Global investor L&G has appointed Dan Batterton as head of housing in the UK as it plans to deploy around £500 million into the sector over the next two years.
Batterton is promoted to lead housing investment across L&G’s Asset Management business, which deals with build-to-rent, single family housing, affordable housing operations, purpose-built student accommodation and later living.
He has more than 20 years of experience in the property sector, with his expertise in portfolio strategy helping to shape L&G’s long-term acquisition, development, sustainability, and operational plans for the residential sector.
Batterton has launched several investment strategies during his time at L&G, notably the Build-to-Rent platform in 2016, which has grown to over £4 billion and over 10,000 apartments across the UK.
The global investor also said that he has been instrumental in securing co-investment opportunities from UK and international partners to enhance the UK’s rental supply. His team also shaped the recent purpose-built student accommodation operational strategy.
Michael Barrie, Head of Real Estate, UK & Europe, L&G said in a statement: "Dan has been instrumental in the development of L&G’s housing platform, with a track record of scaling investment strategies in nascent segments of the market.
"The UK faces a severe housing crisis, and we are seeing growing demand from clients seeking exposure to the sector, offering attractive returns alongside positive social impact.
"L&G is committed to expanding our housing footprint to help deliver much needed homes across the country, and I look forward to working with Dan to execute our growth plans and take this vital component of our strategy from strength to strength."