Wates appoints managing director for London

Wates Residential has appointed Paul Nicholls as its regional managing director for London. Nicholls will join the company in February 2025, replacing Nick Williams, who is retiring after a 40-year career in the industry, including three years with Wates. This appointment marks Nicholls’ return to Wates after four years spent focusing on his own projects within the industry. Nicholls brings more than 30 years’ experience in the sector and will report to Phillippa Prongué, who assumes the role of executive managing director in January, replacing Helen Bunch, who is also retiring.   Bunch said: “The housing crisis is one of the biggest challenges facing our capital. Paul’s expertise will help us accelerate the deployment of private investment to support the delivery of both the GLA and government’s ambitious housing targets.  “He rejoins a team that is much more regionalised than it was previously, a decision we made to get closer to our customers and projects. He will bring renewed drive to an already-strong board and team within the London region.” Nicholls said: “It is a joy to be returning to the business that I feel is a cultural home for me, driven by its purpose to reimagine places for people to thrive. “The time I’ve had setting up my own business and advising other large-scale businesses has proven invaluable where I learnt more about myself and the inherent risks within the sector.” Image from Wates