Urban regeneration specialist Wavensmere Homes has recruited Chris West to the newly created role of finance business partner.
West joins the business from the Birmingham office of Avison Young, where he worked as a senior corporate accountant since 2019. Prior to that, he was a finance executive and IT manager for Leaping Man Group.
James Dickens, managing director of Wavensmere Homes, said: “Chris joins us only six months after Anthony Cakebread started as finance director, which reflects the investment we’re making this year to bolster out senior in-house team. There has never been a tougher business climate for SME housebuilders, so this appointment will maintain and enhance our strong appeal with local authorities, landowners, partners and investors.”
Cakebread added: “Chris’s appointment strengthens the financial rigour behind every project we deliver. As our development pipeline continues to scale, having a finance business partner who can provide real‑time insight and strategic challenge is essential to maintaining our momentum and ensuring we continue to deliver high quality regeneration at pace. His experience in property‑focused financial management will enhance our forecasting, sharpen our decision‑making and support the sustainable growth of Wavensmere Homes during a period of significant expansion.”
West said “I am thrilled to join Wavensmere’s in-house finance team and have the opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of one the UK’s most high-profile SME housebuilders. Having been at Avison Young for seven years, I’ve had the privilege to work with a large number of successful property firms. By jumping ship to take up this in-house role, I’ll be able to progress my career, while developing a detailed understanding of Wavensmere’s financial trajectory. I certainly hope to play a part in the ongoing success of this fantastic development firm.”
