Round Hill Capital also stated that it had $1.2 bn (€1 bn) of capital to deploy in the republic.
In its statement Wednesday, The company said that it had been evaluation the Irish property market for several years and is dedicated to deploying its capital into the local build-to-rent and purpose-built student accommodation sectors.
Round Hill has a successful track record of investing in, and operating residential and student accommodation assets across Europe. It has acquired, built and managed more than 110,000 residential and student housing beds in recent years. Overall, the company operates about 65,000 accommodation beds in eight European states. Its approach incorporates multiple strategies like acquiring assets, developing new purpose-built, forward-purchasing and repositioning assets.
It’s currently funding a pipeline of more than 7,000 student accommodation beds across UK, Ireland and continental Europe. The company has stated that it is targeting 20,000 student beds in these markets by 2010. Currently, it has 333, 875 sq m of residential and commercial projects under constructions across Europe.
John Vaudin has been appointed as the managing director of its Irish operation, which will be based at 12 Merrion Square in Dublin. He will oversee the group’s investment, development and operational strategy.
“I’m excited about joining the Round Hill Capital team and helping to bring their extensive international experience to bear in the Irish student accommodation and residential sectors,” said Vaudin.
“We have ambitious plans and over €1 billion of capital to deploy in Ireland and setting up a locally staffed office is a sign of our intention to invest for the long term.” He added.
Round Hill founder and chief executive Michael Bickford stated that the Irish market was struggling with supply and demand issues.
“Consistent with many European countries, the Irish student and residential housing markets suffer from structural supply/demand imbalances,” he said.
“Round Hill has a proven 15-year track record of investing into such markets, where we identify opportunities that will deliver sustainable housing, whilst creating long-term jobs. We look forward to building a substantial student and residential platform in Ireland in a responsible manner.” He added.
“I am delighted to welcome John to the Round Hill team. I am confident that his deep industry knowledge, expertise, networks and ability to deliver will prove invaluable as we continue to grow Round Hill’s business in Ireland and wider Europe.” He concluded.