New Chairs Appointed at CIH UK & Ireland
John Hannigan, the CEO of Circle Voluntary Housing Association and former chair of CIH Ireland’s Advisory Board, has been appointed as the chair of CIH’s governing board at the organisation’s sixtieth annual meeting on Monday 14 October. John takes over from Geraldine Howley OBE, who has served on CIH’s board since 2015 and held the position for the past two terms. Aileen Evans has been appointed for a second term, and Hannah Harvey retired from the governing board.
Upon stepping down from her role, Geraldine Howley expressed, “It’s been an honour to serve as chair of the CIH Governing Board for the last six years. As a committed housing professional, being asked to take up the role was a real career highlight. I am delighted with the progress that CIH has made during my time as chair, and I am pleased to hand over to John with the organisation in such a good place. John is a committed housing professional and a long-standing member of CIH, and I know he will do a fantastic job.”
John expressed his gratitude, “I’m honoured to take up the position as chair of the Chartered Institute of Housing’s governing board. I’m excited to work with the board to navigate the evolving landscape, collaborate with stakeholders on the issues that matter, and seize opportunities that will deliver additional value for our members.”
John Hannigan has been a long-standing trustee of CIH, stepping down as chair of CIH’s audit and risk committee (ARC) to take up the position as chair of the governing board. CIH’s ARC offers strategic advice to the board on risk, compliance, and effectiveness of CIH’s financial governance. The governing board was pleased to announce a surplus for the fifth successive year, attributing this financial progress to excellent organisational performance and a generous legacy from Mr Tony Babbage.
At the annual meeting, Elly Hoult took over the role of CIH president from Jill Murray, and Julie Haydon was appointed as CIH’s vice president. Additionally, three new governing board trustees were approved: Joseph Carr, Vanessa Harwood-Whitcher, and Paul Smith. Gavin Smart, CIH’s chief executive, commended Geraldine Howley for her dedication and welcomed John as the new chair designate, expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming collaborations.
Meanwhile, Kath Cottier, the CEO of Fold Housing, has been approved as the chair of CIH Ireland’s Advisory Board. With over 20 years of experience in the Irish Housing Association sector, Kath brings expertise in leading development, property, and housing teams.
Commenting on her appointment, Kath expressed, “I have benefited greatly from my membership of the CIH, which has supported my professional development. This underpins my commitment to the CIH as the new chair, and I’m excited about growing our offer in Ireland.”
Congratulating Kath, John Hannigan stated, “I’m pleased to be handing the leadership of CIH Ireland’s board to Kath’s inspiring expertise. I look forward to our continued work together to support growth and excellence for our sector and particularly our members.”
Welcoming Kath into her new role, Caroline Moloney, the national director for Ireland, expressed delight in Kath’s leadership and thanked John for his significant contribution to the board.
Overall, the appointments of John Hannigan and Kath Cottier bring fresh perspectives and leadership to CIH, signalling exciting developments and growth for the housing sector in the UK and Ireland.