Gentoo appoints new group chair

Sunderland-based housing association Gentoo has appointed Claire Long as group chair, succeeding Emily Cox MBE at the end of the month.

Claire has served on the Gentoo board since 2020 and currently chairs its risk and audit committee. 

She is finance director at Newcastle-based law firm Muckle LLP and previously held senior finance roles at Procter & Gamble. 

A chartered accountant, she brings experience in strategy, governance and acquisitions.

Claire said: “I’m delighted to be appointed as Gentoo’s new group chair at such an important and exciting time for the organisation. 

“Having served on the board since 2020, I have seen the genuine passion that exists across Gentoo to provide safe, affordable and high‑quality homes for the people of Sunderland. 

“As we deliver on our ambitious ten‑year strategy, my focus will be on maintaining strong governance, supporting our growth plans, and ensuring our customers continue to shape the services we provide. 

“I would like to thank Emily for her exceptional leadership and the lasting legacy she leaves. 

“I am honoured to take on this role and to work alongside colleagues, customers and partners as we continue our journey to become the best provider of social homes in the country.” 

Claire takes up the role as Gentoo delivers its ten-year corporate strategy to become the best provider of social homes in the country.

Emily steps down after seven years on the board, including three as chair, during which the organisation strengthened governance and secured a C1 grading under the Regulator of Social Housing’s consumer standards.

Emily added: “This is a brilliant organisation, full of brilliant people who care deeply about our customers. 

“In the last three years we have spent £1 million every week in Sunderland on our existing homes. 

“We have developed a bold ten-year strategy to build many more, much needed high-quality homes. 

“We have solid finances and our customers are at the heart of all our decisions.

“I leave this organisation with a strong board, an outstanding executive team and a talented new chair. 

“It is difficult to put into words what Gentoo means to me, but I am extremely proud of this organisation and everything it has achieved.” 

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