Bernicia appoints new executive director

North East housing provider Bernicia has appointed Jenny Allinson as executive director of communities as it prepares to launch its new corporate strategy.

The appointment comes as Bernicia finalises its 2026–31 strategy, Supporting Opportunity, which focuses on unlocking the potential of individuals, communities and the wider North East through targeted investment and partnership working.

With plans to invest more than £425 million into homes, services, people and communities, Bernicia aims to deliver what it calls ‘The Bernicia Effect’ – a commitment to driving social and economic growth across the region.

Jenny said: “I am thrilled to be joining Bernicia’s executive team at such an exciting time of potential and possibility. 

“Our objectives and commitments in the coming years are rightly ambitious and put to work our incredible range of skills and expertise, as well as our financial capacity. 

“This new role reinvigorates our focus on engaging and empowering people to take advantage of the opportunities we will help create. 

“Through this role I am delighted to have my own opportunity to help achieve The Bernicia Effect, for the benefit of tenants, customers, communities and the region.”

Bernicia is one of the North East’s largest housing providers, supporting over 60,000 residents, employing 650 people, and generating an annual turnover of £100 million.

John Johnston, chief executive of Bernicia, added: “The board and I are delighted to welcome Jenny into the executive team. 

“As director of corporate governance at Bernicia, Jenny also led our employability and wider CSR work. 

“She has grown the reach, range and impact of initiatives that have supported thousands of people into training and employment.

“The new role of executive director of communities will combine our housing services and community support ventures, targeting investments and resources in ways that will achieve the greatest impact.

“We look forward with determination and drive, to create opportunities that improve people’s quality of life.

“By understanding our neighbourhoods and listening to our customers, we know some face barriers to living well, achieving their potential and feeling connected to their community.

“Extending her expertise, passion and creativity to the design and delivery of housing services will create more opportunities to engage and support people to live well in their homes, their neighbourhood and within their community.”

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