Sheena McDonnell takes over as chair of Progress Housing Group

Sheena McDonnell has been appointed as the new chair of Progress Housing Group.

She brings with her a wealth of knowledge with her roles to date including working in housing, health, third sector giving her a broad perspective on public services and a theme of improving opportunities and wellbeing in communities.

Sheena's current role as chair of the board at Barnsley Hospital Foundation Trust and as Non-Executive Director for the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board highlights her ongoing dedication to serving and advocating for the communities she works across and in organisations with a social purpose.

She succeeds Nigel Wright in the position.

Nigel's four-year term saw the group expand its supported living offer and strengthen its community support services including the introduction of its Tenancy Sustainability Team.

The group continued to support communities, tenants, customers and colleagues in the aftermath of COVID-19, as well as the increasing pressures due to the rise of the cost of living.

Before his role as chair, Nigel was deputy group chair since 2017.

Sheena said: "I am delighted to become chair of Progress Housing Group. The group's values align closely with my own and reflect what is important to me. I look forward to working with the group's board members, colleagues and partner subsidiaries, RWP and Key Unlocking Futures, to continue to address inequity and ensure we provide high-quality and affordable homes that make a real difference to people's lives.

Nigel Wright, former Chair of Progress Housing Group, added: "I am pleased to see Sheena take on the role of chair and would like to congratulate her on her appointment. She brings excellent sector knowledge, extensive experience as a chair and an undeniable commitment to our tenants and communities.

"I am proud of how the group delivers services and homes that positively impact people’s lives and I am now looking forward to watching it continue to grow and support even more people and communities."

Jacqui De-Rose, group chief executive of Progress Housing Group added: “We warmly welcome Sheena as Chair of our Board, I look forward to working closely with her as she takes up this new role.

“I’d also like to thank Nigel for his seven years of wonderful service, support and direction as our previous chair of the board and as deputy group chair. A heartfelt thank you from us all at Progress Housing Group.”