Collegiate UK, a leading provider of Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), has announced the appointment of Neil Burton as its new managing director.

Burton joins the business to help deliver the next phase of growth and to further enhance Collegiate UK’s operating capabilities.

In 2020, Collegiate UK became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arlington Advisors, an investment firm that specialises in the acquisition and management of PBSA in the UK.

Collegiate UK, with the support of Arlington, has subsequently grown dramatically with the onboarding of 29 new sites and over 100 new team members.

The group now has more than 36 student residences and 10,800 beds in 21 cities across the UK.

With an international career spanning nearly three decades of senior leadership roles across several influential and global companies, Burton has helped shape the future of the living sector.

He held the senior positions of managing director of Round Hill Capital; global practice lead for brand and customer experience at Greystar; and chief executive of Nido.

George Shweiry, group chief executive of Arlington Advisors, said: “We’re excited to welcome Neil to the team and for the opportunities ahead as we look to extend our presence and ‘one-stop-shop’ capabilities in the PBSA sector.

“We’re not just aiming for growth, but for a revolution in how we can develop community living and lead the market in offering exceptional experiences for our customers and strategic partners.”

Burton adds: “I’m delighted to join the award-winning team and to be appointed to help deliver this next phase of growth for the business.

“A vibrant community lies at the heart of the best student experiences and I’m excited to bring a global mindset to developing the offer and capabilities needed to deliver our shared vision for the business and student living.”