Chief of Cumbria-based RP picked to lead organisation

A network for smaller housing associations run by the National Housing Federation (NHF) has appointed a new chair.

Helena Evans, chief executive of Cumbria-based Westfield Housing Association, will take over as chair of the NHF’s Smaller Housing Association Network. 

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Source: Helena Evans

The new chair, Helena Evans

The network, which meets every three months to share sector insights affecting smaller providers, is open to NHF members who own or manage less than 2,000 homes.

Evans has worked in the housing sector for almost 30 years. She is also a board member for Phoenix Community Housing, a not-for-profit housing association in south London.  

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Evans said: “I am very passionate about the positive contribution that smaller housing associations make to communities and residents’ lives each day.”

“In my new role I hope to help the NHF represent members’ views on a range of national issues and look forward to working with different people to promote the sector’s amazing work, share good practice, encourage collaboration, and celebrate our achievements.”

The NHF have said that the start date of the new chair is yet to be confirmed. 

Evans replaces previous network chair Jesse Fajemisin, director of busness operations at Surrey-based association Mount Green.