Global Student Accommodation (GSA) appoints Michael Neeley as Asset Management Director.Michael’s appointment reflects GSA’s growth plans for the US, having expanded to encompass 46 assets across 23 states in under two years.
As Asset Management Director, Michael will be responsible for driving rehabilitation, reconfiguration and redevelopment activity across the US portfolio. He will work closely with colleagues, joint venture partners and with GSA’s global operating partner Yugo, to identify value-add initiatives for pipeline transactions to support underwriting.
“Michael is a fantastic addition to the GSA team with an outstanding track record in student housing asset management. I am confident that he will play a key part in optimising our US portfolio and driving investor returns. His appointment further demonstrates GSA’s ability to attract the very best talent in the industry and I look forward to working alongside Michael as we continue to develop our market-leading position.”
James Hunt, Global Head of Real Estate, Global Student Accommodation
GSA has a multi-million-dollar programmatic US capital investment strategy for 2023, which includes the refurbishment of 2,500 beds, investment in clubhouse and amenity space, and targeted ESG projects to improve the environmental performance of the portfolio, with the aim of enhancing students’ experience and driving asset value.
Michael brings with him over 12 years’ experience in the student housing sector. His expertise covers real estate finance, asset management and operations, and includes debt and institutional equity investment, underwriting, due diligence, market research, capital markets and wider transactional experience.
“I’m delighted to have joined GSA and look forward to contributing to its continued success and growth. GSA has proved itself to a be leader in the student housing sector and it is with great pleasure that I take on this role to add value to our US portfolio and drive further growth opportunities for the company.”
Michael Neely, Asset Management Director, Global Student Accommodation
Michael joins GSA from global real estate development and investment management firm CA Ventures where he was Director of Investments and Asset Management. Prior to that, Michael held various leadership roles with Mapletree Investments, the real estate arm of the Singaporean sovereign wealth fund Temasek, and Cardinal Group Investments. He holds a MSc in Real Estate Finance and Construction Management from the University of Denver, and a BSc in Business Administration and Real Estate Finance from Colorado State University.
