Hightown hires new chief financial officer from Origin

Hightown Housing Association has appointed Mark Farrar as its new chief financial officer. 

He will step into the role on 10 November following the departure of David Skinner, who retired in August after 16 years in the position.

Hightown’s new recruit is currently executive director of finance, technology, data and change at Origin Housing, which provides social homes across North London and Hertfordshire. The landlord became a subsidiary of Places for People in April 2024.

Prior to this, Farrar was executive director of resources at Thrive Homes, head of finance at housing association Bpha and head of finance and branded telecoms at Tesco.

Farrar said: “I am delighted to be joining the team at Hightown. The role represents a huge opportunity for me to improve the lives of individuals and families in an area I grew up in and build on the great work of my predecessor. Working with Hightown’s executive leadership team and board, I look forward to helping shape and deliver Hightown’s corporate strategy.”

Hightown manages over 9,300 homes across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.

Maxine Espley, chief executive at Hightown, said: “Mark brings a wealth of experience from both within and beyond the housing sector and I am delighted he will be joining us as CFO. Alongside the executive leadership team, Mark will play a pivotal role in enabling Hightown to continue to achieve our strategic objectives, to deliver much-needed social housing and care and support services, as well as investing in our existing homes and enhancing our customer offer.”

Tony Blewitt, Hightown’s interim executive director of finance, will continue to provide senior financial support until Farrar commences in post.