University Partnerships Programme (UPP), a provider of on campus student accommodation infrastructure and support services in the UK, has announced the appointment of Richard Bienfait as Chief Financial Officer of UPP Group Limited.

Richard was previously Chief Executive Officer of Affinity Water Limited, the largest water only supplier in the UK, a position he held for five years from 2010. Prior to this, Richard worked for 13 years at Veolia Water UK Limited, part of Veolia Environnement SA.

During his time at Veolia Water UK Limited, Richard held a number of senior financial positions, including Chief Financial Officer for six years. In this role, he helped grow the turnover of the business from £250 million to £600 million; led the sale of Veolia’s interest in Southern Water in 2006 and the acquisition of non-regulated contracts from Thames Water and United Utilities in 2007 and 2010 respectively; and managed the refinancing of £200 million of debt at Three Valleys Water, the debut long dated Sterling bond issue for Veolia Environnement SA.

Richard is an economics graduate from the University of Exeter, a Chartered Accountant and an associate member of the Association of Corporate Treasurers.

Sean O’Shea, Group Chief Executive Officer said:

“We are delighted Richard is joining UPP at such an exciting time for the Group, particularly following our new long term partnership with the University of Hull. He brings with him extensive experience in financial and strategic management gained across leading organisations and I am confident he will make a major contribution to our future development.”

Commenting on his appointment, Richard said:

“I am looking forward to working closely with the teams at UPP, helping to deliver on its strategic plan and creating value for all our stakeholders.”