Housing guru joins the board

GED LUCAS

FIRST Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) has appointed a new chairman to lead the board of non-executive directors in steering the strategic direction of the organisation for the next three years.

Ged Lucas will take up the reins from Bernadette Callaghan who is stepping down from the role which she has held since 2014.

FCHO said Mr Lucas will bring a wealth of experience in housing, planning, regeneration, economic development, environment and community development to the board, having worked in local government for much of his career.

He has served on numerous boards within the housing sector and currently has his own consultancy firm. He has also worked on various elements of the Greater Manchester devolution agenda.

FCHO said he is well-placed to work with chief executive Cath Green to ensure FCHO plays its part in bringing the benefits of devolution to customers.

Speaking about his appointment, Mr Lucas said: "I am delighted to be given this opportunity.

"I have a vision of the kind of organisation I would like FCHO to become - to be a top class provider of good quality homes and a major influence within the communities it serves."

Mrs Green added: "I'm excited that Ged will be joining the FCHO family and congratulate him. He brings a huge range of experience and skills and I am looking forward to working with him to take our joint vision for FCHO to the next level."