Broadacres appoints group chief executive

Yorkshire-based housing association Broadacres Housing Association has appointed Claire Townson as its new group chief executive.

Claire will take up the role on February 1, following two years with Broadacres as director of people, digital and communications at the 6900-home organisation.

She brings more than 30 years’ experience across senior leadership and HR roles, including serving as corporate services director at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust.

Claire said: “I am thrilled and very proud to continue my career at Broadacres as the next chief executive, working with our exceptional colleagues to ensure that we continue to deliver excellent customer services, focused on what matters most to our customers.  

“With a strong executive team and an involved customer network who influence all aspects of our work, I’m excited about what the next chapter will hold. 

“Our existing strong ambitions of providing quality homes, an ever-improving customer experience and deepening our partnerships to tackle rural housing issues will be my immediate priorities.” 

Claire’s appointment follows an open and extensive selection process and a period of interim leadership by Lee Sugden, who will step down when she assumes the role.

Helen Simpson OBE, chair of Broadacres, added: “The board and I are delighted to appoint Claire as our new chief executive and are excited by the work we will be doing together. 

“She brings to the role a wealth of experience and is dedicated to the importance of social housing in sustaining rural communities and championing the voice of customers in all aspects of the services provided.

“Her commitment to North Yorkshire, strong social values and commercial acumen will see Broadacres continue to flourish under her leadership.”

Helen added: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Lee Sugden for his good work with us and wish him the very best for the future.”

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