Vita Group has today announced it has appointed Sir Howard Bernstein as non-executive Chairman.
Sir Howard joins as the group scales across the UK and internationally. He will work with the Vita Group board on the strategic direction of its customer-focused brands – Vita Student, CitySuites, and the forthcoming live/work offer.
Vita Group, who recently announced a £600m investment deal with DWS, has over 5760 beds already operational across 12 cities in the UK with over 1000 units in development and more schemes planned over the next three years, including its first international scheme.
Formerly Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, Sir Howard was one of the architects of Manchester’s urban, social and economic resurgence over the last four decades.
His experience of urban regeneration and creating communities that work for all, will help guide the Vita Group’s next phase of growth.
Speaking about the role, Sir Howard said:
“I’m delighted to join the Vita Group Board at such a pivotal stage of growth.
“Creating forward-thinking housing and spaces around the needs of cities is a critical enabler for economies to thrive, and it ensures a resilient business model as the needs of the urban environment continually evolve.
“I have been consistently impressed with the living experiences created by Vita Group, along with their pace of growth and commitment to placemaking.”
Speaking about the appointment, Vita Group CEO, Mark Stott, said:
“Sir Howard’s vision has transformed Manchester in recent decades. We are privileged to have his unrivalled experience as we pursue ambitious projects across the UK and overseas.”
“Sir Howard’s guidance on our international growth strategy is an immediate priority for the group.”
