Hightown has appointed Sean Hughes as Executive Director of Homes, a 12-month interim role he will commence on 20 October.
Sean will provide executive-level leadership across the association’s assets, repairs and landlord health and safety teams. His remit includes spearheading the development of a new asset management strategy, building a customer-focused operating model and leading a transformation programme to support its delivery.
An experienced executive, Sean has worked in the social housing sector for 30 years, holding a variety of senior positions within housing associations and local authorities. His recent roles have included Executive Director of Operations at Salvation Army Homes, leading the asset management, building health and safety, customer service, supported and general needs housing teams. He joins Hightown following a consultancy assignment with Slough Borough Council.
His appointment reflects Hightown’s renewed commitment to strengthening its core landlord services and enhancing its customer offer. Natalie Sturrock, Hightown’s existing Executive Director of Housing, will be focusing on leading the development of the association’s customer strategy, enhancing customer data and insight, amplifying the voice of the customer and creating opportunities to increase community impact.
Sean Hughes commented:
“I am delighted to be joining Hightown, I am really looking forward to working with our customers, colleagues, Executive Team and Board to achieve the organisation’s ambitions and reaffirm our commitment to providing great homes and great services.”
Maxine Espley MBE, Hightown Chief Executive, commented:
“We’re excited to welcome Sean, who brings a wealth of strategic and operational knowledge to Hightown and extensive experience of designing and delivering services in an evolving legislative and regulatory environment, ensuring that strong outcomes for customers are at the centre of his approach.
“His leadership will be instrumental in driving forward our ambitions to ensure our homes remain safe, sustainable and fit for the future. This strategic change to our Executive Leadership Team marks an important step in our journey to become a truly customer-led organisation.”
