New leadership unveiled at The Wrekin Housing Group

Shifnal resident Wayne Gethings will become the new group chief executive with immediate effect.

Anne Ward will be retiring as group chair later this month when Desmond Hudson, who is Oswestry-based, will take on the role.

Anne said: "Following a highly competitive process I am delighted to announce that Wayne has been appointed as the new group chief executive.

"Wayne brings huge enthusiasm and energy to the role and a wealth of experience within the group having previously served as interim group chief executive, as well as in working with local and sector partners in the communities the group serves. I know that Wayne will continue to work hard and do his very best to deliver The Wrekin Housing Group's objectives.

"Coinciding with Wayne's appointment it is with great pleasure that I can also announce that Desmond Hudson will be taking over from me as group chair later this month. I have had a hugely enriching experience chairing The Wrekin Housing Group and I take personal pride in all that has been achieved during my tenure as chair. It is with great pleasure that as I retire from this role and I relocate to London that it is in the full knowledge that the group is in a sound position to meet its objectives of serving communities and significantly continuing to help solve the affordable housing shortage."

Wayne said: "I am delighted to have been appointed as the new group chief executive. I relish the opportunity to build upon my experience with the organisation and in driving forward the next strategic phase of the group. I look forward to meeting our tenants and customers, and continuing to build strong relationship with our key delivery partners."

Des said: "It is a great privilege and honour to become chair of The Wrekin Housing Group. Anne, the rest of the board and our executive team have led the organisation with great skill and wisdom to secure a sound financial and governance footing for the group. It is with a sense of great anticipation that we move into the next phase of developing the group and refining our services so that we can continue and develop the significant contribution the group makes for our tenants, users, the region and the wider community."

The Wrekin Housing Group has its headquarters in Telford with offices and operations across Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire and Staffordshire.

The group is made up of The Wrekin Housing Trust, which provides over 12,000 homes for affordable rent and has plans to increase stock to 16,000 over the next five years. Specialist care and supported housing provider Choices, social enterprises Fuse and The Furniture Scheme as well as The Shropshire Housing Alliance which provides advice and support to those in housing need.