Simon Property Group names new GM at Battlefield Mall

Simon Property Group announced last week the appointment of Michael Martin as the new general manager of Battlefield Mall.

Martin, who officially started July 9, said former General Manager Charles Tarkington was promoted to the position of general manager at another Simon property, Wolfchase Galleria in Memphis, Tenn. Tarkington was appointed to the Springfield post May 4, 2013, according to Springfield Business Journal archives.

Martin comes to Springfield from the Austin, Texas, area where he managed four of Simon’s outdoor retail properties, including The Arboretum, Gateway Shopping Centers, The Shops at Arbor Walk and Wolf Ranch Town Center. Prior to joining Simon in 2013, Martin worked for in Chattanooga, Tenn.-based property management companies CBL & Associates Properties Inc. and Wolford Development Inc.

“Springfield looks and feels like where I’m from,” Martin said. “This is a very good property with a very good staff, and (an) opportunity to move up – this level up from what I was doing.”

Martin’s day-to-day responsibilities at Battlefield Mall include mall operations, tenant relations, leasing, business development, security and customer service, according to a news release.

“We’re excited to welcome Martin as an integral member of our dynamic team,” said David Johnson, Simon central region vice president, in the release. “His wealth of experience in management, business development, retail and marketing will be an asset to Battlefield Mall as the property continues to develop on its reputation as one of the leading shopping destinations in the region.”