Independent Non-Executive Chair for Cornwall Housing

Help lead the next phase of transformation for social housing in Cornwall

About Us

Cornwall Housing Limited (CHL) is seeking to appoint a new Independent Non-Executive Chair to lead its Board from September 2026, following the planned retirement of the current Chair.

CHL is an arms-length management organisation wholly owned by Cornwall Council, responsible for the management and maintenance of more than 10,000 council homes, alongside garages, leasehold properties and community assets across Cornwall. The organisation plays a vital role in delivering safe, decent homes and strong communities.

The opportunity

Cornwall Housing is at a pivotal point in its journey. Following a period of regulatory challenge, the organisation has made significant progress, strengthened governance, refreshed leadership and secured substantial investment to improve homes and services. The focus now is on sustained delivery, consistency of performance and continued cultural and service improvement.
The incoming Chair will provide visible, confident leadership to the Board, working closely with the Managing Director, Cornwall Council and residents to ensure that ambition is translated into real and lasting change.

The role

As Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic and motivational leadership to the Board
• Ensure the highest standards of governance, regulatory compliance and assurance
• Support and challenge the executive team through a period of transformation and delivery
• Act as an ambassador for Cornwall Housing with key stakeholders, including Cornwall Council and residents
• Foster a strong, inclusive and effective Board culture

This is a non-executive role, focused on governance, oversight and leadership rather than day-to-day management.

About you

You will bring:

• Significant board-level experience, ideally as a Chair, Senior Independent Director or experienced Non-Executive Director
• A strong understanding of social housing and its regulatory environment
• Experience of leading or overseeing improvement, recovery or change in complex organisations
• Excellent influencing and relationship-building skills, including working with local authorities and diverse stakeholders
• A clear commitment to social purpose, equality, diversity and resident engagement

While candidates with a connection to the South West or Cornwall are welcomed, this is not essential for the right individual.

Time commitment & remuneration

• Approximately up to 4 days per month
• The Board meets on a quarterly basis, usually in April, July, October and January and also holds two strategic away days per year
• Remuneration: £15,000 per annum, plus reasonable expenses

Diversity

Cornwall Housing is committed to building a diverse and representative Board and warmly encourages applications from candidates who are currently underrepresented at board level, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds and those who identify as having a disability.

How to Apply

For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact Anna Jay, Managing Director, Public Leaders Appointments:  anna@publicleadersappointments.com |

Download the attached brief for further information and details of how to apply. Applications should include a CV and covering letter outlining your motivation for applying and how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.

Closing date: 1 May, 2026

Interviews: 29 & 30 June, 2026