Clarion has hired the former boss of water industry regulator Ofwat as a board member as it prepares for new regulation.

The 125,000-home housing association giant has announced the appointment of Rachel Fletcher who served as chief executive of Ofwat between 2018 and 2021 and before that worked for energy regulator Ofgem for more than 15 years. Fletcher, who is currently director of regulation and economics for Octopus Energy, will serve on the group’s remuneration, nomination and people Committee.

David Avery, chair of Clarion, said: “Rachel brings with her a wealth of regulatory experience from major sectors. This will be particularly welcome as we adapt to some of the changes being introduced in the new Social Housing Regulation Bill.”