Kent-based housing association, mhs homes has appointed Nigel Hopkins as its new Chair of the Board, with effect from July 2022.
Mr Hopkins has over 30 years’ director and board experience in commercial and not-for-profit sectors and brings a wealth of experience to lead mhs homes group’s strategic direction. Most recently, his experience has been within organisations that deliver real social impact to improve the lives of individuals, including serving as Chair of Instructus, a charity providing lifelong learning skills, and nine years as Non-Executive Director of housing association Places for People. Nigel has also recently been appointed to the Board of L&Q.
Upon his appointment, Mr Hopkins said:
“It is a huge privilege to become the new Chair of mhs homes group. Listening to our customers, and ensuring that our services deliver the highest levels of customer satisfaction is at the top of my agenda, as well as making sure we maximise our opportunities to provide more quality, affordable and sustainable homes for our communities.
“I am a passionate believer in the right to a decent home, and the fundamental role that a safe home plays in the sustainability and strength of our communities.
“I’m looking forward to supporting mhs homes and all of our excellent people to deliver our ambitions of the current strategic plan, and prepare for the future.”
Mr Hopkins replaces the current Chair, Richard Cooper who is stepping down this year after serving on the mhs homes group Board for six years, the maximum term under the organisation’s code of governance.
Speaking about Mr Hopkins’ appointment, mhs homes’ Chief Executive Ashley Hook said:
“I’m delighted to welcome Nigel as Chair of the mhs homes group. As Chair of our Finance and Audit Committee for the last three years, he was instrumental in the development of our three-year strategic plan and helping ensure that we have a strong and ambitious future. It has been clear from the outset that he shares our values and strong commitment to our core purpose that everyone should have a decent home. I look forward to continuing to work with him.
“I’d like to thank Richard Cooper for his outstanding contribution. Richard joined us as we underwent the biggest cultural and service delivery change in our 30-year history and his expert guidance during this time, as well as the during the COVID-19 pandemic, was invaluable.”
The organisation also welcomes the appointment of Ian Cain as Non-Executive Director. Mr Cain is currently serving as Chief Executive of SES Water and has extensive corporate and commercial experience gained over a 30-year career in senior and director roles.
mhs homes is the largest independent social landlord in the UK. They provide and manage 10 000 rented, shared ownership and leasehold homes to over 25 000 people across Kent and Medway. Over the next three years, the organisation is investing significantly in developing affordable homes, pledging to build 660 new homes and investing £175 million in existing and new homes.