Developer and manager of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) – Watkin Jones – has appointed Alex Pease as CEO with immediate effect. Joining the company in 2010, Alex took the role of Group Investment Director in 2013. In 2021, Alex was appointed as Chief Investment Officer, and he joined the Watkin Jones Board in 2022.
Alex has been the Interim CEO since 19 July 2023. He has led the company through a critical period during which the markets in which the Group operates have faced significant challenges.
“The Board is delighted to announce Alex’s appointment as our new CEO. Over the last four months, as Interim CEO, Alex has shown his ability both to lead Watkin Jones and think strategically about the future direction of the business.
“While the Board ran a full search process, which included a number of strong external candidates, it was clear that Alex was the outstanding candidate for the role. I and the Board very much look forward to working with Alex and the rest of the executive team to deliver on the full potential of Watkin Jones.”
Alan Giddins, Chair, Watkin Jones
During Alex’s leadership as Interim CEO, the Group successfully completed the sale of three non-core Private Rented Sector assets, acted to better align its cost base, and made progress against a number of important operational initiatives.
“I am delighted and honoured to be given the opportunity to lead Watkin Jones as CEO. Watkin Jones is a fantastic business, with talented and dedicated employees. The PBSA and Build to Rent sectors are amongst the most attractive asset classes in real estate and whilst we continue to face short term macro-economic headwinds, I have no doubt about our ability to navigate through these successfully and return the Group to profitable growth.”
Alex Pease, CEO, Watkin Jones
Watkin Jones has strong relationships with institutional investors, and a reputation for successful, on-time-delivery of high-quality developments. A key player in the PBSA sector, the company has currently delivered 48,000 student beds across 143 sites.
