New year, new look

In the blink of an eye, we are suddenly in the new financial year. Where did the last one go?

I  thought it was a good time to reflect on where we are as a sector. As commentators and all who work in the sector know, there are past and recent events that have had a significant impact: ten years ago the near insolvency of Cosmopolitan Housing Association led to changes in legislation and regulation to further safeguard residents and the homes they live in. Seven years ago the tragedy of Grenfell that has marked all our lives has also led to changes, many implemented in advance of legislation and the impending regulation changes. One question; why it has taken so long? And most recently the tragic death of Awaab Ishak brings into sharp focus the importance of listening and acting on what customers are saying, sound investment decisions, and ensuring that data and processes are robust.

The sector faces many challenges as it enters the new financial year. Some say this is the most challenging time they have seen. There is no doubt that there is a lot to do to ensure that the tragic events of the past provide a real catalyst for change and the sector works hard on regaining the confidence of the public and politicians. But we must not forget the positive impact that the provision of safe, warm, decent and affordable housing has had and continues to have on millions of lives. Those who work in the sector do so for a reason, to do a great job for their customers.  So as we move into this year, anticipating the new Social Housing Bill and the changes in regulation that will follow, a plea – that we do not return to the ‘tick-box’ culture of yesteryear.

The focus has to be on improving stock – both internal and external, ensuring that the building of much-needed homes continues, that investment in the green agenda is not ‘pushed to the right’, and that customers really are at the heart of decision-making.

As I look forward to the coming year there are some changes within Altair that are also worthy of mention. We have continued to grow year-on-year since 2011 when we started and we are ambitious to continue this growth, which has provided the impetus for change. I am delighted to announce new, exciting roles for Michael Appleby and Matt Carroll who become Managing Directors of Altair Consulting and Property respectively and are supported by their excellent teams who have all contributed to what Altair is today.

We have a strong and proud track record of supporting, challenging and developing thinking in the sectors we support. Looking to the future, whether it be delivering transformation programmes or achieving net zero, supporting development programmes, preparing for consumer regulation or developing more commercial approaches to procurement (to name but a few of our services), we are well placed to continue providing advice and support to our clients in this increasingly complex operating environment.

I will continue to lead Altair as Executive Chair and, of course, will continue working with the team and our clients on governance projects. We are planning for our next phase of growth which will be spearheaded by Michael and Matt and I am excited to work with them to achieve this.

Over the coming months we look forward to speaking to clients across the sector, but for an earlier discussion do get in touch with Michael, Matt or me.

Fiona Underwood
Executive Chair, fiona.underwood@altairltd.co.uk

Michael Appleby
Managing Director – Altair Consulting, michael.appleby@altairltd.co.uk

Matt Carroll
Managing Director – Altair Property, matt.carroll@altairltd.co.uk