Unite Group has announced a series of organisational changes to its executive committee.
Paul Watson has been appointed managing director, operations; Will Atkinson has been appointed group property director; and Moray Notman has been appointed group commercial and higher education director.
Karan Khanna, chief operating officer, and Rebecca Vicary, group director of communications and corporate affairs, will leave the group over the next few months after supporting the transition to the new executive committee.
Unite said the organisational changes, together with the £241m of disposals completed year-to-date, will align the group’s structure and cost base with its strategic priorities. Changes across the group’s support functions and senior leadership responsibilities are expected to deliver annual cost savings from 2027 onwards.
Joe Lister, chief executive officer of Unite Group, said: “Our priority is to position Unite for future growth by aligning more closely with the UK’s strongest universities and focusing on delivering operational excellence. Delivering this strategy means changing how we are organised. A smaller, more focused business will better align with our strategic priorities, deliver savings and allow us to keep investing where it matters most.
“I am excited by our new executive team and look forward to working more closely with Paul, Will and Moray. I would personally like to thank Karan and Rebecca for their significant contributions to Unite and their support through the transition.”
