Ocean Housing completes major Board succession programme

Ocean Housing has appointed a Designate Chair and a Senior Independent Director as part of a planned Board succession process.

The appointments have been made ahead of the end of the current Chair Andie Smith’s tenure in December 2026.

The move reflects the housing association’s commitment to strong governance since simplifying their previous group structure back in April.

The succession process has been carefully planned to ensure the organisation maintains momentum against their strategic objectives.

Alan Brunt has been appointed Designate Chair and will work closely with Andie ahead of succeeding her when her term of office ends.

To support this planned transition, Alan has stepped down as Chair of the Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee, with John Brace taking on the role.

Andie Smith said: “After nine years as a non-executive director at Ocean, I have reached the end of my term and so, sadly, for me it is time to move on. Ocean has changed immeasurably but I am proud to say that one thing at least remains the same, which is the reason I joined in the first place, and that is the commitment to provide quality affordable homes for people in Cornwall.

It has been a privilege to have been part of Ocean and to have worked with such a fabulous group of officers, tenants and fellow board members. Whilst I will miss it very much, I know that I am leaving it in the expert hands of Jitinder as CEO and Alan as Chair”.

Mike Owen has been named as the Senior Independent Director, further strengthening Ocean Housing’s Board leadership structure and governance protocols.

The succession process has also seen Chris Weston appointed as the new Chair of Gilbert & Goode.

Chris will also serve on the Ocean Housing Board, bringing valuable experience and insight across both organisations as Gilbert & Goode continues to deliver high-quality homes that meet the needs of local people and communities.

The non-executive appointments form part of a broader approach to succession planning that includes creating opportunities for customers to play a greater role in governance.

This approach has already seen Karen Littler, Ocean’s tenant Board member, appointed Chair of the Customer Services Committee as part of the organisation’s new governance structure.

As part of this ongoing commitment, Ocean Housing recently launched its Tenant Board Member Development Programme, designed to support residents who are interested in developing their understanding of governance and exploring future board membership opportunities.

The programme provides participants with insight into the role and responsibilities of board members and the skills needed to contribute effectively at a strategic level.