Elly Hoult wins vice-presidential election on promise to promote professionalism

Elly Hoult has won the Chartered of Housing vice-presidential election.

The Peabody chief operating officer won 33 per cent of the votes cast, coming in ahead of three other candidates in a poll of the institute’s 17,000 members.

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Elly Hoult, chief operating officer, Peabody, will become CIH vice president in October and then president next year

The win means Hoult, who recently joined Housing Today’s roster of columnists, will by convention take over as president of the institute in October 2024 following her year as vice-president.

Hoult, who worked for Notting Hill Genesis before joining Peabody in January, pledged in her manifesto to boost professionalism in the housing sector amid new legislation to strengthen the regulation of social landlords.

She said: “I’m committed to challenging the status quo and driving continuous improvement, understanding that professionalism lies at the core of delivering exceptional service and outcomes.

“Encouraging CIH members to embrace the new era of regulation, I will foster a culture of growth and advancement ensuring professionalism becomes a driving force in all aspects of our work.”

Hoult also pledged to ensure the CIH is at “the forefront of promoting diversity.” Hoult set up the CIH Futures initiative in 2017 to represent housing professionals under 30 years of age.

>>See also: Time for ministers to enforce boardroom diversity? Meet Lara Oyedele

Hoult will take over as vice-president in October from Jill Haley, who will move up to replace Lara Oyedele as president for 12 months. Haley has worked in senior roles at 30,000-home housing association Gentoo and at Sunderland Council during a 41-year career.

Hoult received more votes than Alysha Burrell, founder of life coaching organisation Building Future Leaders and board member of Southdown Housing Association, Eileen Patterson, board member of Northern Ireland housing association Clanmil and Hony Premlal, chair of Eldon housing association.

Elly Hoult’s manifesto statement in full

“I’m thrilled to put myself forward as a candidate for the role of vice president of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH). With a passion for professionalism, dedication to fostering young talent, commitment to advancing the housing sector, and a strong advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), I believe I possess the qualities needed to take on this role.

Having started my career as a supported housing officer and currently serving as the chief operating officer at Peabody, I am deeply committed to the growth and development of our professional body. As vice president, I would proudly serve as an ambassador for CIH, leveraging my long-standing involvement with the organisation throughout my career.

I strongly believe in boosting professionalism in the sector and support the government’s drive to improve standards for residents. I’m committed to challenging the status quo and driving continuous improvement, understanding that professionalism lies at the core of delivering exceptional service and outcomes. Encouraging CIH members to embrace the new era of regulation, I will foster a culture of growth and advancement ensuring professionalism becomes a driving force in all aspects of our work.

Recognising the importance of nurturing young talent, I played a pivotal role in founding CIH Futures and will passionately champion its expansion. It is crucial to provide young members with platforms to connect, learn, and grow within the housing profession. As vice president, I will empower young professionals to become the leaders of tomorrow, offering mentorship, guidance, and support. Their fresh perspectives and innovative solutions will help our sector meet current and future challenges for the benefit of residents and communities.

 I will foster a culture of growth and advancement ensuring professionalism becomes a driving force in all aspects of our work

I’ll be a champion and an advocate for housing professionals, amplifying their voice and utilising their experience and expertise. Working alongside the governing board chair, I’ll actively seek to shape and influence housing policies that prioritise the needs and rights of residents. Leveraging my position as a speaker and spokesperson at CIH and other events, I’ll address the challenges faced by the sector and develop solutions in partnership with our members.

I firmly believe in the values of inclusivity and diversity, which are integral to CIH’s core principles. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. I firmly believe that a diverse and inclusive profession leads to better outcomes for residents and communities. As vice president, I’ll ensure that CIH remains at the forefront of promoting diversity, breaking down barriers and fostering a truly inclusive housing sector for all. I am dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and advocating for policies and practices that advance social justice within the profession.

In conclusion, my passion for professionalism, dedication to fostering young talent, commitment to advancing the housing sector, and unwavering support for equality, diversity, and inclusion make me an ideal candidate for the role of vice president of CIH. With your support, I am confident in my ability to fulfil the criteria outlined and contribute to the continued success and growth of CIH and its members.”