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Vistry Group has appointed Rob Woodward as its new non-executive chair, with the role set to begin in mid-May. He will replace Greg Fitzgerald, who is expected to step down following the company's annual general meeting. Fitzgerald will continue as CEO until a successor is appointed, as the leadership search remains underway. The appointment comes at a time when the company is navigating a softer housing market and has already indicated pressure on margins for the upcoming financial year. Woodward's experience is expected to support the transition.
Vistry Group has appointed Rob Woodward as its non-executive chair, with the appointment set to take effect in mid-May. The move comes as the company continues its search for a new chief executive, indicating an ongoing leadership transition at the top level.
Woodward will take over from Greg Fitzgerald, who is expected to retire after the company's annual general meeting scheduled in May. Until a new CEO is appointed, Fitzgerald will continue to lead the company in an executive capacity, ensuring continuity in operations during the transition period.
Woodward brings significant leadership experience, having previously served as chief executive of STV Group for about a decade until 2017. Over the years, he has also held senior roles across multiple organisations and governance bodies. His experience includes serving as chair of the UK Met Office Board from 2018 to 2024, reflecting his involvement in both corporate and public sector leadership.
The leadership change comes at a time when Vistry is dealing with a relatively subdued housing market in the UK. The company had, in the past week, indicated expectations of lower margins for the financial year 2026, highlighting pressure on profitability amid current market conditions. Like several developers in the region, Vistry has been facing challenges such as slower demand, higher borrowing costs, and cautious buyer sentiment.
Vistry has been actively evolving its business model in recent years, with a stronger focus on partnerships housing and affordable segments, which has helped it maintain volumes despite broader market softness. However, margin pressures remain a concern across the sector. The appointment of an experienced chair is seen as a step to strengthen governance as the company navigates both leadership change and market headwinds.
Source Reuters
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