Yugo appoints Abi Kannan as Chief Technology Officer to drive global growth and innovation

October 1, 2025 – London/New York – Yugo, the first global student housing brand and operator, today announces the appointment of Abi Kannan as Chief Technology Officer (CTO), strengthening its position at the forefront of student living innovation.

Based in London with a global remit, Abi will join Yugo’s Senior Leadership Team to lead its worldwide technology strategy and guide its long-term plan for growth and scale. He will oversee the development of Yugo’s internal systems and external consumer-facing platforms, while harnessing the practical applications of Generative AI and emerging technologies. This will play a critical role in delivering seamless customer experiences, strengthening the consumer proposition and unlocking new commercial opportunities.

Abi brings significant senior technology leadership experience with consumer facing companies, most recently as Chief Digital & Information Officer at leading hybrid hospitality company edyn. Here he led end-to-end technology delivery and digital transformation across edyn’s European hotel portfolio.

Prior to this he delivered award-winning transformation programmes at Sainsbury’s, where he held the role of Director of Product, Technology & Engineering, improving efficiency for 180,000 colleagues globally. Abi also worked with Home Retail Group (owner of Argos, Homebase and Habitat brands), where he shaped and led Argos’s market-leading ‘Fast Track’ digital proposition and restructured major outsourcing partnerships to drive greater efficiency across the business.    

This appointment follows Yugo’s recent acquisition of Campus Advantage, an industry leading student housing property management business and real estate investment management firm in the U.S., as it continues to extend its operational capabilities and expand globally.

Joe Persechino, Chief Operating Officer, Yugo commented:

“Abi’s appointment marks an exciting step forward for Yugo as we further invest in technology to enhance every aspect of student living. His proven track record in driving large-scale digital transformation and delivering innovative technology solutions for leading consumer brands globally makes him an outstanding addition to our senior team.

As we continue to scale globally and elevate the student living experience, Abi’s leadership will be instrumental in harnessing new technologies and strengthening our digital proposition for students, partners and clients.”

Abi Kannan, Chief Technology Officer, Yugo commented:

“I’m delighted to join Yugo as it continues to set new benchmarks for student living. Yugo’s growth and clear commitment to innovation make this an incredibly exciting time for the business, and I look forward to shaping a technology strategy that not only supports our expansion plans but also secures future-ready tech solutions for how we serve students worldwide. By embracing the latest advancements in AI and digital capabilities, we can set new standards for the industry and deliver meaningful value.”