Finance boss at Countryside leaves housebuilder to head to rival Barratt
Mike Scott has resigned from housebuilder Countryside in order to take up the role of chief financial officer (CFO) at UK rival Barratt Developments.
Both UK housebuilders simultaneously announced the move this morning, which sees Scott end a seven-year stint at Countryside, in which he oversaw the group’s IPO in 2016 and acquisition of Westleigh Homes in 2018.
Scott’s arrival date at Barratt will be announced “in due course” by the FTSE 100 housebuilder, but the company’s previous CFO Jessica White will step down from the board on Wednesday.
David Thomas, Barratt’s chief executive, will temporarily take over the finance function until Scott joins.
“Mike has a deep understanding of the housebuilding industry and we are delighted that he has agreed to bring his very relevant financial and operational expertise to Barratt,” said Barratt chairman John Allan.
“Mike will work closely with our experienced management team to reinforce Barratt’s position as the country’s leading housebuilder, whilst driving further value creation through a continued focus on our medium-term targets,” Allan added.
Iain McPherson, Countryside chief executive, said: “The Board of Countryside wishes to thank Mike for his hard work, commitment and significant contribution to the Group over the last seven years. We will continue to work closely with Mike to ensure a smooth transition and wish him all the best in his new role.”