Matt Cooney has been appointed the new group chief executive of The Community Housing Group, the organisation has revealed.
Cooney, who has had a long career in the social housing sector, will begin his new role later this month following the retirement of Ray Brookes.
Group chair Andrew Foster said: “The board is delighted to welcome Matt to the Group, and we look forward to working with him.
“We have a strong business plan to deliver, including building new 258 homes and delivering high quality services by 2021.
“We are confident that he will provide clear leadership and help the group to continue to prosper.”
Matt Cooney’s background
Cooney has held senior roles at a number of local authorities and became the chief executive of Solihull Community Housing in 2004. Under his leadership, the organisation earned a 3-star rating for excellence by the Audit Commission – the highest rating.
In 2010, he became chief executive of Asra Housing Group and successfully brought the organisation through a merger with Paragon Community Housing in 2017.
The new company, PA Housing, owns more than 23,000 homes in London, Surrey, and the Midlands.
In 2019, Cooney joined Surrey County Council as interim chief property officer with the aim of transforming its property portfolio and improving asset management outcome.
Speaking on his appointment, Cooney said: “I am delighted to be joining The Community Housing Group, and I look forward to working with colleagues, customers, and partners to build on the success of developing community housing services and develop the next chapter for group.
“My aim is to work with stakeholders to develop a reputation as a strong provider of new housing and for developing excellent services.”
Main image: Matt Cooney, Chief Executive, The Community Housing Group
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