HACT has announced the appointment of Sarah Thomas as the new Chair of the organisation from November 2024.
Sarah brings over 20 years of experience in strategic leadership, and change management, reinforcing HACT’s commitment to driving innovation and impact within the housing sector.
Sarah Thomas has held significant roles across the housing sector and her expertise in guiding organisations through digital change.
She brings a wealth of experience within the housing sector from her Chief Operating Officer positions at Peabody and Catalyst and being on the panel for advisors for the Housing Ombudsman.
Her current role as CEO at RHP will allow her to bring important experience from across the sector and beyond to ensure HACT continues to drive impact in the sector.
Sarah will work closely with the HACT board and team and stakeholders to further the organisation’s mission of fostering collaboration and innovation in the housing sector.
Her leadership will be instrumental in steering HACT’s strategic direction, particularly at a time when the new Government is laying the foundations for a more sustainable and impactful housing sector.
Sarah Thomas commented: “I am passionate about HACT’s ability to innovate and create impactful collaborations within the housing sector, that deliver great homes and communities with residents.
“HACT has always been at the forefront of driving positive change in housing, and I am excited to work with the team to continue this legacy, particularly in providing new and innovative ways to solve the problems that housing associations face.”
Andrew van Doorn OBE, Chief Executive of HACT, expressed his enthusiasm about Sarah’s appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Sarah as our new Chair.
“Her extensive experience in social housing and forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with HACT’s goals.
“With her passion and commitment, we are confident that HACT will continue to lead the way in housing innovation.”
Sarah is taking over from outgoing Chair Gavin Cansfield. HACT extended thanks and gratitude to Gavin, who has served as HACT’s Chair for the past 9 years.
Gavin’s commitment and support is said to have been pivotal in shaping the organisation’s success and growth. His leadership and dedication have left a ‘lasting impact’ on HACT and the wider housing sector. He will be taking up a new position as the CEO of Moat Homes.
In addition to Sarah joining the board, HACT welcomes Gemma Bell as a new trustee.
As a partner at law firm, Devonshires, Gemma brings a wealth of experience from her role which sees her providing specialist advice to housing associations, local authorities and other social housing providers on governance, constitutional, contractual and regulatory issues.
With a strong background in governance, EDI and social housing, from her role on the board of Irwell Valley Housing Association, Gemma’s expertise will be invaluable in supporting HACT’s mission. Gemma also brings important lived experience of social housing.
Gemma said: “I was drawn to the social housing sector after growing up as a social housing tenant and experiencing first-hand the positive contribution a good social housing home can have to a person.”
HACT also extend its thanks to Andrew Cowan, who has chosen to step down, for his dedicated service on the board.
Main image: DexonDee/Shutterstock
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