Collegiate UK appoints new MD

CUBO partner Collegiate UK, a leading provider of Purpose Build Student Accommodation (PBSA), has announced the appointment of Neil Burton as its new Managing Director. Neil 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 Ltd, 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, Neil 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 CEO of Nido. He maintains his deep commitment to enhancing community living, now within the PBSA sector.

George Shweiry, Group CEO of Arlington Advisors; “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.”

Neil Burton, Managing Director of Collegiate UK, 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.”

As an illustration of the continued close working relationship between Collegiate UK and Arlington, Neil will also join Arlington Advisors’ senior executive team as the group looks to attract further funding for its continued strategic growth and expansion.

Collegiate UK is dedicated to redefining student living and offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit varying preferences, needs and budgets. The company prides itself on delivering exceptional student experiences by creating stand-out living environments that reflect ambition, enhance wellbeing, and support studies. With a commitment to quality, security, and value, Collegiate UK ensures not only a remarkable student experience but peace of mind for students and their families.