Inside Housing – News – Scottish landlord reveals new CEO

Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association (LSHA) has promoted Lowri Richards to the top position of chief executive.

Lowri Richards named new chief executive of Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association

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Scottish landlord reveals new chief executive #ukhousing

The Scottish social landlord announced earlier this month that she would take up the role of president of the organisation.

Ms Richards has over a decade of experience in social housing, including almost three years as Tenant Engagement and Support Manager at LSHA.

The organisation said she had demonstrated the “necessary skills, abilities and attributes” to ensure “the continued delivery of high-quality services”.

Ms Richards also held a number of positions during her seven-year employment with Sanctuary Group.

Commenting on her appointment, she said: “I am honoured to be able to have a positive impact on housing development in Skye and Lochalsh.

“The sector faces many challenges, but there are also great opportunities in the coming years.

“I look forward to working with the board and staff to listen to the community, meet local needs and improve outcomes for tenants.”

Ian Young, chairman of the LSHA, said he was “delighted” to welcome Richards to her new position.

“Lowri demonstrated throughout the recruitment process that she had all the qualifications and skills required for this position,” he added.

“The Board looks forward to working with Lowrim in this new role to grow the association and continue to provide high-quality homes and services to our tenants.”

Ms Richards takes up the leadership role at a challenging time for the sector in Scotland and across the UK.

Homes for Scotland published a report this month on an “alarming” 20 per cent fall in the market share of small and medium-sized builders.

According to the Developers Association, SMEs now account for less than 20% of new home sales each year in Scotland, down from 40% in 2017.

The report revealed “worrying falls” in the number of small and medium-sized housebuilders in Scotland, their market share and the value of the homes they build.

Analysis of new build sales by Registers of Scotland has found that average annual new build sales by SMEs have fallen from 3,400 between 2006 and 2018 to 1,800 between 2019 and 2023.

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