Our Board

Our Board is the governing body of the association and conducts its business in accordance with its rules (National Housing Federation (NHF), Model Rules 2015), and the regulatory requirements currently overseen by the Homes & Communities Agency. 

The Board is responsible for our overall mission, direction and strategy.

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.