Saxonby director appointed to voluntary new role with strategic public sector housing advisory board
A director of a Shropshire home builder and affordable housing specialist has beaten stiff competition to become the latest person appointed to the key advisory group that provides advice and recommendations to Shropshire Council Landlord Services.
Andrew Copson from Shrewsbury based Saxonby is now a non-paid shadow board member for Shropshire Council Landlord Services Shadow Challenge Board (SCLSSCB). Established in 2009 and now looking after approximately 4200 properties in the county SCLSSCB’s main aims are to:
• Focus on the future of council housing
• Work with tenants to get a picture of how they feel the housing service is performing, and to suggest what action is required
• Ensure that the service works effectively to attain the government’s Decent Homes and other regulatory standards
• Ensure that the service maximises opportunities to increase and make the most of its funding, and to ensure value for money in maintaining and improving the quality of Shropshire Council’s homes.
Reporting to the chair of the board and working in conjunction with fellow board members his main responsibilities will be providing leadership for the direction and control of the service, helping to set objectives, ensuring SCLSSCB follows the statutory and regulatory obligations, develops its code of conduct, implements best practice and works within agreed budgets.
Mr Copson, who underwent a rigorous interview prior to his appointment, is also a non-executive director at The Wrekin Housing Trust, a position he has held for the past eight years and completes the full term for in October 2013. Commenting on the new role, he said: “I have worked in the industry for over 25 years holding a number of senior management roles within the housing and not-for-profit sector. I am sure that my passion for social housing combined with my private sector experience will make a valuable contribution to the operational activity, customer service and future development of SCLSSCB.”
Mal Price, portfolio holder for housing at Shropshire Council said: “We very much appreciate the support from our independent board members who offer a mixture of skills and experience. In particular, Andrew impressed us with his breadth and depth of knowledge of the housing market, which will help us to scrutinise, plan and deliver the best possible services to our customers.”
