PlaceFirst names new FD

PlaceFirst, the Manchester-based build-to-rent developer, has appointed Nichola Halverson as finance director. She joins from M Capital Investment Partners LLP where she managed investments in student accommodation and residential development.

Prior to working as a partner at M Capital Halverson was group finance director of AIM-listed company Netplay TV.

At M Capital, Halverson managed deals at Elms Hall, a £10m development of luxury apartments in Morecambe, and Damside, 79 luxury student apartments in Lancaster.

PlaceFirst designs, builds and operates private rental homes and aims to deliver 1,000 units across the North of England in the next two years.

Halverson, who is taking up a newly created role at PlaceFirst, will be responsible for managing all aspects of PlaceFirst's development funding including the £15m regeneration of Woodnook, Accrington, and the £5.5m conversion of former guest houses in the West End of Morecambe.

She said: "I was attracted to PlaceFirst as an exciting commercial business that genuinely puts ethics and social responsibility at the forefront of their offering. I'm looking forward to being part of an experienced and energetic team that is delivering high quality housing for low-income working families and helping to regenerate local communities."

David Smith-Milne, managing director of PlaceFirst, added: "Nichola is a valuable addition to the team here at PlaceFirst and will play a key role in the expansion of the company as we seek to secure new development opportunities. She has proven experience in the delivery of high quality residential development and will play a key role in helping to establish PlaceFirst as a leading provider of high quality private rental homes."

PlaceFirst now employs 15 staff at its office in Castlefield.