Vistry Group has announced the appointment of Rob Woodward CBE as non-executive chair of the board, to succeed Greg Fitzgerald, who is currently executive chair.
This comes into effect from the conclusion of the Group’s AGM on 13 May 2026. Fitzgerald will also be retiring as CEO but will continue to serve as CEO for up to 12 months, or until a successor is appointed.
Woodward has served as non-executive senior independent director of the company and chair of its Nomination Committee since joining the board in May 2024, following a “robust” search process.
Vistry Group’s press release said: “Rob was appointed to undertake an enhanced role providing clear and detailed oversight on governance matters, while also engaging with investors and other stakeholders, to lead on the recruitment of new non-executive directors and to oversee the CEO succession process.”
Woodward has extensive experience across both the public and private sectors, with longstanding experience of FTSE businesses. This includes service as the chief executive officer of STV Group plc for over ten years. He is currently the chair of Ebiquity plc.
In line with UK Corporate Governance Code recommendations, from 13 May 2026, Woodward will retire as a member of the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee but retain the role of chair of the Nomination Committee.
The Vistry board has also appointed Rowan Baker as senior independent director, also with effect from the conclusion of the AGM on 13 May 2026. He has been a non-executive director since May 2022 and will remain chair of the Audit Committee.
Woodward commented: “I am delighted to be appointed chair of Vistry Group and welcome the appointment of Rowan as my replacement as senior independent director. I very much look forward to continuing to work with the board and the senior management team as we focus on rebuilding value by maximising the strengths and opportunities from the Group’s mixed-tenure partnership model.
“With the scale of the Social and Affordable Homes Programme 2026-2036 and the business’ track record of building one in seven of the country’s affordable homes last year, Vistry has a key role to play in delivering the homes this country needs.”
