Europe: Nido Living has appointed Joanne Pollard as chief operating officer (COO) as part of its ongoing business evolution following its transformation into a vertically integrated platform.
Pollard’s appointment comes after the departure of former COO Darren Gardner and aligns with the company’s preparations for entry into new European markets.
Joanne Pollard brings over 12 years of leadership experience in the purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and Build to Rent (BTR) sectors.
Her most recent role was COO at Empiric Student Property PLC. She has also held senior positions with companies such as Prime Student Living, Campus Living Villages Ltd, The Mansion Group, and Five Nine Living.
Pollard said: “I am beyond excited to be joining Nido Living, a brand that leads with purpose and is recognised for its strong focus on delivering an exemplary student experience, prioritising wellbeing, community, sustainability and design & technology, as well as driving forward core values I share: respect, innovation, excellence and collaboration.
“I look forward to supporting its ambitious expansion across markets as well as supporting the drive for innovation and an exemplary student experience.”
Pollard will oversee operations across Nido Living’s growing European portfolio, including the Group HQ in Amsterdam, the expanding Iberia platform, and upcoming market entries in Italy and Germany.
This strategic leadership hire follows a series of appointments since Nido Living’s acquisition by the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) in Spring 2024, including CEO Carlo Matta, CFO Ryan Lee, and Head of Italy Giuseppe Zafferri.
CEO Carlo Matta said: “We are delighted to welcome Joanne to Nido Living. The COO role is crucial as we scale our integrated platform with a target of delivering and operating 25,000 beds by 2031.
“Joanne’s operational expertise and sector knowledge will be instrumental as we expand further in Iberia and establish ourselves in Germany and Italy – all while staying focused on continuing to deliver exceptional living experiences for our students across Europe.”
Highlights:
• Nido Living has appointed Joanne Pollard as chief operating officer
• Her most recent role was COO at Empiric Student Property PLC
• The hire follows a series of appointments since Nido Living’s acquisition by the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments) in Spring 2024
