Global Student Accommodation (GSA) has appointed Simon Bray as global head of finance.
Bray will join GSA’s executive team, further strengthening the company’s leadership and taking an integral role in developing the business and executing its global growth plans.
Bray brings a 30-year track record in the funds management sector. His particular expertise includes strategic planning and execution, operational risk, P&L enhancement, M&A, and operational resilience.
He will have responsibility for the finance, fund control, tax, people & culture, treasury and risk & compliance functions at GSA.
The GSA executive team also includes Ben Harvie (global head of investment management), James Hunt (global head of real estate) and John Jacobs (global head of capital markets).
Before joining the company, Bray most recently spent eight years in senior roles at BNP Paribas in Ireland, including as CEO, fund administration services and chief administration officer, securities services.
Prior to that he served as chief financial officer of both Credit Suisse Prime Fund Services EMEA and Fortis Prime Fund Solutions.
John Jacobs, global head of capital markets at GSA, said: 'Simon is a fantastic addition to GSA and our executive team, and I am delighted to welcome him to the business.
'His impressive track record with leading financial services companies, coupled with the depth and breadth of his leadership and operational expertise, will play an important part in driving growth while embedding strong risk management.
'As a leading executive in the fund administration space, Simon’s appointment reflects the strength of GSA’s offering and its ability to attract market-leading talent. The student housing sector remains incredibly robust, and I look forward to working with him as GSA implements its growth plans.'
Said Bray: 'GSA is the global leader in student housing and it’s an exciting time to join such a dynamic business. Student accommodation remains in high demand, attracting ever-increasing interest and capital.
'GSA’s unique approach as sector specialists provides a compelling opportunity. I look forward to working alongside the executive team and broader Dot Group to unlock further growth and drive performance.'
