Vivify strengthens executive leadership team

Technology-enabled school lettings operator Vivify, based in Manchester, has appointed Katie Winstanley as chief operating officer.

Katie joins from Morson Group, where she was group HR director, bringing extensive experience in organisational transformation, operational excellence and business growth. 

A Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, she has led large-scale business integration programmes and developed high-performing leadership teams throughout her career.

In her new role, Katie will lead Vivify’s operational delivery, people strategy, customer experience and business transformation, supporting the company’s continued expansion across the UK.

Katie said: “Russell and I met a number of years ago and from my first conversations with him, it was clear that Vivify is building something genuinely special. 

“The combination of commercial ambition, technology-led innovation and a clear social purpose is incredibly compelling.

“I’m excited to join Russell, Steph and team at such an important stage of the company's journey. 

“My focus will be on strengthening our operations, investing in our people and building the systems, capability and leadership that allow Vivify to continue scaling while delivering an exceptional experience for every school, customer and colleague.

“Vivify has already built an outstanding reputation, and I’m looking forward to working alongside the team to help shape the next chapter of the business.”

Katie’s appointment reflects Vivify's continued investment in its executive leadership team, strengthening the business as it expands nationally and continues to invest in technology, operational excellence and customer experience.

Russell Teale, founder and chief executive of Vivify, added: “We’re incredibly pleased to welcome Katie to Vivify. 

“Over the last few years we’ve been intentional about building the right leadership team for the future of the business. 

“Steph has built a finance function capable of supporting significant growth, and Katie now joins us to lead the operational excellence that will underpin everything we do.

“We’ve built a business that has grown quickly because of an exceptional team, an ambitious vision and an unwavering focus on delivering for schools. 

“The next chapter is about scaling that success without losing what makes us different.

“Katie brings exactly the experience we need. 

“She has an outstanding track record of leading transformation, developing leaders and building organisations that can scale successfully. 

“Just as importantly, she shares our values and our belief that commercial success and social impact go hand in hand. 

“I know she'll play a pivotal role in helping us achieve our ambitions over the coming years.”

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