UK Apartment Association (UKAA), the trade organisation for the Build to Rent sector in the United Kingdom, has appointed Brendan Geraghty as Chief Executive Officer.
Architect, design and development strategist Geraghty comes to the role with a deep understanding of the Build to Rent sector, having held roles with Centred Architecture, Optim and Geraghty Taylor Architects. Active in the sector since 2011 and a recognised BTR thought leader, he has actively championed the integration of consumer culture in BTR with a ‘brand before building’ approach.
Combining strong conceptual and creative intelligence with a solid practical bias, Geraghty’s strategic, analytical approach allows ‘big picture’ thinking to be supported by appropriate levels of granular detail to create inspiring and deliverable solutions. Along with his cross-sector experience and 16 years in senior project and business roles, this positions him perfectly for taking the UKAA forward.
He has already been associated with the UKAA for some time, having managed the content for the recently launched Best Practice Guide. Now, he will lead the organisation as it moves to shape the future of Build to Rent in the UK.
With over 300 members from across the sector and growing at a rate of more than 100 members per year, the UKAA serves as a single unifying and authoritative body for the urban and suburban Build to Rent sector, working with government, investors, lenders, operators, suppliers and customers to support knowledge exchange, expansion and best practice at every level.
Geraghty will lead the orgaisation’s research activities, raising its profile, and explore new relationships with other organisations operating in the residential sector with an interest in Build to Rent including housing associations, co-living investors and operators, contractors and house builders – whilst addressing pressing ESG issues including Net Zero Carbon.
He says: “I am delighted and honoured to lead the UKAA into this new chapter, working to ensure the UK and our members are at the forefront of best practice in the Build to Rent sector. The potential of Build to Rent is still far from fulfilled – there is appetite for exceptional growth in the UK, particularly at a regional level. UKAA will be at the heart of that growth.”
Lesley Roberts, President, UKAA, adds: “We are thrilled that Brendan has taken up the leadership of UKAA at this exciting time in the organisation’s development. We look forward to the organisation’s continued growth with Brendan at the helm at this pivotal time for Build to Rent in the UK.”
