Nido hires Carlo Matta as new CEO

Europe, 14 May 2024 – Leading European student accommodation platform Nido, a portfolio company of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments), has announced the appointment of Carlo Matta as CEO to drive the business as it accelerates its growth strategy.

The appointment follows the recent acquisition of Nido by CPP Investments and signals a new phase in the Company's expansion plans. Carlo, with his extensive experience in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and real estate spanning over 25 years, is poised to leverage Nido's strong brand and operational excellence to drive growth. He will expand the Company's investment and development focus in target markets, building on the well-established management business.

Carlo commented: "Nido presents an exceptional opportunity to combine its strong brand and operational excellence with development and investment, driving the business to new heights. I am thrilled to embark on this journey with such a talented team, supportive shareholder, and strong capital backing. I look forward to expanding the existing Nido team and forging new partnerships, to propel Nido's growth in our core target markets of Germany, Italy, and Spain."

In his new role, Carlo will work closely with Darren Gardner, who will continue to lead operational activities across the expanded platform, ensuring a seamless transition and alignment with Nido's core values of community, wellbeing, sustainability, design, and technology.

Nido is currently growing the team, with a number of open positions in development management, portfolio management, investment activities, and support functions to be based out of Amsterdam.

Darren Gardner, COO of Nido, said: "We are delighted to welcome Carlo to guide the company in the next step of our exciting evolution. His experience in development, investment, and acquisition activities in Europe will be instrumental as we look to expand the portfolio and capitalise on the integration of these activities. Nido remains committed to delivering exceptional service to its partners and customers, and will continue to prioritise its people, brand, and core values across all locations."

Carlo's previous role as President of CA Ventures' European business, where he successfully directed the business into new markets such as Spain, Italy, Ireland, and the UK, has equipped him with the skills and knowledge to lead this next phase of expansion for Nido. During his six-year tenure at CA Ventures, Carlo spearheaded the development of 4,500 PBSA beds and the management of 6,000 beds across continental Europe and the UK, demonstrating his ability to drive growth initiatives across the continent.

Carlo's other notable roles include Managing Director at Hines Europe, where he led Hines' Pan- European office development fund, and CEO of Actis portfolio company Laurus Development Partners.