Soho Housing Association has announced the appointment of Andrew Billany as Chair of the Board alongside CEO Barbara Brownlee.
The appointment of a Chair with a wealth of experience such as that held by Andrew Billany comes as the association embarks on the next phase of planned developments, with ambitions to deliver at least thirty new homes over the course of the next five years.
Billany’s experience includes work in senior roles in housing, local authority and the voluntary sector. He currently holds the position of Corporate Director of Housing and Community Safety at Dorset Council, as well as being a trustee of Social Justice charity Nacro. His previous roles include Managing Director of Homes for Haringey, Director of Housing at Newham Council and Chief Executive of Hornsey Housing Trust.
Speaking about Billany’s appointment, CEO of Soho Housing Association, Barbara Brownlee, said:
“I’m pleased that Andrew is on board. With such extensive experience in the housing sector, his knowledge is invaluable to us as we embark on an exciting phase of development and community building. Andrew is joining us at a crucial time for us, with the cost of living continuing to rise, our role as an affordable housing provider in the city is more vital than ever before.”
Billany himself added:
“It’s great to be a part of an organisation that is supporting those who work in the capital city, to live here to. For decades, I have grown to know Soho, starting as a Housing Officer for Westminster Council in the 1980s and coming here regularly since that time to get my hair cut, see friends and enjoy the vibrancy off the area. Seeing first-hand how businesses and residents have operated and developed over those decades has demonstrated to me just how crucial Soho’s economy is for London. Helping London’s workers remain in the city is key for the economy right now, as well as maintaining the diverse and lively community in London’s centre.”
Earlier this year, Soho Housing Association announced the beginning of its five-year development strategy, with the successful delivery of eight affordable homes since then.
