Single-family rental developer and operator Placefirst has appointed Anna Hwang to the role of chief investment officer.
Based in its London offices, Hwang's role was created to support Placefirst and its investor, Matter Real Estate, with increasing the residential portfolio size, developing and executing Placefirst’s investment strategy, and overseeing the management of the investment portfolio.
Hwang joined the company from Savills in May 2023, according to her LinkedIn profile, where she was director of operational capital markets. Before becoming CIO at Placefirst, she was director of assets and strategy.
She has more than 20 years' experience in the property sector, with the company adding that she has "played an instrumental role in developing and executing Placefirst’s real estate strategy".
Hwang will also be responsible for managing property transactions, which will help to grow the company’s portfolio.
Her appointment also comes as Placefirst expands into the East Midlands, with an £8 million forward-funded deal for the acquisition of 34 homes in Corby from Midlands-based housing developer Jelson Homes.
David Mawson, CEO at Placefirst, said in a statement: "Anna has been a brilliant addition to the senior leadership team at Placefirst, and we’re looking forward to seeing what she’ll achieve in her new role as CIO.
"As we look to continue implementing our growth strategy, the quality of our asset portfolio will play an increasingly important role. Anna’s expertise and experience in asset management will ensure that Placefirst is best placed for sustainable and long-term growth."
Placefirst’s project pipeline includes the £21 million Bolt Works development in Halifax, which will deliver 122 homes by 2025, and the £35 million Deansgate Garden neighbourhood, which once complete will comprise 167 homes in Bolton.