Leading build-to-rent developer Placefirst has appointed Darran Lawless as property development director to drive UK growth.
The Northern-based developer specialises in transformational built-to-rent schemes with a focus on placemaking, that provide residents a real alternative to home ownership. Darran will be guiding new opportunities for this, leading the acquisition, development, planning and design teams, following through to the onsite project commencement.
Darran has over 30 years’ experience in the property sector, having joined from Peel L&P as its development director responsible for Liverpool Waters for the last three years. Prior to this, he held director roles within Cheshire East Council and Muse Developments for 17 years.
In addition to overseeing new developments, Darran will be responsible for continuing, and building upon strategic relationships, working with internal teams as well as external providers and partnerships. He will lead the company’s geographical growth across the UK with ambitious plans to expand its portfolio.
Commenting on his appointment, Darran said:
“I am genuinely excited about joining Placefirst to significantly expand and grow the business which is recognised as a leader and award winner of build-to-rent communities. As the need for affordable family rental housing is greater than ever, I look forward to working closely with local authorities, landowners and other housebuilders to accelerate construction and delivery, by offering an alternative to home ownership and sharing development risk, and acquiring existing investments and estates.”
David Mawson, chief executive at Placefirst, added:
“We are delighted to be welcoming Darran to Placefirst, bringing with him decades of experience in the sector, working on some major, high profile projects. He has fantastic attention to detail and a drive to follow projects through which will be vital for taking our developments from concept to completion.
“We are dedicated to continually improving our services with ambitious growth plans to considerably expand our portfolio - we have no doubt that Darran’s focused approach will propel the business’ next steps and we look forward to having him on board.”
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