentration in high-growth Sunbelt markets. Effective July 28^th, Bills will lead the firm’s national team of professionals to drive overall Shareholder value.

“I am honored to lead Westwood Financial into the future and thankful for the confidence of Steve and Howard, and the Board of Directors, whose vision and leadership have built an extraordinary platform,” said Bills. “I look forward to working with the exceptional Westwood team to elevate the company even further. The opportunities ahead are tremendous; I am confident in our ability to grow and create lasting value for our investors, partners, and communities.”

Prior to joining Westwood Financial, Bills served as Senior Vice President and President of the West Portfolio at Philips Edison & Company, Inc. (PECO), a leading owner and operator of grocery-anchored center retail. While at PECO, he was instrumental in enhancing the performance of a national portfolio through streamlined management processes, operational improvements, and strategic planning. His leadership supported the long-term value creation and positioned the company for sustained growth.

“We are excited to have KC lead our firm with his in-depth knowledge and experience in the daily needs shopping center asset class,” states Howard Banchik, Founder & Co-Chairman.

“I am excited that a new generation is taking control of this new chapter in Westwood’s evolution,” states Steve Fogel, Founder & Co-Chairman.

Westwood Financial’s strategic adaptability and deep understanding of market dynamics have enabled it to withstand decades of change in the retail industry. It applies its operational expertise to each of its properties, enhancing asset value and investing in capital improvements that strengthen tenant retention and increase rents. In 2024, the firm increased its same-store NOI by 5.6%.

“KC’s arrival marks an exciting new phase for Westwood,” said Chief Operating Officer Lauren Ball and Chief Financial Officer Juyuan Wei. “We’re proud of the foundation that’s been built and are looking forward to collaborating alongside him as we continue supporting the team and growing the business.”

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About Westwood Financial

Westwood Financial owns, manages, and operates over 125 high-quality shopping centers in top U.S. metropolitan markets, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Orlando, Phoenix, and Raleigh. Top-tier grocers and leading service and experiential-based operators primarily anchor the centers. Established in 1970 by Howard Banchik and Steven Fogel, Westwood Financial is headquartered in Los Angeles, with regional offices in Atlanta, Dallas, and Phoenix.

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