The G15 group of housing associations has confirmed that Fiona Fletcher-Smith, group CEO of L&Q, has been appointed as the network’s next chair.
The moves comes after confirmation that current vice-chair Richard Hill (CEO of One Housing), will be joining BPHA as its new head in April.
Fiona and L&Q will become vice-chair with immediate effect.
Geeta Nanda OBE, G15 chair and CEO of MTVH, said: “I’d like to thank Richard for his contribution to G15 as vice-chair, and throughout his time leading One Housing.
“Richard has highlighted the important role members play in the social care system, and has been a great support on so many different issues.
“We wish him all the best at BPHA.”
Fiona Fletcher-Smith’s appointment as G15 vice-chair will also mean that L&Q becomes G15 chair from 3 June 2023, when MTVH’s term comes to an end.
Geeta added: “I’m thrilled Fiona and L&Q have agreed to become vice-chair now, and to take on the leadership of G15 from June.
“It’s a critical time for the sector and the people we provide homes to.
“Fiona and L&Q’s experience will be invaluable to the group, and the partners we work with, in continuing our efforts to tackle the housing crisis.”
Fiona Fletcher-Smith said: “Our sector is no stranger to challenge, but the sheer number of complex issues currently facing housing associations and our residents mean that working together is more important than ever.
“G15 members bring a broad range of skills and expertise to the table, but we are all united by a common desire to support our residents and tackle the housing crisis.
“Over the coming months, I look forward to working closely with Geeta and other G15 colleagues to ensure our voices are heard, our work is understood, and we work collaboratively for the benefit of our residents.”
During its term as G15 Chair, beginning in June 2023, L&Q will be supported by Peabody as vice-chair.
In a further update, with One Housing completing its Terms of Engagement process with the Riverside Group at the end of March, Riverside will become a member of the G15 on 1 April 2023.
Following Riverside joining the G15, members will be responsible for a combined 770,000 homes across the country.
Background: Fiona Fletcher-Smith
Fiona was appointed as the CEO of L&Q in September 2020.
With almost 30 years of experience in the housing sector, Fiona has worked in a variety of voluntary and public sector roles including advising homeless people in Dublin, housing management, development and regeneration, strategy, and policy development.
Fiona was previously L&Q’s director of Development and Sales, spearheading a £5.1bn development programme.
She also oversaw the group’s expansion beyond the south-east of England.
Prior to joining L&Q, Fiona was executive director for Development, Enterprise, and Environment at the Greater London Authority (GLA).
Fiona is the current chair of trustees at the Centre for London.
Image: Fiona Fletcher-Smith, CEO, L&Q. Credit: L&Q
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