Our Board

Our Board is the governing body of Sussex Housing and Care, responsible for our overall mission, direction and strategy, and conducts its business in accordance with its Rules and regulatory requirements. Our Board ensures we stay ahead by focusing on the future, setting us up to achieve our goals in a strong and ethical manner, putting residents at the heart of what we do. Board members also closely monitor our service performance and financial management, supported by an Audit and Risk Committee.

Mary Hope - Chair

Mary Hope - Chair

Mary’s professional life has been spent in HR, working across the public and private sectors. She established her own business as a career coach and HR Consultant with clients from housing associations, local authorities and charities. She has extensive executive recruitment with Campbell Tickell amongst others. Former recruitment panel member for Judicial Appointments Commission. Current panel member for the Property Scheme for HS2 and previously for Heathrow Third Runway and Thames ‘Super Sewer’. Board member for Eastbourne Homes Ltd, Chair of SEILL and formerly for Rosebery Housing Association. Mary joined the Board in 2016.

Robin Roberts

Robin Roberts

Robin is chief executive of Sutton Housing Society, a housing provider specialising in older people (over 55s). He is chair of Berry Brook Homes / Wokingham Homes, subsidiary housing companies of Wokingham Borough Council. Robin joined the Board in May 2019 and is chair of the audit and risk committee.

Vanda Leary

Vanda Leary

Vanda brings many years of experience in working with local authorities and commissioners of care. She is a Chartered IT Professional, an experienced programme manager and consultant with particular expertise in collaborative working and the management of change. She is also a non-executive director and trustee for Portsmouth Diocese. Vanda joined the Board in February 2023.

Mike Townsend- Vice Chair

Mike Townsend- Vice Chair

Mike is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience across a wide range of sectors, including the NHS and Higher Education. Mike has expertise in governance and risk management, and his career specialised in leading the delivery of Internal Audit and Counter Fraud programmes.  Mike joined the board in February 2023, and he was appointed Vice-Chair in February 2024.

Mike Shepherd

Mike Shepherd

Mike has many years’ experience in real estate and development and is an Investment Director at Man Global Private Markets. He was previously Group Development Director at VIVID and has held a number of senior development roles. Mike joined the Board in May 2019.

Mark Lloyd

Mark Lloyd

Mark brings 40 years of experience in the housing and social care sectors, including providing residential care for older adults. He is currently MD of RMBI Care Co, responsible for 17 care homes, all rated by the CQC as Good or Outstanding. Mark is also a long-standing Trustee of Inspire Community Trust in Bexley, supporting people with disabilities. Mark has a passion for achieving quality outcomes for tenants and residents.

Philippa Mariani

Philippa Mariani

Philippa is the Chief Executive at Think Ahead, a national mental health workforce charity that recruits and trains mental health social workers. She has extensive experience in the voluntary sector including mental health, housing, social care, and health advocacy. Philippa is a strong advocate for co-production, customer and user engagement, and amplifying the consumer voice.