UK: Godwin Developments has appointed Lesley Roberts as director of BTR operations.
With a career spanning more than 20 years, Roberts has extensive high-level experience in both the BTR and PRS sectors, and for the last four years has been president of The UK Apartment Association (UKAA).
Prior to joining Godwin, she served as a partner at Allsop LLP and CEO of Allsop Letting and Management, where she advised developers and institutional investors on the acquisition, design, build and operation of large-scale BTR portfolios.
A member of the British Property Federation’s (BPF) residential board, Roberts also toured the US studying the multifamily model and was instrumental in the concept and development of the UKAA’s BTR Best Practice Guide, launched in 2022. She was previously chair of Soho Housing Association and held roles at Pinnacle Places, Young Group, and City Living London.
As director of BTR operations at Godwin Developments, she will play a pivotal role in advancing the company’s plans to build a £1 billion national portfolio. Her main remit will be the creation of the BTR operational strategy across both the single and multifamily developments for the business.
Matt Chandler, managing director of Godwin Developments, said: “Lesley is one of the most respected industry figures and a pre-eminent advocate of the UK BTR sector, with a superb track record and reputation for strategic and hands-on operational leadership. This is why we are delighted that she is joining us at such a key point in our journey toward the creation of our new BTR proposition. Her appointment is yet another demonstration of our commitment to strengthening the in-house team and delivering our strategic ambitions in the sector. We look forward to working with Lesley, leveraging her skills and expertise in BTR to achieve our business objective.”
Roberts added: “It’s fantastic to have joined Godwin Developments at such a pivotal time for both the BTR industry and the business as its portfolio undergoes a significant period of growth. I am delighted to be able to use my many years of expertise in delivering quality homes, placemaking opportunities, and exceptional resident experiences to bring Godwin’s pipeline to life as well as build on the company’s positive momentum. I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge with the team, working closely with the Board, and engaging with external stakeholders for the benefit of residents, the company, and the wider UK BTR sector.”
