NEWS HR

Ruth Cooke is stepping down as chief executive of Midlands Heart Housing Association. She is leaving after five years to join the Clarion Group as chief executive.

Hillcrest Housing Association, parent of the Hillcrest Group of Companies, has announced the appointment of Bob Sander as its new director of housing.

Rural Stirling Housing Association has appointed Donna Birrell as its new chief executive.

The UK’s largest housing association has appointed Ruth Cooke of Midland Heart as its new chief executive.

LifeCare Residences has strengthened its Food & Beverage offering at Battersea Place with the appointment of a new Hospitality and Butler Manager, Matthew Balman, who previously served the Royal Household at Buckingham Palace.

Bernadette Kenny, chief executive of the Church of England Pensions Board (CEPB), has died aged 60. Kenny joined the CEPB as chief executive in February 2011 after a career in the civil service. During her tenure, she saw through significant changes to the CEPB itself and to the National Church Institutions, a group of entities which include The Church Commissioners. A statement from the Church said the changes had ensured these institutions were well-placed to serve it for years to come.

Sunderland housing association Gentoo has appointed an interim chief executive after the sudden departure of its previous boss. David Jepson has worked within social housing for almost 30 years, including time spent as deputy chief executive at one of the largest housing associations in the country, The Riverside Group, and as interim chief executive of The Regenda Group.

A specialist nursing home has appointed an expert coordinator for its dementia friendly Market Square. The Lodge, which is based within the award-winning Buckshaw Retirement Village, Chorley, appointed coordinator Chris Durnan to oversee operations of its ‘Market Square’ which is designed especially for older residents and those with dementia.