Tuntum names new board chair

Nottingham-based housing association Tuntum has appointed Deirdre LaBassiere as chair, bringing more than 20 years’ experience in governance, leadership and community development.

Deirdre currently serves as interim director of governance at Sustain UK and was previously a board member at Nehemiah United Churches Housing Association.

She also chairs the Legacy Centre of Excellence, a Black-led cultural and community organisation, and has previously chaired Women Acting in Today’s Society, Common Purpose West Midlands and The Lunar Society.

Deirdre said: “I am delighted to become Tuntum’s chair and look forward to working with the senior management team, board colleagues and residents.

“Housing has always been more than a profession for me. 

“I believe that safe, affordable housing provides the foundation for dignity, opportunity, wellbeing and stronger communities.

“This belief has guided my work – from helping housing associations navigate regulatory challenges and organisational change, to championing community-led housing for Black and global majority women, and shaping plans for affordable homes and neighbourhood renewal in Birmingham’s Newtown community.

“I look forward to bringing these values and experiences to my work at Tuntum.”  

Deirdre’s appointment brings further housing, governance and social purpose experience to Tuntum as the organisation continues to support communities across the Midlands.

Founded in 1988 by activists from Nottingham’s Black community, Tuntum now manages more than 1600 homes for over 3000 people across 12 local authority areas.

It also provides accommodation and specialist housing services for older people, refugees, young mothers, people experiencing mental health difficulties and homeless young people.

Charmaine Simei, chief executive of Tuntum, added: “We are thrilled to announce Deirdre as our new chair.

“Her impressive career has incorporated the housing, health, charity, business and civic sectors, where she has worked alongside boards, chief executives, tenants, communities and regulators to strengthen organisations, improve services and build trust.

“As Tuntum prepares to the enter the final 12 months of our three-year Building Brighter Futures strategy and we turn our minds to the next chapter, Deirdre’s knowledge and visionary approach will be invaluable.”

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