Passing of ‘much-loved’ former Clanmil chief Clare McCarty announced

Belfast-based housing association Clanmil has announced the death of its former chief executive, describing her as a “much-loved” boss and “dear friend”. 

The death of Clare McCarty, who was chief executive of Clanmil for 37 years, was announced on social media site LinkedIn last week, with tributes pouring in from her colleagues and senior industry figures.

Carol McTaggart, current Clanmil chief executive, said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Clare’s death. Clare was highly respected within the UK housing sector, and she spent her entire career focusing on making life better for people in greatest need and her humanity transcended both her personal and professional life. 

“She had an uncompromising belief that everyone should have a great home and support to be their best and she encouraged and inspired many in their housing careers.”

The statement by Clanmil posted on LinkedIn described McCarty as a ”much-loved former group chief executive” who “gave so much to Clanmil in her 37 years” and was “our dear friend as well as our long-time colleague,” adding that staff are “devastated by this news.”

McCarty joined Clanmil in 1984, having started her career at Connswater. She stepped down as chief executive in 2021, having steered the landlord through the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Clanmil, formerly known as Royal British Legion Housing Provider, offers 6,000 homes throughout Northern Ireland.

During McCarty’s tenure as chief, she oversaw its mergers with Dungannon and District Housing Association, as well as Hearth Housing Association.

As well as leading Clanmil, McCarty was a member of the CIH Northern Ireland for many years, and was chair of CIH NI’s board from 2001 to 2003. 

She also sat on the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations board and was the first female chair of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in Northern Ireland. 

In 2007, McCarty was awarded an OBE for services to social housing in Northern Ireland. 

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Justin Cartwright, NI director for Chartered Institute of Housing, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of Clare’s passing. Clare joined us in 1980 and was a long-time supporter and a chartered member, whose commitment to our sector was unwavering.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. Clare’s passion for people and for providing good homes left an indelible mark on the housing community. She will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.“

Julie Fadden, chief executive of KDC, wrote on LinkedIn: “Such incredibly sad news. Clare was a true servant leader - always giving to others, which defined her whole life - whether at home or in work she gave everything.”

Diana Fitzsimons, an urban planning and development adviser, wrote: “I’m really shocked at this dreadful news. Clare and I were pioneers in female membership of RICS in NI way back in the day. I admired everything she did in her career and in her personal life. She was such a caring person and very professional in her work. Heartfelt condolences to her family and friends and all at Clanmil.”

Ian Beadle, chief executive at National Residential Landlords Association, wrote: “Absolutely desperate news. I enjoyed my engagements with Clare when I worked in Northern Ireland. A great and talented lady. Sending sincere condolences.”

Cameron Watt, chief executive at Alpha Housing, wrote: “Clare was an inspirational leader of great integrity and talent. She made NI a better place, driven by her deep commitment to fairness and social justice. It was a privilege to work alongside Clare at NIFHA where she contributed hugely. Sincere condolences to her family, friends and all who knew her.”

CIH chief executive Gavin Smart also added his condolence: “Clare was a dedicated professional, deeply connected to the social purpose of our sector and passionate about the difference we make as housing professionals. She has undoubtedly left a lasting legacy, having contributed to so many communities across the housing sector,” he said.

“Our thoughts are with Clare’s family at this difficult time and with all in the sector who had the honour of knowing Clare.”